Interior Shutter Myths Busted
The San Jose shutter pros have debunked some shutter myths before. On our previous myth-busting spree, we looked at some of the most common misunderstandings homeowners have about plantation shutters in San Jose.
Well, the Sunburst Shutters San Jose experts are back to set it straight on a few more myths we’ve been hearing from homeowners in and around California. Let’s get started.
Myth: “Plantation Shutters Don’t Look Good In Anything Except Southern Homes.”
When some homeowners hear the term “plantation shutters,” their minds typically conjure the image of a huge, elegant southern mansion surrounded by hills. Though it’s true that the shutters are named for that particular place and time, plantation shutters in fact had huge popularity much earlier and much later than the Antebellum South.
However, 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: “My Home Style Won’t Work With Shutters Is Too Eclectic For Shutters.”
Because plantation shutters have been used in so many houses and for such a long time, some homeowners may have gotten the impression that shutters may look somewhat stale. We’ve worked with a customer previously who claimed that their home was “too distinct” to install shutters, which was a tad confusing–since shutters are likely the one and only window treatment that can accentuate any style.
Myth #3: “Blinds And Shutters Are Pretty Much The Same Thing.”
For some reason, there seems to be a lot of confusion over the difference between blinds and shutters. It might have to do with homeowners conflating “slats” and “louvers,” or perhaps the similar basic shape causes it. Either way, shutters and blinds really couldn’t be further apart on the window treatment spectrum. Here’s the basic breakdown of the two.
| What’s the difference? | Blinds | Shutters |
| Can they block out the entire window? | No | Yes |
| Structure | Hangs from cord | Solid frame attached to window frame |
| Lifetime | Usually break down or deteriorate after 2-3 years. | Can 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 horizontal parts called? | Slats | Louvers |
Myth: “All window coverings are similar in energy efficiency.”
As the “Blinds vs. Shutters” table illustrated, window coverings can vary tremendously on how energy efficient they are. The shape, material, and construction can all play a huge part in how energy efficient a window treatment is.
On the lowest end of the spectrum you have no window treatment whatsoever. Offering only slightly more energy efficiency are your everyday department store mini blinds. More energy efficient than those are draperies and heavier fabric window treatments. Getting into somewhat noticeable territory we have the majority of wood shutters and cellular shades, made to offer sun-blocking protection and heat reduction. But far beyond all of these are Polywood plantation shutters, constructed to both reflect and block thermal heat from moving through your window.
No More Shutter Myths
If you feel like you’re drowning in an ocean of misinformation when it comes to shutters, we can throw you a lifeline. Call Sunburst Shutters San Jose today at 916-542-1305 to speak to one of our experts and schedule a complimentary in-home consultation to find your perfect shutter or window treatment today.
