Plantation Shutter Myths Debunked
We’ve exposed some shutter myths previously. On our last myth-debunking spree, we exposed some of the most common misconceptions people have about plantation shutters in Indianapolis.
Well, the Sunburst Shutters Indianapolis pros are back to set the record straight on a few more myths we’ve been hearing from homeowners around Indiana. Let’s get started.
Myth: “Plantation Shutters Only Work In Southern Houses.”
When some people hear the phrase “plantation shutters,” they stick to the image of a huge, sprawling southern house surrounded by hills. Though it’s true that the shutters owe their name to that location and time, plantation shutters in fact had huge popularity much earlier and much later than 19th Century Southern America.
However, plantation shutters can give those same benefits to any style of home. Craftsman homes can use shutters, just as Victorian homes, Mid-Century Modern houses, and even lake houses can.
Myth#2: “My House Style Won’t Work With Shutters Is Too Eclectic For Shutters.”
Because plantation shutters saw so much use over time, some people may have gotten the impression that shutters might look somewhat boring. We’ve worked with a customer previously who claimed that their house was “too eclectic” for shutters, which was a big head-scratcher–since shutters are probably the only window treatment that can accentuate any style.
Myth: “Blinds And Shutters Are Basically The Same Thing.”
For some reason, there’s a lot of confusion over the difference between shutters and blinds. Maybe it has to do with people confusing “louvers” and “slats,” or it’s the similarity in shape that causes the confusion. No matter the reason, blinds and shutters are pretty easy to distinguish when you look at their features. Here’s the basic breakdown of both.
| The difference | Blinds | Shutters |
| Are able to block out whole window134 | No | Yes |
| Structure | Dangles from cord | Solid frame mounted on to window frame |
| How long will they last? | Can wear 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 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 #4: “All window coverings are basically identical in energy efficiency.”
Like the “Blinds vs. Shutters” table illustrated, window treatments can vary tremendously on how much energy efficiency they offer. The structure, material, and construction will all have a big impact in how much energy efficiency a window treatment offers.
On the lowest end of the spectrum you have no window treatment whatsoever. Offering only a tiny bit more energy efficiency are your everyday department store mini blinds. More energy efficient than those are drapes and sturdy fabric window coverings. Getting even closer to energy efficient territory are the majority of wood shutters and honeycomb shades, built to offer UV protection and temperature reduction. But far beyond all of these are Polywood plantation shutters, constructed to both reflect and block sunlight and outside heat from moving through your window.
No More Shutter Myths
If you feel as if you’re swimming in an ocean of inaccurate info regarding window treatments, we want to toss you a lifeline. Call Sunburst Shutters Indianapolis today at 317-558-9066 to speak to one of our pros and schedule a complimentary in-home consultation to find your perfect shutter or window treatment today.
