[grannie9]

I had the Plantation shutters down the beach.. and I loved the look of them inside and out. I do think I'll stick to those on the front. It won't matter either because there are no other windows in those rooms to contend with.

I will only do half way too, as those windows are facing east, so it should be ok. If not, like you said some sheers or pull-ups of some kind.

The sliders meet in the middle on the lanai and open in a corner, so I might not have any choice on the verticals. Need to keep out the west sun but have something that opens up completely back to both room walls. I hate the damned things, but I think I might be stuck with them.

[Darlin']

I love the look of them, too. And, like Ringy said, they require almost no care, just dusting. :) Yes, unless you need to block strong afternoon sun on a west facing window you really only need the lower half done. My office faces west and the afternoon sun reall heats it up.

What ae siders, vertical blinds ?

[catpuppy]

Plantation shutters here on the beach (south) and east sides. They are wonderful.