Plantation Shutters vs. Blinds

Are you embarking on a new home improvement project? If so, there are lots of options to explore when it comes to making the best investment possible for your window treatments. In this article, we will compare two of the most popular options — plantation shutters and blinds —  while advising you on how to make the best choice for your home. 

Benefits of Plantation Shutters 

Plantation shutters offer a classic blend of functionality and elegance to any home window treatment. Our plantation shutters are hand-made and crafted from solid wood that can be customized in style and color to best suit your design needs. Plantation shutters make it easy to control light, privacy, and airflow into your home and are perfect for anyone who wants more autonomy over the function of their windows.

The traditional shutter is most common, often designed to be full-length or single hung, this shutter includes one set of panels that goes from the top to the bottom of a window. Shenandoah Shutters offers custom home installation and creation to provide privacy and protect the furnishings in your home from harmful direct sunlight, while still allowing natural light to pour through. Plantation shutters add uniqueness to any space and are built to last, making them a great long-term investment choice. 

How Blinds Work

Blinds are another common solution used to help with privacy and light control in a home. Usually, blinds are operated by pulling a rod or string that allows you to open and close the panels, depending on your needs. Blinds are placed directly over the window and are a common choice for bathrooms or kitchens, where moisture-resistant window coverings are essential. However, blinds do not provide the blackout effect that plantation shutters do, especially when installed in a bedroom.

The Difference Between Plantations Shutters and Blinds 

There are a few key differences to note when comparing plantation shutters and blinds. The primary difference between the two is the way in which they are built to the window as a treatment. Typically, plantation shutters are built into the window frame itself, while blinds are installed inside or above the window. Plantation shutters also lack the long cords that often come with blinds, which make them safer for a home with children. Since blinds are quite a bit cheaper than plantation shutters, homeowners are more likely to replace blinds on a more frequent basis. 

How To Choose the Best Option for Your Home 

As we mentioned above, there are pros and cons to each! When comparing the two, it’s best to examine the long-term benefits when it comes to your investment. Usually, blinds only last for about 4-5 years after installation. They do however have a lower price tag compared to shutters, due to the lower-quality materials and temporary installation style. Shutters can last 25 years or more with proper care and maintenance.

Many homeowners choose shutters over blinds for heat retention reasons, too. Shutters are more energy-efficient than blinds since they are built to keep heat in and ensure the cold temperatures stay out of your home. This will result in a cost reduction of your energy bill since you won’t need to crank up the heat as often due to lack of insulation. 

Do you think plantation shutters are the right call for your home? Contact Shenandoah Shutters today to learn more about our shutters or to order some of your own!