When it comes to choosing window treatments for your home, it can be very daunting after seeing all the different varieties that are available. Even if you’ve narrowed it down to blinds and shutters, there are still quite a few types to choose from, all with their benefits and disadvantages. And depending on the room, you may also opt to go with a different variety that will suit the room or situation better. Worry not, we’ve broken it down for you to help you decide.

Blinds

Blinds are classified as ‘hard’ window coverings. To keep it simple, blinds can be split into two groups – slat blinds (verticals and venetians) and full cover blinds (rollers and honeycombs). Blinds are suitable for every room in the house. It’s more about the type and material that you choose for each room. For example, fabric and wooden blinds are not good in bathrooms because of the moisture.

Pros

• Comes in a huge variety of designs, styles, and colours so you’re bound to find the perfect fit for your home.
• Can be constructed from a wide selection of materials, so you can get your blinds to be suited to any environment
• Cost effective (it may vary for custom blinds such as size and the materials used for it)
• Versatile in letting in different degrees of light
• Motorised blinds are available for increased child safety
• Blackout and thermal linings are available for privacy and adapting to seasonal changes
• Easy to maintain and clean

Cons

• Less sturdy than other options, such as shutters
• Has a shorter lifespan and will be changed more frequently, compared to shutters
• Some materials used to make blinds such as fabric and wood can be damaged from UV rays or too much moisture
• Can be visually overwhelming because of the thin, horizontal lines especially with sunlight coming in
• Non-motorised blinds can be a safety risk for small children with the cords and chains if not properly stored

Shutters

Shutters are considered one of the more ‘fancy’ or ‘elite’ window furnishings, and they make a timeless addition to your home. Originating from Mediterranean countries, shutters are sturdy and are aesthetically pleasing as window treatments. This style is continuously popular for its ability to make you control how much light and fresh air is let in, and which direction it goes.

Pros

• Shutters are unique structures and visually attractive that adds value to your home
• No cords or chains needed, perfect for child safety
• Shutters are excellent insulators, adapts well during stubborn weather such as hot summers and cold winters
• Wide range of materials including wood and PVC
• Highly durable and long lasting, can last up to 10x longer than blinds
• Easier to maintain and clean than blinds, just needs a quick wipe down with a cloth and cleaning materials
• Excellent in controlling light and ventilation, also without worrying about it flapping around in the breeze like blinds
• Can be fixed thus making it perfect for doors

Cons

• Considerably more expensive than blinds especially when its customised specifically for your home
• Shutters tend to take up more space compared to blinds and you may not have enough space in your room to allow them to open. Always consider the placement of your walls and furniture
• The weight of some shutters may be too heavy making it unsuitable for some window types
• Shutters takes longer to make and install in your home
• Shutters are not quite as versatile as blinds when it comes to variety of styles and designs
  

Personal Preference

There is no wrong or right answer when it comes to your choice of window treatment, as long as it fits your home and your lifestyle. Both options offer benefits to homeowners that may be more suitable. The bottom line is that the final decision comes down to your personal preference and style. Whichever you choose, selecting a high quality product will always be helpful in the long run as it lasts longer along with regular cleaning and maintenance.

There you have it, the types of blinds and shutters along with their pros and cons. If you’re ready to start designing and/or building your new home – get in touch with Lofty today to get started.