Interior Shutter Myths Busted
We’ve exposed some shutter myths previously. During our previous myth-busting spree, we looked at some of the most common misconceptions people have about interior shutters in Philadelphia.
Well, the Sunburst Shutters Philadelphia experts are back to correct the record on a few more myths we’ve been hearing from people around Pennsylvania. Let’s jump right in.
Myth: “Plantation Shutters Only Work In Southern Homes.”
When some people hear the term “plantation shutters,” they typically conjure the image of a huge, elegant southern mansion surrounded by hills. Though it’s true that the shutters owe their name to that location and time, plantation shutters in fact had huge popularity way before and way after 19th Century Southern America.
Nevertheless, plantation shutters offer those exact same perks to any type of home. Craftsman homes can use shutters, just like Colonial homes, Mid-Century Modern houses, and even cottage houses can.
Myth#2: “My House Style Won’t Work With Shutters Is Too Eclectic For Shutters.”
Because plantation shutters have been used in so many houses and for such a long time, some homeowners may have gotten the impression that shutters might seem somewhat boring. We’ve heard a customer say before that their home was “too distinct” to install shutters, which was a tad confusing–since shutters are likely the one and only window treatment that can match any style.
Myth #3: “Blinds And Shutters Are Basically The Same Thing.”
For some reason, there seems to be some confusion over the difference between shutters and blinds. Maybe it has to do with the confusion between “louvers” and “slats,” or it’s the similarity in shape that causes the confusion. No matter the reason, blinds and shutters really couldn’t be further apart on the window treatment spectrum. Here’s the basic breakdown of both.
| The difference | Blinds | Shutters |
| Can block out whole window134 | No | Yes |
| Structure | Suspended from cord | Solid frame mounted on to window frame |
| Lifetime | Can break down or deteriorate after 2-3 years. | Will usually 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 specialty windows? | Can only fit rectangular windows. | Can fit any specialty shape windows. |
| What are the adjustable parts called? | Slats | Louvers |
Myth #4: “All window treatments offer about the same energy efficiency.”
As the “Blinds vs. Shutters” table shows, window coverings can differ tremendously on how energy efficient they are. The shape, material, and construction can all play a huge part in how energy efficient a window treatment is.
Offering no benefits in energy efficiency is a bare window without a covering. Offering just a little more energy efficiency are your common retail aluminum blinds. More energy efficient than those are draperies and heavier fabric window coverings. Going further into energy efficient territory we have typical wood shutters and cellular shades, built to offer sun-blocking 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 passing into your home.
No More Shutter Myths
If you feel as if you’re drowning in an ocean of half truths regarding window treatments, we can toss you a lifeline. Call Sunburst Shutters Philadelphia today at 215-874-4897 to talk to one of our experts and set up a complimentary in-home consultation to find your perfect shutter or window treatment today.
