As long as there have been windows that look out to the streets, there have been debates surrounding the perfect coverings for them. The appeal, value to the home, cost, maintenance, and overall efficacy of each option has been talked about, discussed, advertised and immeasurably argued over for years.
While there is always a case for both sides, when the facts get boiled down into the utilities and overall aesthetical advantages – plantation shutters are still the classic choice for most people. You may be wondering why this conclusion has been met so easily, well hold onto your hats, we’re going to explore some of the common motifs in the debate surrounding the blinds and shutters and come to the conclusion that some classics will never go out of style.
Security
This is a no-brainer if we’re discussing the principles of run-of-the-mill blinds and properly installed plantation shutters. The security factors of plantation shutters (particularly if there is an element of metal or PVC involved in the materials being used) cannot be denied or beaten by fabric alternatives.
In fact, the overall build of these materials works as a secondary window in a security respect. While not insulated, it provides a secondary barrier that is a little more overt and frank than the fabric alternatives and thus wins this point with relative ease.
Aesthetics
The aesthetics of a uniform shutters set up on a home is absolutely breathtaking. Many realtors have noted that the value of a home can be taken from the exterior appearance of the property itself, which lends this to be an easy win for the shutter crowd.
While there is more variety and flexibility with the shade and design of blinds, there can be no substitute for a solid look and thematic aesthetic that can be derived from plantation shutters. Even saying this, there are more options than ever in terms of customisable and sturdy builds of shutters that are beginning to catch up to the fabric crowd.
Cost
While blinds are overall cheaper to purchase and maintain, their value will disintegrate as time goes on and the fibres in the materials begin to wither with age. While there is an element of cost associated with the installation and initial building of shutters, make no mistake that if looked after – shutters will be serving you for a longer period of time and in more distinct weather conditions that Australia is known for.
Many shutters have an insulating aspect to their natural build, allowing them to assist in the reduction of heating and cooling costs in the more extreme months of the year. Blockout curtains are of course popular with certain members of the community, but truth be told, there is no substitute for good shutter quality.
In the end, it all comes down to how well you look after your window coverings, regardless of what you choose to purchase. While we stand firmly in the camp of plantation shutters, ensure that you always look after them and go for quality over quantity.
