Interior Shutter Myths Debunked
Our Houston shutter team has dismantled some shutter myths before. During our previous myth-busting binge, we exposed a few common misconceptions people have regarding plantation shutters in Houston.
Well, the Sunburst Shutters Houston team is back to correct the record on a couple more myths we’ve been hearing from shutter-buyers in and around Texas. Let’s jump right in.
Myth: “Plantation Shutters Are Meant For Southern Houses.”
When some homeowners hear the term “plantation shutters,” their minds immediately go to the image of a giant, elegant southern house surrounded by fields. While it’s true that the shutters are named for that particular place and time, plantation shutters enjoyed a lot of popularity way before and way after 19th Century Southern America.
Nevertheless, plantation shutters offer those very same perks to any type of home. Craftsman style houses can utilize shutters, just like Colonial homes, Mid-Century Modern houses, and even cottage houses can.
Myth: “My House Style Won’t Work With Shutters Is Too Eclectic For Shutters.”
Because plantation shutters have enjoyed widespread use over several decades, some people may have gotten the impression that shutters look a little stale. We’ve heard a customer say before that their house was “too distinct” to install shutters, which was a tad confusing–since shutters are the one window treatment that can mesh with any style.
Myth #3: “Blinds And Shutters Are Just About The Same Thing.”
For some reason, there happens to be some confusion over the difference between shutters and blinds. It might have 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. Here’s the basic breakdown of the battle of blinds vs. shutters.
| What’s the difference? | Blinds | Shutters |
| Can they block out the entire window? | No | Yes |
| Structure | Hangs from cord | Solid frame mounted on to window jamb |
| Lifetime | Will wear 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. | Can fit any specialty shape windows. |
| What are the adjustable parts called? | Slats | Louvers |
Myth: “All window treatments offer basically the same energy efficiency.”
Like the “Blinds vs. Shutters” table above mentions, window treatments can vary by a wide margin on how much energy efficiency they offer. The shape, material, and finish will 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 only a tiny bit more energy efficiency are your common off the shelf mini blinds. More energy efficient than those are drapes and heavier fabric window coverings. Getting into somewhat noticeable territory are typical wood shutters and honeycomb shades, made to offer thermal protection and temperature reduction. But far beyond all of these are Polywood plantation shutters, built to both reflect and block outside temperature from passing into your home.
No More Shutter Myths
If you feel as if you’re swimming in an ocean of inaccurate info regarding shutters, we want to throw you a lifeline. Call Sunburst Shutters Houston today at 713-853-9629 to talk to one of our pros and set up a complimentary in-home consultation to find your perfect shutter or window treatment today.
