We can all agree that saving money wherever possible is pretty important, and particularly nowadays. With recent studies showing that
energy bills have skyrocketed by more than 30% over the last few years, it's no wonder that we're all watching the pennies.
In the peak of summer and winter, energy costs can make a big dent in the pocketbook. Luckily, you don't have to suffer the roasting heat or crippling cold, because you can save big bucks by effectively insulating your home. And that's where on the the lesser known benefits of plantation shutters come in - but more on that soon.
Why Your Choice of Window Treatment is Important
Sure, window treatments are a great way to a) jazz up your windows and b) improve home privacy. They stop passersby from peering in, block unwanted light from entering the room, and even help chill out overactive pets who spend a little too much time snooping on the goings on of the outside world.
But choosing the right window treatment is about more than privacy and style. Windows account for over 30% of heat loss in the home. Even with your windows closed, your home is vulnerable to the whims of the weather. This means your HVAC runs more frequently, and your bills rise. Boo to that.
Do Plantation Shutters Insulate?
Yes! In fact, shutters are easily the most energy-efficient window treatment. That's because there's so little open space between the window and the shutter.
Made to your window's exact measurements, our shutters fit snug inside your window recess or surrounding the entire window opening. Curtains, on the other hand, flow freely and loosely cover the window area while blinds have gaps that allow drafts to come through.
The thicker, denser, and more solid your window treatments are, the more insulation they'll provide. Shutters are much thicker than the alternatives, ramping up their insulation credentials even further.
The Benefits of Plantation Shutters
So, which have we covered so far? They're excellent insulators. Check. They're great for privacy. Check. And they're super stylish. Check, check, check.
But there are a few other benefits of shutters to consider too:
- Surprisingly easy to install
- Blends with any décor style
- Stay level despite unlevel window recess
- Waterproof options available
- Durable and built to last
- 3 year warranty on all orders
And don't forget, our light blocking frames also have a lip that extends behind the shutter panels to block any additional light seepage from between the shutter panels and the frame.
Plus, our shutters are designed with the slats overlapping, closing tight in the upwards direction for maximum light blockage and privacy, again limiting any gaps where air and light can bleed through.
We already mentioned how easy they are to install, right? With our how-to guides, you'll have them up in no time.
Which Shutters Insulate Best?
By choosing shutters as your window treatments, you've already made the best choice for your home's energy efficiency. But is there a style or material that works best?
Our
wooden shutters are 100% solid hardwood – not hollow or composite – providing the most solid barrier against the outside elements. Choose our Luxe Wood for the most style options including a range of paint and wood stain options. Our American Wood Shutters are shipped just 2-3 weeks after placing your order.
For shutters in wet spaces, such as kitchens or bathrooms, you may be looking for
waterproof shutters.
Aluminum Core Faux Wood is a solid polyvinyl with aluminum core and is a fully waterproof option that will also provide great insulation.
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Full height shutters will insulate best, since they cover the entire window.
Café style shutters leave the top of the window open, so they aren't ideal for insulation (but they'll look fab).
If you want more flexibility, you can go for full height shutters with a mid-rail, or
tier-on-tier shutters. This will give you more control over the top and bottom sections.
Full solid raised panels will be the best insulators because they don't have moving louvers and will offer the most light-blockage and noise reduction.
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Choosing your shutters should be fun, but if you're stuck, we're here to help. Our shutter experts will be happy to talk you through all things shutters, from measuring to design to placing your order.