Which is better, wood blinds or plantation shutters? Plantation shutters and wood blinds both offer lots of benefits, but deciding between the two for your home’s unique needs can be tough! This guide uncovers the similarities and distinctions between plantation shutters and wood blinds, their characteristics, expenses, types, and insights for the ideal home complement.
When deciding between blinds and plantation shutters, consider your budget, durability, longevity, available space in the window frame. Plantation shutters are costlier, and need additional space when installing, but they are long-term window treatments.
While blinds typically last 4 to 5 years, shutters can last 25 years or more with proper care. Plantation shutters also provide unparalleled energy efficiency, cutting down on your home’s heating and cooling cost. Both types of window treatments come with a cordless option and can be child safe. Overall, plantation shutters win out over blinds.
The typical cost of plantation shutters is about $2,000, including the material, shipping, and the installation costs. The standard prices of plantation shutters range from about $8,000 to $,25,000. On the other hand, the cost of wood blinds is $200 to $1,000 per window installed.
Wood blinds and plantation shutters are two types of window treatments for your home, office, or other building. However, they differ in their material, decorative appeal, and functional potential. Here is a comprehensive guide about how wood blinds are compared to plantation shutters. It also includes similarities and differences between these two types of window treatments.
Scroll on to learn more about plantation shutters vs wood blinds.
Similarities between Wood Blinds and Plantation Shutters
Wood blinds and plantation shutters are similar to each other in several ways.
Material
Both faux wood blinds and plantation shutters for window treatments are made from synthetic materials that mimic the look and feel of true wood. However, wood blinds and woven wood blinds are made from real wood and woven fiber.
Durability
Wood blinds and plantation shutters are both durable and long-lasting window treatments. So, they are a good investment for homeowners.
Insulation
Both plantation shutters and wood blinds provide insulation and they can help you to reduce energy bills by keeping the interior temperature consistent.
Light Control
Both window treatments can be raised, lowered, or adjusted to control or regulate the amount of light entering your room.
Privacy
Imitation wood blinds and plantation shutters both provide privacy and can be opened, closed, or adjusted to allow varying levels of light while maintaining privacy.
Maintenance
Both types of window treatments are easy to clean and maintain with the help of some DIY tips.
Style
Wood blinds (including real wood blinds, faux wood blinds, and woven wood blinds) and plantation shutters for windows can add a stylish and timeless look to any room in your home. So, installing either of these window treatments will add value to your home.
Differences Between Wood Blinds and Plantation Shutters for Windows
While there are some similarities between wood blinds and plantation shutters for windows, there do exist differences between them. It is important to consider these dissimilarities when choosing between them. For example, plantation shutters are typically more expensive window treatments than both real wood and synthetic wood blinds but offer greater durability and a classic, elegant look. On the other hand, wood blinds are a more affordable option that can still provide insulation and a stylish look and feel.
Here are some of the major differences between wood blinds and plantation shutters:
Construction
Wood blinds for windows are constructed with horizontal slats that are suspended on cords. On the other hand, plantation shutters are made from solid panels that are mounted on hinges.
Light Control
Plantation shutters can provide more precise light control than wood blinds, as the panels can be opened, closed, or adjusted independently of one another.
Long-Lasting
Plantation shutters are typically more durable than wood blinds, as they are made of solid material and can withstand more wear and tear over time.
Insulation Potential
While both wood blinds and plantation shutters can provide insulation, plantation shutters are generally considered to be more effective at blocking out heat and cold due to their solid construction.
Cost
Plantation shutters are generally more expensive than wood blinds due to their higher-quality materials and construction.
Elegance and Sophistication
While both window treatments can add a stylish touch to your room, plantation shutters are often considered to be more elegant and sophisticated. On the other hand, wood blinds can provide a more traditional or contemporary look depending on the interior decor style of the room.
Installation Procedure for Wood Blinds and Plantation Shutters
Both plantation shutters and wood blinds follow almost the same installation procedure. For example, in both cases, you need to
- Measure the window size for inside and outside mounts.
- Secondly, simple tools are required, such as screws, screwdrivers, mounting brackets, a steel tape measure, etc.
- Finally, you need to check the operation of each type of window treatment by raising, lowering, or adjusting the slats.
Safety Options for Kids and Pets
Both types of window treatments, i.e., plantation shutters and wood blinds, can be equipped with a cordless lift system for the safety of young children and pets in your home. They support different cordless lifts, such as motorized and smart-home-control lift systems.
Conclusion
Summing up, the choice between wood blinds and plantation shutters will depend on your taste, needs, preferences, and budget. While plantation shutters may be a larger upfront investment, they can provide long-lasting durability and energy efficiency benefits. On the other hand, real or synthetic wood blinds can be a more affordable option that still offers some insulation and a stylish look.
FAQs
Are wooden blinds as good as shutters?
Wooden blinds and shutters both have their pros and cons. Shutters are more durable and attractive but more expensive. On the other hand, wooden blinds can be as aesthetically pleasing as shutters at a lower price. Overall, wooden blinds provide the benefits of plantation shutters in the terms of finished look, sustainable material, without the disadvantages of shutters, like additional cost and spatial requirements.
What are the disadvantages of plantation shutters?
- The first major disadvantage of plantation shutters is that they are available at a much higher price point than blinds, curtains, and drapes.
- Plantation shutters are ineffective and tricky to use if you have tilt-in windows.
- The average lead time for plantation shutters is 2 to 3 weeks.
- They may not suit every style of interior decor.
- Plantation shutters can obstruct your views of the beautiful outside scenery.
- Require regular cleaning.
Are plantation shutters more expensive than blinds?
Yes. Blinds are typically more affordable than plantation shutters and offer a wider range of colors and fabric options. If you want more freedom in creating the perfect interior decor, blinds are definitely the better option. Shutters are a more costly investment but for that additional cost, you’ll get impressive durability and style.
Are wooden blinds cheaper than shutters?
Yes! The primary reason homeowners choose to install wooden blinds is that they are cost-effective, offer more versatility, and offer view through. Wooden blinds are cheaper to make than shutters which keeps their retail price lower and more affordable for customers. High-end wooden blinds can provide privacy, darkness, and effective light control.
Should I get plantation shutters or blinds?
It all depends on your needs, preferences, and, of course, budget. Window blinds are less expensive than plantation shutters. However, plantation shutters are a more durable, long-term investment that can enhance your home’s value, aesthetic, and energy efficiency. On the other hand, shutters are heavier than blinds and need more space. Think about your budget, window style, and functional requirements when choosing between plantation shutters and blinds.
Need More Help?
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