Plantation Shutter Myths: The Truth
We’ve dismantled some shutter myths before. On our last myth-debunking trip, we tackled a few common misunderstandings people have about plantation shutters in Las Vegas.
This time, the Sunburst Shutters Las Vegas team is back to set the record straight on a couple more myths we’ve heard from homeowners around Nevada. Let’s get started.
Myth: “Plantation Shutters Don’t Look Good In Anything Except Southern Houses.”
When some people see the name “plantation shutters,” their minds stick to the image of a giant, elegant southern house surrounded by fields. Although 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 19th Century Southern America.
Nevertheless, plantation shutters offer those very same benefits to any home, no matter its style or location. Craftsman houses can utilize shutters, just as Victorian homes, Cape Cod 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 home was “too eclectic” to install shutters, which was a big head-scratcher–since shutters are just about the only window treatment that can match any style.
Myth #3: “Blinds And Shutters Are Pretty Much The Same Thing.”
For some reason, there’s a lot of confusion over the difference between shutters and blinds. Perhaps it has to do with people confusing “slats” and “louvers,” or it’s the similarity in shape that causes the confusion. Regardless, shutters and blinds couldn’t be more different. Below is a basic breakdown of the battle between shutters and blinds.
| What’s the difference? | Blinds | Shutters |
| Can block out whole window134 | No | Yes |
| Structure | Hangs from cord | Solid frame mounted on to window frame |
| How long will they last? | Can break down or deteriorate after 2-3 years. | Can 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. |
| Specialty Windows | No | Yes. |
| What are the horizontal parts called? | Slats | Louvers |
Myth: “All window treatments offer nearly the same energy efficiency.”
As the “Blinds vs. Shutters” table illustrated, window coverings can differ by a wide margin on how much energy efficiency they offer. The shape, material, and finish can all play a huge part in how much energy efficiency a window treatment offers.
No window treatment on your window means no energy efficiency added whatsoever. Offering just a tad more energy efficiency are your typical off the shelf aluminum blinds. Up a little further on the spectrum are draperies and heavier fabric window treatments. Going further into energy efficient territory we have typical wood shutters and honeycomb shades, built to offer thermal protection and temperature reduction. But at the very top of the mountain 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 like you’re drowning in an ocean of inaccurate info when it comes to shutters, we can toss you a lifeline. Call Sunburst Shutters Las Vegas today at 702-850-6619 to speak to one of our experts and schedule your free in-home consultation to find your perfect shutter or window treatment today.
