<?xml version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8"?><rss xmlns:dc="http://purl.org/dc/elements/1.1/" xmlns:content="http://purl.org/rss/1.0/modules/content/" xmlns:atom="http://www.w3.org/2005/Atom" version="2.0"><channel><title><![CDATA[Leighton Buzzard Shutters]]></title><description><![CDATA[We supply Perfect Fit Shutters throughout the UK, for DIY fitting. We also offer a measure and fit service, locally to Leighton Buzzard. ]]></description><link>https://www.lbshutters.co.uk/blog</link><generator>RSS for Node</generator><lastBuildDate>Fri, 12 Jun 2026 12:26:42 GMT</lastBuildDate><atom:link href="https://www.lbshutters.co.uk/blog-feed.xml" rel="self" type="application/rss+xml"/><item><title><![CDATA[It's a question balance: Cheap Own-Brand Shutters vs Premium Branded Shutters: What's the Real Difference?]]></title><description><![CDATA[When comparing own-label (unbranded) shutters with premium branded shutters, such as those from Mzuri Group companies, the differences are usually found in the materials, construction, hardware, finish quality, warranty, and after-sales support rather than the basic appearance. At first glance, they can look very similar, but the long-term performance can be quite different. Feature Own-Label Shutters Premium Branded Shutters Initial Cost Lower Higher Materials Often lower-grade hardwood,...]]></description><link>https://www.lbshutters.co.uk/post/it-s-a-question-balance-cheap-own-brand-shutters-vs-premium-branded-shutters-what-s-the-real-diffe</link><guid isPermaLink="false">6a219e7656a1da0d44a322b2</guid><pubDate>Thu, 04 Jun 2026 15:56:22 GMT</pubDate><enclosure url="https://static.wixstatic.com/media/4fbbee_8b3ee0fbb22f48b79951817551db867a~mv2.webp/v1/fit/w_1000,h_1000,al_c,q_80/file.png" length="0" type="image/png"/><dc:creator>Bob Clements</dc:creator></item><item><title><![CDATA[The Ultimate Guide to Cleaning Plantation Shutters (and Keeping Them That Way)]]></title><description><![CDATA[Plantation shutters are an investment that completely transforms a room, adding architectural interest and excellent light control. But because they have so many horizontal surfaces, they attract dust and pet hair. If you’ve been avoiding cleaning yours because the thought of wiping down every individual slat (or louvre) feels overwhelming, don't worry. Cleaning them doesn't require hours of scrubbing or expensive chemicals. In fact, using the wrong products can actually ruin them. Here is a...]]></description><link>https://www.lbshutters.co.uk/post/the-ultimate-guide-to-cleaning-plantation-shutters-and-keeping-them-that-way</link><guid isPermaLink="false">6a21504114173fc572224f9c</guid><pubDate>Thu, 04 Jun 2026 11:21:04 GMT</pubDate><enclosure url="https://static.wixstatic.com/media/4fbbee_7f34a599cea84eaab5910049290239dc~mv2.webp/v1/fit/w_1000,h_1000,al_c,q_80/file.png" length="0" type="image/png"/><dc:creator>Bob Clements</dc:creator></item><item><title><![CDATA[Why we don’t offer MDF shutters]]></title><description><![CDATA[At Leighton Shutters we believe plantation shutters should be a long-term investment that adds value, style, and durability to your home. That’s why we specialise in premium hardwood shutters rather than MDF (Medium Density Fibreboard) alternatives. While MDF shutters can appear attractive due to their lower upfront cost, there are several important differences homeowners should understand before choosing between MDF and hardwood shutters. What Are MDF Shutters? MDF shutters are manufactured...]]></description><link>https://www.lbshutters.co.uk/post/why-we-don-t-offer-mdf-shutters</link><guid isPermaLink="false">6a21a563513f7725cf1f31f8</guid><pubDate>Wed, 20 May 2026 16:27:57 GMT</pubDate><enclosure url="https://static.wixstatic.com/media/4fbbee_cfe5026d6e184b4bbdc530d6889869e5~mv2.webp/v1/fit/w_1000,h_1000,al_c,q_80/file.png" length="0" type="image/png"/><dc:creator>Bob Clements</dc:creator></item><item><title><![CDATA[Why Plantation Shutters Are One of the Biggest Home Trends of 2026]]></title><description><![CDATA[Why Plantation Shutters Are One of the Biggest Home Trends of 2026 Interior design trends come and go, but every so often a product emerges that combines style, practicality, and long-term value in a way that homeowners simply can't ignore. In 2026, plantation shutters continue to be one of the fastest-growing window furnishing choices across the UK, appearing in everything from modern new-builds to period properties. So why are shutters becoming such a popular choice, and what makes them...]]></description><link>https://www.lbshutters.co.uk/post/why-plantation-shutters-are-one-of-the-biggest-home-trends-of-2026</link><guid isPermaLink="false">6a26f3ae750b8b39abbe0d2a</guid><pubDate>Mon, 08 Jun 2026 16:59:39 GMT</pubDate><enclosure url="https://static.wixstatic.com/media/4fbbee_2c3eeabdc7a84ace8471371da1329b24~mv2.jpg/v1/fit/w_1000,h_1000,al_c,q_80/file.png" length="0" type="image/png"/><dc:creator>Bob Clements</dc:creator></item><item><title><![CDATA[Paulownia - the ecological and economical timber of choice]]></title><description><![CDATA[Paulownia is sourced from sustainable plantations and is a very fast growing tree which can be harvested every 7 or so years. It is able to regenerate from the existing roots which are left undamaged and this regrowth can occur many times. This makes it the most ecologically sound material to make shutters from, it is 100% FSC certified of course. Paulownia Wood is a beautiful warp-resistant, fine-grained knot free wood, it is light in both weight and colour making it perfect for shutters and...]]></description><link>https://www.lbshutters.co.uk/post/paulownia-the-ecological-and-economical-timber-of-choice</link><guid isPermaLink="false">6a21a7f4367ed35011d5abb2</guid><pubDate>Sun, 07 Jun 2026 16:34:15 GMT</pubDate><enclosure url="https://static.wixstatic.com/media/4fbbee_860fa5ec2dec4497a8af5e012700f5ce~mv2.webp/v1/fit/w_1000,h_1000,al_c,q_80/file.png" length="0" type="image/png"/><dc:creator>Bob Clements</dc:creator></item><item><title><![CDATA[Shutter Delivery from China  - 14 weeks by Sea vs 8 weeks by Rail]]></title><description><![CDATA[When ordering custom-made plantation shutters, over 90% are manufactured in China and then transported to the UK. Two main logistics routes dominate this supply chain: sea freight and rail freight. Both have advantages and drawbacks, and understanding them helps explain why lead times, pricing, and reliability can vary so much. 1. Sea Freight: The Traditional, Cost-Efficient Option Delivery by sea takes longer but is less costly Sea freight is still the most widely used method for...]]></description><link>https://www.lbshutters.co.uk/post/shutter-delivery-from-china-sea-vs-rail</link><guid isPermaLink="false">6a22a2d3f64e529b409c77d5</guid><pubDate>Fri, 05 Jun 2026 10:40:52 GMT</pubDate><enclosure url="https://static.wixstatic.com/media/4fbbee_870ff776e41d463b83585c23c3b1ebae~mv2.jpg/v1/fit/w_1000,h_713,al_c,q_80/file.png" length="0" type="image/png"/><dc:creator>Bob Clements</dc:creator></item><item><title><![CDATA[A Complete Guide to Patio and French Door Shutters]]></title><description><![CDATA[Bi-Fold shutters at a patio door Patio doors and French doors are among the most desirable features in modern homes. They allow natural light to flood into living spaces, provide easy access to gardens and patios, and help create a seamless connection between indoor and outdoor living. However, their large glass areas can present challenges when it comes to privacy, light control, insulation, and finding the right window covering. Plantation shutters offer a stylish and practical solution,...]]></description><link>https://www.lbshutters.co.uk/post/a-complete-guide-to-patio-and-french-door-shutters</link><guid isPermaLink="false">6a228061aaa8d363bc454f50</guid><pubDate>Fri, 05 Jun 2026 08:20:37 GMT</pubDate><enclosure url="https://static.wixstatic.com/media/4fbbee_e32fd422b31e47b6a2f109bda580d8e4~mv2.jpg/v1/fit/w_1000,h_1000,al_c,q_80/file.png" length="0" type="image/png"/><dc:creator>Bob Clements</dc:creator></item><item><title><![CDATA[Are Plantation Window Shutters blackout?]]></title><description><![CDATA[People often ask if window shutters are blackout or just how much light do they keep out. So are window shutters blackout? The simple answer is no, they are not. Shutters are pretty good and will blockout a substantial amount of light. around 80 to 90% darkness but no, they are not blackout. You can see in the picture that they are not full blackout. Larger louvres will help reduce light levels but, ff you really like the look of shutters but need your bedroom to be as dark as possible there...]]></description><link>https://www.lbshutters.co.uk/post/are-plantation-window-shutters-blackout</link><guid isPermaLink="false">6a21b006de6a4fa1b1f2ad8c</guid><pubDate>Thu, 04 Jun 2026 17:09:05 GMT</pubDate><enclosure url="https://static.wixstatic.com/media/4fbbee_4e6c094b43bc486a857d949104db1181~mv2.jpg/v1/fit/w_1000,h_1000,al_c,q_80/file.png" length="0" type="image/png"/><dc:creator>Bob Clements</dc:creator></item><item><title><![CDATA[Shutter louvre tension adjustment]]></title><description><![CDATA[Overly stiff or indeed, loose or dropping louvre blades, can unfortunately happen after using your shutters for a while. This is not a fault at all but can happen after repeated use. Fortunately, it is simple to correct and can be done by you - a callout is not needed. ​ When you open a panel, you’ll see either one or two small access hole in the side stile, this is where you loosen or tighten the louvre action.  Open the panel Open the louvres completely If there is a plastic screw cover...]]></description><link>https://www.lbshutters.co.uk/post/shutter-louvre-tension-adjustment</link><guid isPermaLink="false">6a21af2ce3c740ba3636f047</guid><pubDate>Thu, 04 Jun 2026 17:02:47 GMT</pubDate><enclosure url="https://static.wixstatic.com/media/4fbbee_f8df11b1660b48e49365393864904f35~mv2.jpg/v1/fit/w_800,h_800,al_c,q_80/file.png" length="0" type="image/png"/><dc:creator>Bob Clements</dc:creator></item><item><title><![CDATA[How to Fix Loose Cover Strips]]></title><description><![CDATA[Some shutter frames have a cover strip to the front or side or on some types of frames, both. The strips are held in place using double sided adhesive tape. Sometimes, the strips can come loose and pop out of place, this is not a manufacturing fault and is not part of your shutter guarantee. Fortunately, it is simple to correct and can be done by you - a chargeable callout is not needed. Double sided 12mm wide tape is available from multiple retailers. including Amazon ​ There are several...]]></description><link>https://www.lbshutters.co.uk/post/how-to-fix-loose-cover-strips</link><guid isPermaLink="false">6a21aa46de6a4fa1b1f2a13d</guid><pubDate>Thu, 04 Jun 2026 16:52:36 GMT</pubDate><enclosure url="https://static.wixstatic.com/media/4fbbee_69f0e2c237be4d7ea0d3619f0b0037ed~mv2.jpg/v1/fit/w_667,h_692,al_c,q_80/file.png" length="0" type="image/png"/><dc:creator>Bob Clements</dc:creator></item><item><title><![CDATA[Shutter hinge adjustment]]></title><description><![CDATA[Shutter panels open and close using hinges, the taller the panel, the more hinges there will be. They shouldn't need to be adjusted at all but if they do, here's a guide to adjusting them Hinge screws  . . . Each hinge half is held in place with three screws, it's possible (but not probable) that these become loose over time. Using a cross head screwdriver, please check that all of the screws are fully tightened from time to time - the more often you open the panels, the more frequently...]]></description><link>https://www.lbshutters.co.uk/post/shutter-hinge-adjustment</link><guid isPermaLink="false">6a21a98de3c740ba3636e40b</guid><pubDate>Thu, 04 Jun 2026 16:37:27 GMT</pubDate><enclosure url="https://static.wixstatic.com/media/4fbbee_e8985acb153440f7a010f996f46af54d~mv2.jpg/v1/fit/w_798,h_720,al_c,q_80/file.png" length="0" type="image/png"/><dc:creator>Bob Clements</dc:creator></item></channel></rss>