Curtains are most certainly more commonly used compared to shutters. If you think back to twenty years ago or even longer, here in South Africa, curtains were used as the main means of covering a window. Blinds came into existence as a modern alternative and are now widely popular. And how about shutters? Shutters have a long history in themselves in different parts of the world although they have only recently been introduced into the South African market. American Shutters is one such brand that through exposure to overseas styles saw a gap within the South African interior design industry. However, what if you are undecided between choosing a shutter over a curtain? They each provide a completely different look. To help you decide, the practicalities and benefits of each are outlined below.
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All About Shutters
Shutters have a very distinct look so if you are unsure, the first thing to do is to go window-shopping and picture for yourself how they might look in your home. If you find you are intrigued there are many benefits that come with choosing shutters as your window feature. Shutters are firstly very solid and as such have a long life span. Shutters work on the same principle as blinds with louvers that can be adjusted. Unlike blinds though, shutters are built on a solid wooden frame, which is then attached to the window frame. Opening and closing is done by either swinging it inwards or outwards or folding it together to one side depending on the style you have gone for. This solidity is a great advantage and the fact that they are very maintenance free.
Keeping shutters clean requires minimal work and due to the type of top coating used, can be easily wiped clean. The louvers on shutters are also considerably wider compared to blinds so that there is a better view when looking through. Shutters are great in terms of light control. You can have as much or as little light as you won’t without compromising too much on privacy. Shutters are also great insulators from noise and temperature. In addition to this, shutters come in a wide variety of different styles and can also be custom made to suit your specific needs.
All About Curtains
Curtains on the other hand provide a completely different look. Shutters can have a tendency to look cold, especially if the décor is in a very modern and minimalist style. Curtains on the other hand automatically give a much warmer feel to a room. Hanging up curtains can instantly transform a room to feeling cozy and comfortable. Curtains a more conventional style and if this is what speaks to you there is infinite choice available using different materials, patterns and styles. Curtains can also look quite modern, depending on the fabric, colour and hanging features. Curtains can be vulnerable to a certain amount of wear and tear however and can result in having a shorter life span compared to shutters. Depending on the type of curtains you have, if you choose to re-decorate chances are that they won’t go with the new design. Shutters can be much more adaptable in this way – especially if the shutters are kept neutral in colour. Curtains absorb dust and dirt quite easily, which can be frustrating to get clean making curtains higher maintenance than shutters.
Curtains are certainly significantly cheaper than shutters, and if you have a limited budget then this might be the deciding factor for you. However, if you are keen to find out more about the different styles of shutters available on the market, American Shutters is a good place to start. With such a range of choice, expert advice and customization services, if you find shutters to be your preferred choice, you will find exactly what you are looking for.
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