Plantation Shutter Myths Debunked
Our Miami shutter team has busted a few shutter myths before. During our previous myth-debunking trip, we looked at a few common misunderstandings homeowners have regarding interior shutters in Miami.
Well, the Sunburst Shutters Miami experts are back to set it straight on a few more myths we’ve been hearing from homeowners in and around Florida. Let’s jump right in.
Myth: “Plantation Shutters Only Work In Southern Houses.”
When some homeowners see the phrase “plantation shutters,” their minds stick to the image of a giant, sprawling southern house surrounded by plains. Although it’s true that the shutters are named for that particular place and time, plantation shutters in fact had huge popularity way before and way after 19th Century Southern America.
However, plantation shutters offer those very same benefits to any style of home. Craftsman houses can use shutters, just as Tudor homes, Mid-Century Modern houses, and even cottage houses can.
Myth#2: “My House Style Won’t Work With Shutters Is Too Eclectic For Shutters.”
Because plantation shutters have enjoyed widespread use over several decades, some homeowners may have gotten the impression that shutters look somewhat boring. A previous customer once told us that they thought that their home was “too eclectic” for shutters, which was a tad confusing–since shutters are probably the only window treatment that can accentuate any style.
Myth #3: “Blinds And Shutters Are Just About The Same Thing.”
For some reason, there happens to be a lot of confusion over the difference between blinds and shutters. It might have to do with the confusion between “louvers” and “slats,” or it’s the similarity in shape that causes the confusion. Either way, shutters and blinds are pretty easy to distinguish when you look at their features. 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 mounted on to window frame |
| Lifespan | Can break down or deteriorate after 2-3 years. | Will 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 | Can fit any specialty shape windows. |
| What are the adjustable parts called? | Slats | Louvers |
Myth: “All window treatments offer about the same energy efficiency.”
As the “Blinds vs. Shutters” table shows, window coverings can differ tremendously on how much energy efficiency they offer. The structure, material, and construction will all have a big impact in how much energy efficiency a window treatment offers.
At the bottom rung of energy efficiency is leaving your window completely bare. Offering just a tad more energy efficiency are your typical off the shelf mini blinds. Up a little further on the spectrum are drapes and sturdy fabric window coverings. Going further into energy efficient territory are most wood shutters and cellular shades, built to offer UV protection and temperature reduction. But the real king of the hill in energy efficiency is Polywood plantation shutters, designed to both reflect and block sunlight and outside heat from moving through your window.
No More Shutter Myths
If you feel like you’re swimming in an ocean of misinformation about shutters, we can throw you a lifeline. Call Sunburst Shutters Miami today at 305-520-7515 to talk to one of our pros and schedule a free in-home consultation to find your perfect shutter or window treatment today.
