Interior Shutter Myths: The Truth
We’ve exposed a few shutter myths previously. On our previous myth-debunking trip, we tackled a few common misconceptions people have regarding interior shutters in Charlotte.
This time, the Sunburst Shutters Charlotte pros are back to correct the record on a couple more myths we’ve heard from homeowners in and around North Carolina. Let’s take a look.
Myth: “Plantation Shutters Don’t Look Good In Anything Except Southern Houses.”
When some people hear the term “plantation shutters,” they immediately go to the image of a giant, sprawling southern house surrounded by plains. Though it’s true that they are named for that particular place and time, plantation shutters were actually popular much earlier and much later than 19th Century Southern America.
Nevertheless, plantation shutters can give those very same features to any style of home. Craftsman style houses can use shutters, just as Colonial homes, Prairie houses, and even cottage houses can.
Myth#2: “My House Style Won’t Work With Shutters Is Too Distinct For Shutters.”
Because plantation shutters have enjoyed widespread use over several decades, some homeowners might think that shutters can seem somewhat boring. A previous customer once told us that they thought that their home was “too distinct” to use shutters, which was a tad confusing–since shutters are the one window treatment that can mesh with any style.
Myth #3: “Blinds And Shutters Are Pretty Much The Same Thing.”
For some reason, there seems to be a lot of confusion over the difference between shutters and blinds. Perhaps it has to do with people confusing “louvers” and “slats,” or it’s the similarity in shape that causes the confusion. Either way, shutters and blinds couldn’t be more different. Here’s the basic breakdown of both.
| The difference | Blinds | Shutters |
| Are able to block out whole window134 | No | Yes |
| Structure | Hangs from cord | Solid frame mounted on to window frame |
| Lifetime | Usually break down or deteriorate after 2-3 years. | Can usually last 20+ years. |
| Permanent or temporary? | Temporary | Permanent |
| Increases home value | No | Yes |
| Energy Efficiency | Minimal | Can block up to 50% of heat from the sun. |
| Can they fit specialty windows? | Can only fit rectangular windows. | Can fit any specialty shape windows. |
| What are the adjustable parts called? | Slats | Louvers |
Myth: “All window treatments are similar in energy efficiency.”
Like the “Blinds vs. Shutters” table shows, window coverings can vary by a wide margin on how energy efficient they are. The structure, material, and construction can all have a big impact in how energy efficient a window treatment can be.
On the lowest end of the spectrum you have no window treatment whatsoever. Offering only slightly more energy efficiency are your everyday retail aluminum blinds. More energy efficient than those are drapes and heavier fabric window coverings. Getting into somewhat noticeable territory we have most wood shutters and cellular shades, made to offer sun-blocking protection and heat reduction. But the real king of the hill in energy efficiency is Polywood plantation shutters, built to both reflect and block heat from the sun from moving through your window.
No More Shutter Myths
If you feel like you’re swimming in an ocean of inaccurate info regarding window treatments, we can throw you a lifeline. Call Sunburst Shutters Charlotte today at 980-231-1116 to speak to one of our experts and set up a free in-home consultation to find your perfect shutter or window treatment today.
