Interior Shutter Myths Busted
Sunburst Shutters Gainesville has busted some shutter myths before. On our last myth-busting trip, we exposed a few common misunderstandings homeowners have about plantation shutters in Gainesville.
Well, the Sunburst Shutters Gainesville pros are back to set the record straight on a couple more myths we’ve heard from homeowners around Florida. Let’s get started.
Myth: “Plantation Shutters Don’t Look Good In Anything Except Southern Homes.”
When some people hear the term “plantation shutters,” they typically conjure the image of a giant, sprawling southern house surrounded by plains. Although it’s true that they owe their name to that location and time, plantation shutters in fact had huge popularity much earlier and much later than the Antebellum South.
However, plantation shutters offer those very same features to any style of home. Craftsman houses can use shutters, just as Victorian homes, Prairie houses, and even cottage 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 homeowners may have gotten the impression that shutters may seem a little boring. We’ve heard a customer say before that their house was “too distinct” for shutters, which was a big head-scratcher–since shutters are likely the one and only window treatment that can mesh with any style.
Myth #3: “Shutters And Blinds Are Just About The Same Thing.”
For some reason, there seems to be some 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, shutters and blinds are pretty easy to distinguish when you look at their features. Below is a basic breakdown of the battle of blinds vs. shutters.
| The difference | Blinds | Shutters |
| Can they block out the entire window? | No | Yes |
| Structure | Hangs from cord | Solid frame mounted on to window frame |
| 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 |
| Can they increase home value? | 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 adjustable parts called? | Slats | Louvers |
Myth: “All window treatments are about the same in energy efficiency.”
Like the “Blinds vs. Shutters” table illustrated, window coverings can differ by a wide margin on how energy efficient they are. The structure, material, and construction can all play a huge part in how much energy efficiency a window treatment offers.
At the bottom rung of energy efficiency is leaving your window completely bare. Offering only a tiny bit more energy efficiency are your common retail mini blinds. More energy efficient than those are draperies and heavier fabric window coverings. Getting into somewhat noticeable territory we have typical wood shutters and cellular shades, made to offer UV protection and temperature reduction. But at the very top of the mountain are Polywood plantation shutters, constructed to both reflect and block heat from the sun from passing into your home.
No More Shutter Myths
If you feel as if you’re drowning in an ocean of misinformation about window treatments, we want to toss you a lifeline. Call Sunburst Shutters Gainesville today at 813-602-5966 to speak to one of our pros and set up a free in-home consultation to find your perfect shutter or window treatment today.
