What is Better Shutters or Venetian Blinds?

Shutters Versus Venetian Blinds

We are often asked which window dressing to choose whether shutters are better or Venetian Blinds. In this article I am going to try explaining the differences and the pros and cons of each type of window covering.

White Full height Shutters

Plantation shutters

Plantation shutters are an elegant and extremely popular option for covering windows. With a variety of colours and materials and the added advantage of being able to open some of the louvres separately from others mean that shutters are very adaptable and light levels can easily be adjusted. 

Plantation shutters are made from several different materials suitable for different rooms in the house for instance in the bathroom you might require a fully waterproof shutter however that might not be necessary in a bedroom. In this way shutters are easily customizable 2 the individual situation or room. Shutters are also available in a variety of different colours and finishes including painted and stained which makes them easy to match with current decor.

 Shutters are a permanent feature at the window they have individual hinged doors which, when opened, frequently stick into the room. It is often more practical to leave them closed and just tilt the louvres. They do offer great insulation both audio and thermal helping to keep the rooms warmer in the winter and cooler in the summer.

In addition, shutters are easy to keep clean as the louvres don’t bounce around like they do with Venetian blinds. This makes them an ideal choice in homes where family members have allergies.

Plantation shutters are child safe by design they don’t have any dangling cords or chains to operate them, so they are ideal in children’s bedrooms playrooms or any room where there is a child regularly present.

White Wood effect Faux Wood Venetian Blinds with Tapes

Venetian blinds

Venetian Blinds have long been a fantastic option for window coverings especially where privacy and light are a factor. Easy to tilt Venetian blinds can be partially open or closed completely for total privacy. But the big advantage is that when wanted Venetian blind slats can be pulled right up to open the full view of the window without having any panels sticking out into the room.

Available in a variety of colours and finishes Venetian blinds come in three types aluminium venetians, faux wood venetians and real wood Venetian blinds. The most popular shutter like Venetian blinds are the faux wood and real wood options. These can be made to look more closely like Shutters when you have a decorative tape over the ladder cords.

Wooden Venetian Blinds also offer thermal insulation, although there is more areas around the blind where drafts can penetrate than with a Shutter.

Probably, however, the most common reason for people choosing Venetian blinds over shutters is that they are more cost effective, making them easier to budget for.

If you can’t decide between Venetian Blinds and Shutters, why don’t you pop down to our Wokingham Showroom to take a look at them for yourself. That might help you make the decision.