Plantation Shutter Myths Debunked
Our Phoenix shutter team has debunked a few shutter myths previously. On our last myth-busting trip, we looked at some of the most common misunderstandings people have regarding plantation shutters in Phoenix.
This time, the Sunburst Shutters Phoenix team is back to set the record straight on a couple more myths we’ve been hearing from shutter-buyers around Arizona. Let’s take a look.
Myth: “Plantation Shutters Don’t Look Good In Anything Except Southern Houses.”
When some homeowners hear the phrase “plantation shutters,” they typically conjure the image of a huge, elegant southern house surrounded by fields. While it’s true that the shutters are named for that particular place and time, plantation shutters were actually popular much earlier and much later than the Antebellum South.
Nevertheless, plantation shutters offer those exact same features to any type of home. Craftsman style houses can use shutters, just as Tudor homes, Prairie houses, and even lake houses can.
Myth#2: “My Home Style Won’t Work With Shutters Is Too Eclectic For Shutters.”
Because plantation shutters saw so much use over time, some homeowners might think that shutters might seem a little stale. We’ve heard a customer say before that their space was “too eclectic” to use shutters, which was a tad confusing–since shutters are probably the only window treatment that can mesh with any style.
Myth: “Shutters And Blinds Are Basically The Same Thing.”
For some reason, there’s some confusion over the difference between blinds and shutters. Perhaps it has to do with the confusion between “slats” and “louvers,” or maybe there’s confusion because of their somewhat similar shapes. Either way, blinds and shutters couldn’t be more different. Below is a basic breakdown of the battle of blinds vs. shutters.
| What’s the difference? | Blinds | Shutters |
| Can block out whole window134 | No | Yes |
| Structure | Suspended from cord | Solid frame mounted on to window frame |
| How long will they last? | Will wear down or fall apart after 2-3 years. | Can easily last 20+ years. |
| Permanent or temporary? | Temporary | Permanent |
| Can they increase home value? | No | Yes |
| Energy Efficiency | Minimal | Can block up to 30 degrees of outside temperature. |
| Can they fit unique shape windows? | Can only fit rectangular windows. | Can fit any specialty shape windows. |
| What are the horizontal parts called? | Slats | Louvers |
Myth: “All window coverings offer basically the same energy efficiency.”
As the “Blinds vs. Shutters” table above mentions, window coverings can differ by a wide margin on how energy efficient they are. The structure, material, and finish can all play a huge part in how energy efficient a window treatment can be.
No window treatment on your window means no energy efficiency added whatsoever. Offering just a tad more energy efficiency are your everyday off the shelf mini blinds. Up a little further on the spectrum are drapes and sturdy fabric window coverings. Getting into somewhat noticeable territory we have most wood shutters and cellular shades, built to offer thermal protection and heat reduction. But far beyond all of these are Polywood plantation shutters, made to both reflect and block outside temperature from passing into your home.
No More Shutter Myths
If you feel like you’re swimming in a sea of half truths regarding window treatments, we can toss you a lifeline. Call Sunburst Shutters Phoenix today at 480-485-7743 to talk to one of our pros and schedule a complimentary in-home consultation to find your perfect shutter or window treatment today.
