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Why Some Homeowners In Charlotte Confuse Plantation Blinds And Plantation Shutters

April 19, 2016

When Charlotte homeowners ask us for a quote, they might accidentally ask for plantation blinds. They don’t realize that plantation blinds isn’t the right name of the window covering they‘re thinking of.

When people say “plantation blinds”, they‘re referring to plantation shutters.

“Plantation” is commonly associated with interior shutters. Blinds aren’t. And the word “plantation” describes the size and style of the horizontal louvers.

Blinds have thin horizontal slats that most people call slats. But these slats are not wide enough or thick enough to be considered “plantation” style.

Some consumers and even blind companies call blinds “plantation,” when that term has historically been associated with interior louvered shutters. Plantation style shutters might be mistaken for blinds from a distance. But the differences between these two window treatments are numerous.

How Plantation Shutters Differ From Blinds

Kitchen windows covered with blinds
A kitchen window with plantation shutters 

Plantation Shutters Are More Durable Than Blinds

Premium plantation shutters can be built from reclaimed wood, synthetic wood, or hardwood. Any of these materials make for a sturdy window treatment that outlasts blinds by decades. And when you buy shutters with UV stabilizer-infused paint, their color won’t yellow.

Unlike shutters, blinds have a series of cords that hold the slats up. And most have a rod to tilt the slats. Those two components, in addition to the thin slats, are notorious for breaking.

Blinds are also ineffective at giving you control over temperature and brightness. And they are likely to yellow over extended periods of sun exposure, which is not the case with quality shutters.

They’re Highly Energy Efficient

The material a window treatment is made from greatly affects its energy efficiency. Plantation shutters, with their synthetic wood and wood louvers, are known to be the most energy-efficient window treatment in Charlotte. And it’s Polywood®’s exclusive weatherstripping that’s made to help block off airflow. That’s how Polywood is 1600% more energy efficient than an aluminum blind.

When you close a blind, you can see holes where the cords are. The slats aren’t tight against each other. And there’s space on both sides of the blind where air can flow. These problems make blinds less energy efficient than well-built plantation shutters.

They Accentuate The Shape Of Your Window

Another thing to think about is that a rectangle is the only shape blinds come in. And if your window are triangular, octagonal, circular, or arched, blinds will cover up the shape rather than highlight it.

Plantation shutters on the other hand are perfect for specialty-shaped windows. They are custom made to every corner, arch, and angle. The finished product is a functional window treatment that looks beautiful and makes the window shape pop.

They Give Your House A Custom Look

Yes, you can buy blinds in a variety of finishes, colors, and textures. They can even be motorized and cordless. But however you mix and match their options, blinds don’t look as custom as shutters do.

Plantation shutters in Charlotte are available in reclaimed wood, Polywood, and Ovation® wood. And there’s 300,000+ ways to customize these window treatments so they fit your personal taste.

Usually, shutters are mounted with a frame that accentuates the corners and highlights the shutter panels. The plantation shutters become a fashion statement in and of themselves. And they become a permanent feature that adds to your home’s appraisal value.

One unique way for custom window treatments is plantationshutters made from reclaimed wood. No two shutter panels - no two shutter louvers - have identical holes, colors, or marks. It’s the ultimate custom window treatment you’ve been looking for in the Charlotte area.

Schedule A Consultation Before You Purchase Window Treatments In Charlotte

Doing your research is the first step in selecting the best window treatments. That’s how you figured out the differences between blinds and plantation shutters. So before you order window treatments, set up a consultation with one of our team members in Charlotte. We’ll bring samples of products right to your doorstep and help you in selecting the one that works best for your windows. Even if you call it plantation blinds, we’ll know what you mean. Call us at 980-231-1116 or fill out the form below to get started!