Interior Shutter Myths Debunked
The Salt Lake City shutter pros have debunked some shutter myths previously. On our previous myth-busting spree, we exposed a few common misunderstandings people have regarding interior shutters in Salt Lake City.
This time, the Sunburst Shutters Salt Lake City pros are back to set it straight on a few more myths we’ve heard from shutter-buyers around Utah. Let’s get started.
Myth #1: “Plantation Shutters Don’t Look Good In Anything Except Southern Houses.”
When some people hear the name “plantation shutters,” they immediately go to the image of a giant, sprawling southern house 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 the Antebellum South.
However, plantation shutters offer those very same features to any style of home. Craftsman homes can utilize shutters, just like Tudor homes, Cape Cod houses, and even lake houses can.
Myth#2: “My Home 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 look somewhat boring. A previous customer once told us that they thought that their house was “too eclectic” for shutters, which was a big head-scratcher–since shutters are likely the one and only window treatment that can accentuate any style.
Myth: “Blinds And Shutters Are Just About The Same Thing.”
For some reason, there happens to be a lot of confusion over the difference between shutters and blinds. Maybe it has to do with people confusing “slats” and “louvers,” or it’s the similarity in shape that causes the confusion. No matter the reason, shutters and blinds are pretty easy to distinguish when you look at their features. Here’s the basic breakdown of the battle of blinds vs. shutters.
| The difference | Blinds | Shutters |
| Can they block out the entire window? | No | Yes |
| Structure | Dangles from cord | Solid frame mounted on to window frame |
| Lifespan | Can wear down or fall apart after 2-3 years. | Will easily 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. |
| Can they fit unique shape windows? | Can only fit rectangular windows. | Yes. |
| What are the horizontal parts called? | Slats | Louvers |
Myth: “All window coverings are basically the same in energy efficiency.”
As the “Blinds vs. Shutters” table shows, window coverings can differ by a wide margin on how energy efficient they are. The structure, material, and construction can all make a difference in how energy efficient a window treatment is.
At the bottom rung of energy efficiency is leaving your window completely bare. Offering only a tiny bit more energy efficiency are your typical retail aluminum blinds. Up a little further on the spectrum are draperies and heavier fabric window treatments. Going further into energy efficient territory we have the majority of wood shutters and honeycomb shades, made to offer UV protection and heat reduction. But far beyond all of these are Polywood plantation shutters, constructed to both reflect and block thermal heat from moving through your window.
No More Shutter Myths
If you feel like you’re drowning in an ocean of misinformation regarding window treatments, we can throw you a lifeline. Call Sunburst Shutters Salt Lake City today at 801-515-3598 to speak to one of our pros and set up your free in-home consultation to find your perfect shutter or window treatment today.
