Interior Shutter Myths Busted
Sunburst Shutters Sacramento has exposed a few shutter myths before. During our last myth-busting trip, we tackled some of the most common misunderstandings homeowners have regarding interior shutters in Sacramento.
This time, the Sunburst Shutters Sacramento team is back to set it straight on a couple more myths we’ve been hearing from shutter-buyers in and around California. Let’s take a look.
Myth: “Plantation Shutters Are For Southern Houses.”
When some people see the words “plantation shutters,” they immediately go to the image of a huge, elegant southern mansion surrounded by fields. Although it’s true that the shutters are named for that particular place and time, plantation shutters were actually popular way before and way after the Antebellum South.
However, plantation shutters offer those exact same benefits to any style of home. Craftsman style houses can utilize shutters, just like Victorian homes, Mid-Century Modern houses, and even beach houses can.
Myth: “My Home Style Won’t Work With Shutters Is Too Distinct For Shutters.”
Because plantation shutters saw so much use over time, some homeowners may have gotten the impression that shutters seem a little boring. A previous customer once told us that they thought that their space 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 happens to be a lot of confusion over the difference between shutters and blinds. It might have to do with the confusion between “slats” and “louvers,” or it’s the similarity in shape that causes the confusion. No matter the reason, shutters and blinds are pretty easy to distinguish when you look at their features. Below is a basic breakdown of the battle of blinds vs. shutters.
| What’s the difference? | Blinds | Shutters |
| Can they block out the entire window? | No | Yes |
| Structure | Dangles from cord | Solid frame mounted on to window jamb |
| Lifetime | Will wear down or fall apart after 2-3 years. | Will 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. |
| Specialty Windows | No | Yes. |
| What are the horizontal parts called? | Slats | Louvers |
Myth #4: “All window coverings offer about the same energy efficiency.”
As the “Blinds vs. Shutters” table shows, window treatments can vary tremendously on how much energy efficiency they offer. The shape, material, and finish will all have a big impact in how much energy efficiency a window treatment offers.
At the bottom rung of energy efficiency is leaving your window completely bare. Offering only slightly more energy efficiency are your typical off the shelf mini blinds. More energy efficient than those are drapes and sturdy fabric window treatments. Getting into somewhat noticeable territory we have typical wood shutters and honeycomb shades, built to offer thermal protection and heat reduction. But the real king of the hill in energy efficiency is Polywood plantation shutters, built to both reflect and block sunlight and outside heat from moving through your window.
No More Shutter Myths
If you feel as if you’re drowning in a sea of misinformation regarding window treatments, we can toss you a lifeline. Call Sunburst Shutters Sacramento today at 916-665-0078 to speak to one of our pros and schedule a complimentary in-home consultation to find your perfect shutter or window treatment today.
