Pros & Cons Of Window Shutters
When deciding on window treatments for your home, shutters are an option that often get overlooked, though they can be quite practical depending on your needs. When I recommend shutters to clients, I often specify plantation-style shutters with wide louvers (at least 3.5”). Generally, I also recommend matching the shutters to the trim color or stain so they look built-in and blend seamlessly with the woodwork.
Ready for the pros & cons? Let’s go!
Pros:
They offer privacy - you can close the louvers completely or tilt them at almost any angle. If you angle them downward, you can see out, but others can’t see in from the outside (while still letting light in!)
They allow you light control - you won’t get full black-out, but you can close the louvers and darken the room quite a bit, or flatten them out and let light in - or anywhere in between.
They are available in a variety of materials and finishes, including custom. They are available in vinyl which is great for bathrooms where privacy is important and vinyl is great with water, but you can also get wood shutters for a more elevated look in other areas
You can layer decorative treatments over top. Shutters can be used as a base layer of window treatments similarly to a shade, with cornices and panels to soften and add a decorative layer.
They can be opened for window cleaning
Cons:
You will always have a semi-obstructed view - while you can tilt them to be able to let light in and see out, you will always have the horizontal louvers there. This can be a dealbreaker for some.
They are screwed onto the window frame, so they don’t go on and off as you wish
They are not truly blackout, so if you want or need that in a bedroom or media room, you’ll have to layer other treatments on top, or choose something else entirely.
Because they are not fabric they are not the most decorative option and will not help with sound absorption
With all that being said, the top places I put shutters in are powder rooms & bathrooms (especially when there are windows over tubs), guest bedrooms and playrooms.
Would you select a shutter in your home?
Do you need help deciding if shutters would work in your home, or if another window treatment style would be better? Abode Virtual Design would love to be a part of your next design project. Head to the shop page on our website for more information!
