Plantation Shutter Myths Debunked
Our Virginia Beach shutter team has busted some shutter myths before. During our previous myth-debunking trip, we tackled a few common misunderstandings people have regarding interior shutters in Virginia Beach.
This time, the Sunburst Shutters Virginia Beach pros are back to set the record straight on a few more myths we’ve heard from shutter-buyers in and around Virginia. Let’s get started.
Myth #1: “Plantation Shutters Are Meant For Southern Houses.”
When some people see the name “plantation shutters,” they typically conjure the image of a huge, sprawling southern house surrounded by hills. While 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 the Antebellum South.
However, plantation shutters offer those same benefits to any style of home. Craftsman style homes can utilize shutters, just like Tudor homes, Prairie houses, and even lake houses can.
Myth: “My Home 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 seem a little stale. We’ve worked with a customer previously who claimed that their space was “too distinct” to use shutters, which was a tad confusing–since shutters are probably the only window treatment that can match any style.
Myth #3: “Blinds And Shutters Are Basically 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 homeowners conflating “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.
| The difference | Blinds | Shutters |
| Can they block out the entire window? | No | Yes |
| Structure | Suspended from cord | Solid frame attached to window frame |
| Lifespan | Will wear down or deteriorate 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 50% of heat from the sun. |
| Specialty Windows | No | Can fit any specialty shape windows. |
| What are the adjustable parts called? | Slats | Louvers |
Myth #4: “All window coverings are similar in energy efficiency.”
Like the “Blinds vs. Shutters” table illustrated, window treatments can differ tremendously on how much energy efficiency they offer. The shape, material, and finish can all make a difference in how energy efficient a window treatment is.
On the lowest end of the spectrum you have no window treatment whatsoever. Offering just a little more energy efficiency are your common retail mini blinds. More energy efficient than those are draperies and heavier fabric window treatments. Going further into energy efficient territory are typical wood shutters and honeycomb shades, built to offer sun-blocking protection and temperature reduction. But at the very top of the mountain 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 a sea of half truths regarding window treatments, we want to throw you a lifeline. Call Sunburst Shutters Virginia Beach today at 757-210-6448 to talk to one of our pros and schedule your free in-home consultation to find your perfect shutter or window treatment today.
