Interior Shutter Myths: The Truth
Our Cleveland shutter team has dismantled some shutter myths in the past. During our last myth-busting trip, we exposed a few common misunderstandings homeowners have about interior shutters in Cleveland.
This time, the Sunburst Shutters Cleveland team is back to set it straight on a few more myths we’ve been hearing from shutter-buyers around Ohio. Let’s jump right in.
Myth: “Plantation Shutters Only Work In Southern Houses.”
When some people hear the name “plantation shutters,” their minds typically conjure the image of a huge, elegant southern mansion surrounded by plains. Though it’s true that the shutters are named for that particular place and time, plantation shutters were actually popular way before and way after 19th Century Southern America.
However, plantation shutters can give those very same benefits to any type of home. Craftsman homes can use shutters, just as Colonial homes, Prairie houses, and even lake houses can.
Myth#2: “My Home Style Won’t Work With Shutters Is Too Distinct For Shutters.”
Because plantation shutters have been so popular for so long, some people might think that shutters may look somewhat boring. We’ve heard a customer say before that their house was “too distinct” for shutters, which was a big head-scratcher–since shutters are the one window treatment that can complement any style.
Myth #3: “Blinds And Shutters Are Just About The Same Thing.”
For some reason, there seems to be a lot of confusion over the difference between blinds and shutters. Perhaps it has to do with the confusion between “slats” and “louvers,” or it’s the similarity in shape that causes the confusion. Regardless, blinds and shutters are pretty easy to distinguish when you look at their features. Below is a basic breakdown of both.
| What’s 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 | Can break down or deteriorate after 2-3 years. | Can easily last 20+ years. |
| Permanent or temporary? | Temporary | Permanent |
| Adds to value of the home? | No | Yes |
| Energy Efficiency | Minimal | Can block up to 50% of heat from the sun. |
| Can they fit unique shape windows? | No | Can fit any specialty shape windows. |
| What are the adjustable parts called? | Slats | Louvers |
Myth: “All window treatments offer nearly the same energy efficiency.”
As the “Blinds vs. Shutters” table above mentions, window coverings can differ by a wide margin on how much energy efficiency they offer. The structure, material, and finish can all make a difference in how much energy efficiency a window treatment offers.
At the bottom rung of energy efficiency is leaving your window completely bare. Offering only a tiny bit more energy efficiency are your everyday off the shelf mini blinds. More energy efficient than those are draperies and sturdy fabric window coverings. Getting even closer to energy efficient territory are typical wood shutters and honeycomb shades, made to offer thermal protection and temperature reduction. But dwarfing all of these other window treatments are Polywood plantation shutters, constructed to both reflect and block outside temperature from moving through your window.
No More Shutter Myths
If you feel as if you’re drowning in a sea of half truths when it comes to window treatments, we want to throw you a lifeline. Call Sunburst Shutters Cleveland today at 440-561-6787 to talk to one of our pros and schedule your complimentary in-home consultation to find your perfect shutter or window treatment today.
