• By Nicole
  • |
  • Dec. 22. 2017

shutter myths
Shutters are an incredible addition to any home. However, most people are put off from investing in them because of some common myths which surround the product. We will debunk some of the most commonly heard myths in this post. We will also identify some of the benefits that installing shutters may bring to your home.

Myth: Shutters Dim the Lighting in Your Home

Fact: This is perhaps the most common misconception among homeowners. They think, even when it’s open, shutters will leave the room slightly darker. This myth likely originates from some homeowners being inexperienced with shutters. However, what many fail to realise that sunlight falls through the windows, in your home, at an angle. With shutters, you have the ability to alter that angle by simply adjusting the louvres. This means that you have better control over the amount of light that enters your home. Also, remember that shutters can swing open all the way and allow as much light as you want.

Myth: Plastic Insulates Better Against Heat

Fact: Actually, wood is 33% cooler than ABS and 25% cooler than PVC. It has a much lower heat transfer coefficient. This is enough to make a difference during the hot summer months.

Myth: Wooden Shutters are Expensive

Fact: The fact is, shutters don’t come as cheap as rack blinds available in departmental stores at discounted rates. This myth completely depends on how you think of shutters. If you think of them as simple decorative items which aren’t expected to survive beyond a few years, then they will be an expensive option for you. However, what most fail to realise is that they’re actually a lasting addition to your home. They also come with multiple benefits such as being energy efficient as they can lower your air conditioning bill and can add to your houses’ value. Unlike blinds, which need to be replaced often, shutters can last decades if not a lifetime.

Myth: Shutters Make Your House Look Ugly

Fact: As soon as people hear the word ‘shutters’, they immediately think of big and bulky contraptions. They’re wrong as many don’t realise the sheer volume of the varieties of sizes and colours that they’re available in. Shutters nowadays, are customizable and can easily be tailored to compliment your interiors.

Myth: Shutters are Extremely Easy to Install

Fact: Many home design projects can be done easily within an afternoon. However, installing shutters can be difficult from the start. It’s a time-consuming task as the dimensions and measurements need to be correct to ensure smooth operation and a tight fit. Hoisting and installing large panels may be more difficult than you can imagine. Unless every step is done in the correct manner, you may end up with draftiness from a weather-stripping which doesn’t fit well or even misshapen shutters.

Myth: Man-made Shutters are Stronger than Wooden Plantation Shutters

Fact: Wood’s fibrous nature is like millions of layers of individual fibres which are interconnected. They also pull on each other to sustain their original direction and shape. This makes wood particularly durable and a strong product.

Installing shutters can provide many benefits to you and your home. If you have any more questions, get in touch with a professional who will be able to provide guidance.