Plantation Shutter Myths Debunked
Our Bluff City shutter team has dismantled a few shutter myths before. During our previous myth-debunking spree, we exposed some of the most common misconceptions people have about plantation shutters in Bluff City.
Well, the Sunburst Shutters NW Tennessee experts are back to correct the record on a few more myths we’ve heard from shutter-buyers around TN. Let’s jump right in.
Myth #1: “Plantation Shutters Only Work In Southern Houses.”
When some homeowners hear the phrase “plantation shutters,” their minds stick to the image of a huge, sprawling southern house surrounded by plains. Though it’s true that the shutters owe their name to that location and time, plantation shutters were actually popular much earlier and much later than 19th Century Southern America.
Nevertheless, plantation shutters can give those exact same benefits to any home, no matter its style or location. Craftsman style houses can use 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 Distinct For Shutters.”
Because plantation shutters have been used in so many houses and for such a long time, some homeowners might think that shutters may look a little boring. We’ve worked with a customer previously who claimed that their home was “too eclectic” for shutters, which was a big head-scratcher–since shutters are the one window treatment that can complement any style.
Myth: “Blinds And Shutters Are Pretty Much The Same Thing.”
For some reason, there seems to be a lot of confusion over the difference between shutters and blinds. Maybe it has to do with people confusing “slats” and “louvers,” or maybe there’s confusion because of their somewhat similar shapes. Regardless, blinds and shutters are pretty easy to distinguish when you look at their features. Here’s the basic breakdown of both.
| What’s the difference? | Blinds | Shutters |
| Can they block out the entire window? | No | Yes |
| Structure | Suspended from cord | Solid frame mounted on to window jamb |
| Lifetime | Can wear down or fall apart after 2-3 years. | Will usually last 20+ years. |
| Permanent or temporary? | Temporary | Permanent |
| Increases home value | No | Yes |
| Energy Efficiency | Minimal | Can block up to 50% of heat from the sun. |
| Specialty Windows | Can only fit rectangular windows. | Yes. |
| What are the adjustable parts called? | Slats | Louvers |
Myth #4: “All window treatments are about the same in energy efficiency.”
As the “Blinds vs. Shutters” table illustrated, window treatments can vary tremendously on how much energy efficiency they offer. The shape, material, and finish will all make a difference in how energy efficient a window treatment can be.
At the bottom rung of energy efficiency is leaving your window completely bare. Offering just a tad more energy efficiency are your everyday off the shelf aluminum blinds. Up a little further on the spectrum are drapes and sturdy fabric window coverings. Getting into somewhat noticeable territory we have the majority of wood shutters and cellular shades, made to offer UV protection and temperature reduction. But the real king of the hill in energy efficiency is Polywood plantation shutters, built to both reflect and block outside temperature 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 NW Tennessee today at 276-685-5343 to speak to one of our experts and schedule your complimentary in-home consultation to find your perfect shutter or window treatment today.
