Interior Shutter Myths Busted
We’ve dismantled a few shutter myths in the past. On our last myth-busting binge, we exposed a few common misunderstandings homeowners have about plantation shutters in Baltimore.
Well, the Sunburst Shutters Baltimore experts are back to set it straight on a couple more myths we’ve been hearing from shutter-buyers around Maryland. Let’s get started.
Myth: “Plantation Shutters Don’t Look Good In Anything Except Southern Homes.”
When some homeowners hear the phrase “plantation shutters,” their minds stick to the image of a huge, sprawling southern house surrounded by fields. 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 19th Century Southern America.
Nevertheless, plantation shutters can give those very same perks to any style of home. Craftsman style houses can utilize shutters, just as Victorian homes, Cape Cod houses, and even beach houses can.
Myth#2: “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 might think that shutters might seem somewhat stale. We’ve worked with a customer previously who claimed that their house was “too eclectic” to use shutters, which was a big head-scratcher–since shutters are just about the only window treatment that can match any style.
Myth #3: “Shutters And Blinds Are Just About The Same Thing.”
For some reason, there happens to be a lot of confusion over the difference between shutters and blinds. It might have to do with the confusion between “slats” and “louvers,” or it’s the similarity in shape that causes the confusion. Regardless, blinds and shutters really couldn’t be further apart on the window treatment spectrum. Below is a basic breakdown of both.
| The difference | Blinds | Shutters |
| Can they block out the entire window? | No | Yes |
| Structure | Hangs from cord | Solid frame attached to window jamb |
| How long will they last? | Will 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 30 degrees of outside temperature. |
| Specialty Windows | No | Yes. |
| What are the horizontal parts called? | Slats | Louvers |
Myth: “All window coverings are basically the same in energy efficiency.”
Like the “Blinds vs. Shutters” table above mentions, window treatments can vary tremendously on how energy efficient they are. The shape, material, and finish can all make a difference in how much energy efficiency a window treatment offers.
No window treatment on your window means no energy efficiency added whatsoever. Offering only a tiny bit more energy efficiency are your everyday department store aluminum blinds. Up a little further on the spectrum are drapes and sturdy fabric window treatments. Going further into energy efficient territory are the majority of wood shutters and honeycomb shades, made to offer sun-blocking protection and heat reduction. But far beyond all of these are Polywood plantation shutters, built to both reflect and block heat from the sun from passing into your home.
No More Shutter Myths
If you feel like you’re drowning in an ocean of inaccurate info about shutters, we want to throw you a lifeline. Call Sunburst Shutters Baltimore today at 301-321-7998 to speak to one of our experts and set up your free in-home consultation to find your perfect shutter or window treatment today.
