Which One Is Better? Shutters or Blinds

Shutters or Blinds

As you’re contemplating blinds and shutters, you may wonder what the main differences are between each? How do I decide? Are there any pros and cons? Investing in the right window treatments might seem overwhelming at first. But here are a few tips to help you narrow the selection process.

Comparison: Blinds and Shutters

Blinds are window coverings made up of slats. Curtains can be raised entirely, or when lowered, the slats can be rotated to let in more or less light. Shutters are stable coverings that surround your windows with casement and have slats you can turn for light control and hinges for opening and closing. Here are a few more details to help you decide: shutters vs blinds?

In the past few years, many families have been Googling- how to choose the right roller shutters for several reasons. As compared to blinds, roller shutters offer far better insulation. This is particularly useful if you live in harsh climactic conditions and are set between extremes. Roller shutters are also far more secure and safe than blinds, which do not have many functions apart from contributing to the aesthetic look and feel of the windows and letting light come inside. 

The Blind Truth About Blinds

Blinds come in both horizontal and vertical slats and have the primary function of controlling the amount of light coming through. And since they can be made from a wide range of materials, pricing on window blinds can also vary. Real wood blinds tend to be on the higher end of the spectrum and can be stained or painted to create a warm tone. What’s nice is you can customize wood blinds with a wide selection of finishes, slat sizes, upgrades, and decorative tapes. Bamboo blinds, made from grass, are a sustainable option with the appearance of natural wood.

You can also go with faux wood blinds that are guaranteed to withstand heat and humidity but still have the luxurious look of wood blinds with realistic grain patterns. Some faux blinds are guaranteed never to fade, yellow, warp, or bow, even in extreme temperatures and direct sunlight — something to consider if you have a lot of sun coming into your room or live in a hot climate.

Mini blinds are on the more affordable end of the price spectrum and can be made from aluminum or vinyl in unique finishes and textures, from metallic and pearlescent to matte. The great thing is that they’re quite durable and available in hundreds of colors. Pair metal slats with natural wood accents for a striking look, or mix and match colors to create something unique.

Vertical blinds offer a lot of light control and come in various styles for more oversized windows or patio doors, so they’ll work with both large and small expenses. And with so many colors in a wide range of materials, they’ll coordinate with any décor.

Shutters, a Premium Furniture

If you really want to increase the value of your home, shutters are the way to go (consider them premium furniture for your windows!) — so they’re also the more expensive of the two window treatments. Besides that, they’re very durable and provide excellent energy efficiency and sound absorption. And what’s really lovely is that there are so many styles of shutters — so whether your home is contemporary, art deco, or 50s ranch, you’ll find a shutter that works. Added bonus: since shutters are naturally cordless, they’re safer if you have small children or pets.

Have odd-shaped windows? Shutters are available in sunburst and horizontal louvers to fit any window, from arches and angles to hexagons. There are also options ranging from natural wood and hybrid shutters to faux wood shutters.

Crafted from genuine hardwood, real wood shutters in rich tones have the feel of custom cabinetry. And with so many stains and paint finishes, you can create just the right look. To help preserve your wood shutters, make sure they’re made with a finishing process that will not only bring out the beauty of the wood but also provide long-lasting protection.

Hybrid shutters blend the beauty of genuine hardwood with the strength of modern-day materials to keep your shutters from warping and bowing over time. You can choose from a wide range of colors that resemble genuine hardwood. If you live in a hot, humid climate or are considering shutters for your bathroom or kitchen, UV-resistant poly satin shutters look like finely painted shutters. Still, they’re guaranteed to withstand extreme heat and moisture.

Final Thoughts

Before making your final selection, check your light, privacy, energy efficiency requirements, and views. You may want blinds or shutters with larger slats or louvers if you have terrific views. If much sun comes into your room, use blinds or shutters made from faux wood. So which will it be? Shutters vs blinds? You can’t go wrong with either choice.

Related post: 6 Tips to Help You Choose the Right Window Blinds for Your Home