If you are looking to complete a room in your house with shutters or blinds but cannot decide between the two, you’ve come to the right place. The main distinguisher between them is their structure. Shutters are solid and fixed to a frame around your windows, while blinds are fitted above your window and hang down. In this blog on blinds vs shutters, we look at the benefits of both options.
Blinds
Venetians are a great choice for light and privacy control
Blinds are either made from slats or fabric that can be rolled or folded. Blinds are often controlled by tilt cords or wands, however there are now electric blinds, which eliminate the need for any pull method. The most common style of blinds you might have come across include Roman, Venetian, roller, pleated, vertical and electric blinds.
The main benefits of blinds include:
Affordability – blinds are considered a more affordable option, however, there are also premium blinds, such as electric blinds, which have a higher price tag due to their sophisticated technology.
Customisable – there are a wide range of options when it comes to the fabric types, colours and prints to suit any room, as well as materials with waterproof, thermal and blackout properties.
Softer appeal – as well as being stylish, fabric blinds add a soft and cosy feel to a room.
Easily changeable – if you change the look of a room, you can easily replace your blinds with new ones to match.
Light control – slatted Venetian blinds allow you to angle the slats to control the amount of light coming into your room.
Versatile – blinds can be used on their own or paired with another window dressing, such as curtains.
Shutters
shutters are perfect for bay windows
Shutters are mostly made from wood and have individual louvres (also called slats). The louvres come in different sizes and can be tilted to adjust the amount of light. Shutters are a permanent feature available in different styles, including full height shutters, café style shutters, bifold shutters and tier on tier shutters.
The main benefits of shutters include:
Durable – due to their robust composition, shutters are more durable and have a long lifespan. On average, and if maintained, shutters can last anywhere between 10-20 years.
Excellent insulators – shutters provide an extra layer of insulation to keep your home warm in the winter and cool in the summer. This could ultimately lead to a reduction in your utility bills.
Not just for windows – shutters can fit any size window as they are made bespoke, however, shutters can be installed on doors too, such as patio doors.
Stylish – shutters offer a stylish finish to decorate your room both internally and externally, their clean lines provide a modern look that suits all types of properties.
Privacy guaranteed – if you live on a busy street, you can adjust the shutter louvres to angle them or keep them closed to prevent prying eyes from looking in.
Custom colours – shutters can be crafted from different woods or PVC and come in different stained finishes or paint colours. You can also choose a custom colour if you have a particular shade in mind to match your interiors.
When choosing between blinds and shutters, you should consider the room you are decorating and what will suit the overall look you are trying to achieve. You might also have a budget in mind, so this could impact your decision. Whilst shutters generally cost more than blinds, they do last longer. So, if you are someone that likes to change your interiors more frequently, blinds may be the better option.
If you are still unsure which option is best for you, a member of our team can advise.
Book a free consultation to discuss your window dressing requirements here.
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