Interior Shutter Myths: The Truth
We’ve exposed some shutter myths in the past. On our previous myth-debunking spree, we looked at some of the most common misunderstandings homeowners have about interior shutters in Chicago.
Well, the Sunburst Shutters Chicago pros are back to correct the record on a couple more myths we’ve been hearing from homeowners around Illinois. Let’s take a look.
Myth #1: “Plantation Shutters Don’t Look Good In Anything Except Southern Houses.”
When some people hear the phrase “plantation shutters,” they typically conjure the image of a huge, elegant southern mansion surrounded by hills. While it’s true that they are named for that particular place and time, plantation shutters in fact had huge popularity much earlier and much later than the Antebellum South.
However, plantation shutters offer those very same features to any home, no matter its style or location. Craftsman style houses can utilize shutters, just like Victorian homes, Prairie houses, and even lake houses can.
Myth: “My House Style Won’t Work With Shutters Is Too Distinct For Shutters.”
Because plantation shutters saw so much use over time, some people might think that shutters may seem somewhat boring. We’ve worked with a customer previously who claimed that their space was “too distinct” to use shutters, which was a tad confusing–since shutters are the one window treatment that can complement any style.
Myth: “Blinds And Shutters Are Pretty Much 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 people confusing “slats” and “louvers,” or maybe there’s confusion because of their somewhat similar shapes. Either way, blinds and shutters really couldn’t be further apart on the window treatment spectrum. Below is a basic breakdown of the two.
| The difference | Blinds | Shutters |
| Are able to block out whole window134 | No | Yes |
| Structure | Dangles from cord | Solid frame attached to window frame |
| How long will they last? | Will wear down or fall apart after 2-3 years. | Can easily 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 unique shape windows? | No | Can fit any specialty shape windows. |
| What are the horizontal parts called? | Slats | Louvers |
Myth #4: “All window treatments are basically the same in energy efficiency.”
Like the “Blinds vs. Shutters” table above mentions, window treatments can differ by a wide margin on how much energy efficiency they offer. The structure, 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 just a little more energy efficiency are your typical off the shelf aluminum blinds. More energy efficient than those are drapes and sturdy fabric window coverings. Going further into energy efficient territory are 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 thermal heat from moving through your window.
No More Shutter Myths
If you feel like you’re swimming in a sea of half truths when it comes to window treatments, we can toss you a lifeline. Call Sunburst Shutters Chicago today at 847-250-6544 to speak to one of our experts and schedule your complimentary in-home consultation to find your perfect shutter or window treatment today.
