When choosing window coverings for your home, you may come to find that there are many more options than you initially thought. If curtains are not for you, you still have the choice between blinds or shutters. While a decision may be made primarily based upon aesthetics, there are several functional differences to consider too. In this article, we will be delving into the differences between shutters and blinds and looking at the unique characteristics of each.
Blinds
Blinds are a form of internal window covering which come in a huge variety of styles and materials. Blinds are only attached to the top of your window and hang down freely to cover the windowpane. Generally, they open vertically and are controlled by cord pulls; however, horizontally opening options are available. Blinds can be opened as much, or as little, as you wish, making them a versatile option for achieving privacy and admittance of light. Slatted blinds – such as Venetians and vertical blinds – offer the greatest control as the slats can be oriented as you wish, letting in light whilst still giving privacy.
What is the difference between shutters and binds?
Pros:
- Vast range of styles – e.g. Venetian, vertical, Roman, roller, pleated – and materials possible
- Very affordable
- Options to suit any room – e.g. blackout blinds for a bedroom, aluminium Venetians for an often steam filled bathroom
- Variable light admittance
- Can be fitted to unusually shaped windows
- Take up very little space
Cons:
- Quite susceptible to wear and tear – e.g. worn blind cords
- Fabrics can fade over time
- Depending on style, can require regular cleaning
Shutters
Shutters are window coverings which can be installed internally or externally on your windows – for the best comparison to blinds, we shall consider internally fixed shutters.
Shutters are a permanently fixed, precisely fitted window covering which are attached directly to the window frame. Shutters are made from sturdier, thicker materials than blinds, often wood. They operate similarly to Venetian blinds in that they are made up of horizontal slats which can be rotated, allowing good light control. The controlling mechanism for the slats is generally a rod. Shutter panels can be opened completely and will swing away horizontally from the window, like opening a door.
Pros:
- Highly durable
- Timeless appeal, won’t need regular updating
- Can provide improved insulation, keeping your home warmer in winter and cooler in summer
- Great light control and air filtration
- Rod operating mechanism is safer than the cord or loop option on most blinds
- Can create total privacy when closed
- A more unusual window covering, makes your house more individual and can even add value to your home
Cons:
- Can be relatively expensive
- Take up more space than blinds
- Can block light flow more than blinds, so are best used on larger windows
Paul James Blinds give customers a huge range of premier window covering options to choose from. We offer beautiful blinds in numerous styles, materials and finishes, as well as several styles of high quality window shutters. Our experts provide a bespoke fitting service to ensure your window coverings sit seamlessly on your window. For a blinds and shutters specialist around the areas of Colchester, Sudbury, Braintree and Bury St Edmunds, get in touch with Paul James Blinds today.
