Plantation Shutter Myths Busted
We’ve dismantled some shutter myths previously. During our previous myth-busting spree, we looked at a few common misconceptions homeowners have regarding plantation shutters in Southern California.
This time, the Sunburst Shutters Southern CA pros are back to set the record straight on a couple more myths we’ve been hearing from people around California. Let’s take a look.
Myth: “Plantation Shutters Only Look Good In Southern Houses.”
When some homeowners see the name “plantation shutters,” their minds stick to the image of a huge, sprawling southern mansion surrounded by plains. Though 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 can give those exact same benefits to any home, no matter its style or location. Craftsman houses can utilize shutters, just as Victorian homes, Cape Cod houses, and even lake houses can.
Myth: “My Home Style Won’t Work With Shutters Is Too Eclectic For Shutters.”
Because plantation shutters have been so popular for so long, some people might think that shutters seem a little boring. We’ve worked with a customer previously who claimed that their home was “too distinct” to install shutters, which was a big head-scratcher–since shutters are likely the one and only window treatment that can accentuate any style.
Myth #3: “Shutters And Blinds Are Basically The Same Thing.”
For some reason, there’s a lot of confusion over the difference between blinds and shutters. It might have to do with homeowners conflating “louvers” and “slats,” or maybe there’s confusion because of their somewhat similar shapes. 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 two.
| The difference | Blinds | Shutters |
| Are able to block out whole window134 | No | Yes |
| Structure | Suspended from cord | Solid frame mounted on to window frame |
| How long will they last? | Can break down or fall apart after 2-3 years. | Will usually last 20+ years. |
| Permanent or temporary? | Temporary | Permanent |
| Can they increase home value? | No | Yes |
| Energy Efficiency | Minimal | Can block up to 30 degrees of outside temperature. |
| Can they fit non-square windows? | No | Can fit any specialty shape windows. |
| What are the horizontal parts called? | Slats | Louvers |
Myth #4: “All window treatments offer basically the same energy efficiency.”
As the “Blinds vs. Shutters” table illustrated, window treatments can differ tremendously on how much energy efficiency they offer. The structure, material, and construction can all play a huge part in how energy efficient a window treatment can be.
At the bottom rung of energy efficiency is leaving your window completely bare. Offering only a tiny bit more energy efficiency are your typical department store aluminum blinds. More energy efficient than those are draperies and heavier fabric window treatments. Getting even closer to energy efficient territory we have most wood shutters and cellular shades, made to offer sun-blocking protection and heat reduction. But at the very top of the mountain are Polywood plantation shutters, designed to both reflect and block thermal heat from moving through your window.
No More Shutter Myths
If you feel as if you’re swimming in a sea of half truths about window treatments, we can toss you a lifeline. Call Sunburst Shutters Southern CA today at 888-611-2474 to talk to one of our experts and set up a free in-home consultation to find your perfect shutter or window treatment today.
