Modern Blinds vs Shutters: Which One Suits Your Space Best?

What is the Difference Between Blinds and Shutters?

One of the most noticeable differences between blinds and shutters is their functionality. Shutters are fixed to the sides of the window and are solid in structure. They provide more of a permanent solution and can be utilised as both an internal and external window treatment. Blinds on the other hand are flexible, fixing only to the top of the window. They usually consist of slats crafted from wood, metal, PVC or fabric. As a result of this, you will find that shutters are the more expensive option of the two but do provide a good return on investment with their durability.

Benefits of Blinds

Blinds are a popular choice of window covering among homeowners and for good reason. Benefit from:

Comprehensive selection

Fabric blinds in particular are available in almost any colour, texture and pattern which makes finding the right blind for your aesthetic easy. From neutral, minimalist blinds, to bold, maximalist patterns, they have you covered. And if you cannot find the right blind for your needs, simply opt for custom made designs to enjoy full control.

Low maintenance

Blinds are lightweight, quick to clean and versatile which makes them very easy to maintain. You can wipe dust and dirt away from the slats or fabric with a cloth, and if the colour starts to appear a little faded, they can be swapped or changed over time with very little complication. And even if you are not well practiced in DIY, you would have no trouble with doing the installation yourself.

Affordability

If your budget is limited, blinds are an excellent choice of window covering. They come in a variety of shapes, sizes and fabrics which makes adhering to your budget easy. Quick to install, you won’t have to worry about any additional installation costs as you will likely be able to do this yourself.

Benefits of Shutters

Shutters too are a popular window treatment among homeowners. Here’s how you could benefit:

Durability

As shutters are more of a permanent solution, they are designed to be durable and long lasting. They are easy to maintain and can be cleaned simply by wiping them down with a damp cloth. And they are commonly made from either wood or vinyl so you won’t have to worry about them retaining harsh or unpleasant odours.

Temperature control

Shutters outperform blinds when it comes to insulation and temperature control. If you want to make the most of the heat that comes from the sun, you can simply tilt the slats open. Alternatively, if you want to retain the heat that is already in your room, you can tile them fully closed. They can be used to control light and privacy in a similar manner.

Value

Due to their aesthetics and durability, you will find that installing shutters adds value to your home. They are a feature and give your home an extra edge, regardless of the colour or style you opt for. Adding kerb appeal, they are an attractive window treatment in both traditional and contemporary design schemes.

How to Make the Right Decision

When choosing whether to go for blinds or shades, you should consider what properties are most important to you. Considering the following factors will help you to decide on the best solution for your needs.

• Is it important that you are able to control the amount of natural light in the room?
• Is insulation and temperature control a priority to you?
• Is durability and longevity a must have?
• Do you aim to install your window treatment yourself?
• Do you have a budget that you need to adhere to?

If you have answered these questions and are still unsure of the right window treatment to choose, consulting the advice of an expert will help. We recommend heading to a blind and shutter specialist and they will be able to provide personal advice and a tailored solution.

Find Your New Blinds and Shutters at UniBlinds

Are you ready to start browsing blinds and shutters? Get in touch with the team at UniBlinds. With a comprehensive selection of internal and external blinds, you are sure to find something that suits both your needs and your budget. No matter whether you are looking for traditional or contemporary window coverings, we have you covered. We look forward to hearing from you soon.