When you think of window treatments, drapes and curtains are probably the first things to leap to mind. In many Canadian regions they are the most prevalent, but in recent years that has been changing. People have rediscovered the beauty and functionality of interior shutters and are upgrading their current window treatments.
Interior Shutters vs. Shades & Blinds
Shutters have a few distinct advantages over shades and blinds. Interior shutters provide the best light control and privacy of any window covering. Shutters close tight, which nearly eliminates light gaps. Not only do they provide privacy and light control, they also insulate better than horizontal blinds or shades. This added insulation saves energy. Blinds and shades do offer privacy and light control but not the same level as shutters.
Shades and blinds are less expensive in short-term cost than shutters. In the long run though, opting for shutters is more cost effective. They help save money in energy costs and quality shutters can last a lifetime – blinds and shades will wear out and need to be replaced before long. The individual shutter panels can open to either side, while blinds can only be retracted to the top of the window.
There are a variety of materials your shutters can be made from – real wood, synthetic, and composite are the three main categories. Composite shutters are made from vinyl or other synthetic materials that look like real wood but can last longer and cost less. These are also called faux shutters.
Shutters are more durable, strong, formal, and create more of a statement as part of your interior décor than blinds or shades. Interior shutters are sectioned into panels that are connected to make units and perfectly fit your window. The number of shutter panels used depends on the size of the window. The shutter louvers are rotated using a tilt bar to place the louvers in a desired location, unlike the string system used with blinds. Fine shutters can also be made of hardwoods for durability and energy flow. Window shutters may also be constructed from a composite Poly material for environments that require extra durability.
