Shutters vs. Blinds: Which Is Right for Your Home?

specialty shutters

You might be surprised to find out that approximately 30% of a home’s heating energy is lost through its windows. This is why most homeowners opt to use specialty shutters or blinds to maximize the insulation in their homes while maintaining their style. But have you ever wondered if there are any differences between blinds and shutters? And if so, which is the better option between the two? This is why we did some investigating in this article on the benefits of both. Read until the end to find out what our verdict is.

Shutters

The most significant difference between shutters and blinds is that specialty shutters are mounted on a frame that will be fitted into your window frame. This ensures better light control in comparison to blinds. However, shutters do not block out the sun completely. As a result, you may have to integrate both your shutters and blinds to achieve maximum light control and efficient insulation.

Pros

  • They’re a unique feature that can increase the value of your home.
  • They are low maintenance and energy-efficient.

Cons

  • They can cost more than blinds.
  • They are dependent on the window style.
  • They take up more window space.

Blinds

This is the most popular and versatile solution for light control. It is more easily attainable in comparison to specialty shutters. Moreover, the prices vary and blinds are mostly affordable to purchase and install in your home. Blinds are generally the most practical and convenient option for most homes, and they come in a variety of stylish colors that can match the decor of your home.

Pros

  • The materials used to manufacture blinds can be suitable for any environment.
  • They are more affordable than specialty shutters.
  • They are easily adjustable to offer different light and shade options.

Cons

  • They require constant cleaning in comparison to shutters.
  • Some materials are easily damaged by extreme weather, UV ray exposure, and moisture.
  • They require regular maintenance and need to be replaced sooner than shutters.

The best window treatment option depends on you, the homeowner. What matters in the end is what your personal preference is. However, quality should always trump price to ensure that you get the most out of your money. Blinds and specialty shutters offer homeowners a myriad of advantages, but they also have their disadvantages. It is important to choose your desired window treatment based on your needs rather than what’s popular.

Window and Door Trends to Watch in 2021

windows and doors

The interior design industry generates $10 billion in revenue annually, and this is clear proof that homeowners are trying their best to design their homes with recent trends. A house has various areas which require enhancement, such as windows and doors and other house exterior and interior parts.

Windows and doors play a significant role in a home’s looks and functionality. Their designs and styles are changing daily, so homeowners should also embrace the recent innovations. So, which are the current window and door styles and trends?

Large Windows and Wide Doors

A wide door gives the homeowner freedom and convenience to enter freely, with lots of room for grocery bags, luggage, or even a bicycle. Choose the door dimensions according to the size of your house; oversized doors best fit big houses.

Large windows bring in enough natural lighting and ventilation. The current trend is spanning the entire wall or combining windows to make floor-to-ceiling windows with expanded glass.

Color

Those who love bright door colors can use bright red, Caribbean blue, sunny yellow, or saffron. You can paint the frame the same color or change it according to your preference. Cool and calm colors are grey, green, blue, jojoba, or grey-blue.

White trims are the most popular color theme for windows in most homes. The current color trends for adventurous homeowners are bright colors such as red and turquoise. Or make the frames and casing blend with the surrounding walls.

Noise Control

With the increasing working at home trends, most homeowners are looking for windows and doors with reduced noise. Replacing your old windows with higher performance windows will create a quieter indoor space.

Materials

You can choose steel or glass doors according to your preferences. Most homeowners in cottages with large fences prefer glass doors to get adequate natural light. Steel doors are also suitable for homes and apartments.

Models

Currently, various door designs are worth considering. To accommodate multiple formats, you can use multiple interior door designs for each room. The commons ones include pocket doors (commonly used in bathrooms), sliding doors (for balconies), and pivot doors. Windows designs include acoustic windows, wall windows, corner unit windows, and counter windows.

The 2021 windows and doors trends are based on simplicity, creativity, and expansion of space. Therefore, homeowners can choose from either theme and make their homes look stylish and eye-catching.