Interior Shutter Myths Debunked
Sunburst Shutters Cincinnati has exposed some shutter myths previously. On our previous myth-busting trip, we exposed some of the most common misunderstandings people have regarding plantation shutters in Cincinnati.
This time, the Sunburst Shutters Cincinnati team is back to set it straight on a couple more myths we’ve been hearing from people in and around Ohio. Let’s jump right in.
Myth: “Plantation Shutters Don’t Look Good In Anything Except Southern Houses.”
When some people see the name “plantation shutters,” their minds typically conjure the image of a huge, elegant southern mansion surrounded by hills. While it’s true that they owe their name to that location and time, plantation shutters were actually popular way before and way after 19th Century Southern America.
However, plantation shutters can give those same perks to any style of home. Craftsman style houses can utilize shutters, just as Victorian homes, Prairie houses, and even cottage houses can.
Myth: “My Home Style Won’t Work With Shutters Is Too Distinct 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 may seem somewhat stale. A previous customer once told us that they thought that their space was “too distinct” to install shutters, which was a big head-scratcher–since shutters are just about the only window treatment that can match any style.
Myth #3: “Blinds And Shutters Are Basically The Same Thing.”
For some reason, there’s some confusion over the difference between blinds and shutters. It might have to do with homeowners conflating “slats” and “louvers,” or it’s the similarity in shape that causes the confusion. Either way, blinds and shutters really couldn’t be further apart on the window treatment spectrum. Here’s the basic breakdown of the two.
| The difference | Blinds | Shutters |
| Can they block out the entire window? | No | Yes |
| Structure | Suspended from cord | Solid frame attached to window frame |
| How long will they last? | Will break down or deteriorate after 2-3 years. | Can 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. |
| Specialty Windows | Can only fit rectangular windows. | Yes. |
| What are the adjustable parts called? | Slats | Louvers |
Myth #4: “All window treatments offer basically the same energy efficiency.”
Like the “Blinds vs. Shutters” table illustrated, window treatments can differ tremendously on how much energy efficiency they offer. The shape, material, and construction will all have a big impact in how much energy efficiency a window treatment offers.
Offering no benefits in energy efficiency is a bare window without a covering. Offering only a tiny bit more energy efficiency are your common off the shelf aluminum blinds. More energy efficient than those are draperies and heavier fabric window treatments. Getting into somewhat noticeable territory we have most wood shutters and honeycomb shades, built to offer UV protection and temperature reduction. But dwarfing all of these other window treatments are Polywood plantation shutters, built to both reflect and block outside temperature from moving through your window.
No More Shutter Myths
If you feel like you’re swimming in an ocean of half truths about window treatments, we want to toss you a lifeline. Call Sunburst Shutters Cincinnati today at 513-216-9740 to talk to one of our pros and schedule a complimentary in-home consultation to find your perfect shutter or window treatment today.
