Interior Shutter Myths: The Truth
Sunburst Shutters New Brunswick has exposed a few shutter myths before. During our last myth-debunking spree, we exposed a few common misunderstandings people have about interior shutters in New Brunswick.
Well, the Sunburst Shutters New Brunswick team is back to set the record straight on a couple more myths we’ve been hearing from people around New Jersey. Let’s take a look.
Myth #1: “Plantation Shutters Are For Southern Houses.”
When some homeowners hear the phrase “plantation shutters,” they stick to the image of a huge, sprawling southern house surrounded by fields. Although it’s true that the shutters owe their name to that location and time, plantation shutters enjoyed a lot of popularity way before and way after the Antebellum South.
Nevertheless, plantation shutters offer those same features to any home, no matter its style or location. Craftsman style homes can use shutters, just like Victorian homes, Cape Cod 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 people may have gotten the impression that shutters seem a little stale. We’ve worked with a customer previously who claimed that their home was “too distinct” to use shutters, which was a tad confusing–since shutters are the one window treatment that can match any style.
Myth: “Blinds And Shutters Are Basically The Same Thing.”
For some reason, there seems to be some confusion over the difference between blinds and shutters. It might have to do with the confusion between “louvers” and “slats,” or it’s the similarity in shape that causes the confusion. Regardless, shutters and blinds really couldn’t be further apart on the window treatment spectrum. 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 attached to window frame |
| How long will they last? | Will break down or deteriorate after 2-3 years. | Can easily last 20+ years. |
| Permanent or temporary? | Temporary | Permanent |
| Can they increase home value? | No | Yes |
| Energy Efficiency | Minimal | Can block up to 50% of heat from the sun. |
| Specialty Windows | Can only fit rectangular windows. | Yes. |
| What are the adjustable parts called? | Slats | Louvers |
Myth #4: “All window coverings are basically identical in energy efficiency.”
As the “Blinds vs. Shutters” table illustrated, window treatments can differ by a wide margin on how energy efficient they are. The shape, material, and construction will all have a big impact in how energy efficient a window treatment is.
On the lowest end of the spectrum you have no window treatment whatsoever. Offering just a little more energy efficiency are your common retail mini blinds. More energy efficient than those are draperies and heavier fabric window treatments. Going further into energy efficient territory are typical wood shutters and cellular shades, made to offer UV protection and heat reduction. But far beyond all of these are Polywood plantation shutters, designed to both reflect and block thermal heat from moving through your window.
No More Shutter Myths
If you feel like you’re drowning in a sea of half truths when it comes to window treatments, we can toss you a lifeline. Call Sunburst Shutters New Brunswick today at 732-301-6168 to speak to one of our pros and schedule your complimentary in-home consultation to find your perfect shutter or window treatment today.
