If you are choosing between shutters and blinds, there is no universal winner. Each does some things better, and the right answer depends on the window, the room and your budget. Here is how we talk it through with customers.
Look and feel
Shutters are a fixed, framed finish that sits at the window like part of the room. Blinds are softer and come in a far wider choice of fabrics, colours and patterns. If you want a pattern or a strong colour, blinds give you more to choose from.
Light and privacy
Shutter louvres tilt, so you can angle the light and the view. Tier-on-tier and café-style layouts let you close the lower half for privacy and keep the top open. Blinds can be raised fully to clear the window, or, with vertical and day and night styles, adjusted for privacy while still letting light in. Our guide to privacy without blocking all the light covers the options.
Cost
Shutters are made to fit the opening and generally cost more than blinds. That is why many people use shutters at the windows that matter most, such as a front bay, and blinds elsewhere. We can price both for the same window so you can compare.
Space and fitting
Open shutter panels fold back and need some clear wall beside the window. Blinds raise into the head of the window. Handles, cills and shallow recesses can affect either, which is why we measure at your home. See measuring awkward windows.
Which rooms suit which
- Bays and large living-room windows: shutters are often considered, see bay window shutters, though blinds for bay windows work too.
- Bedrooms: blackout blinds are usually easier for darkening a room. See choosing blinds for a darker bedroom.
- Kitchens and bathrooms: choose materials for steam and splashes, whichever you pick.
See both before you decide
We cover Middlesbrough, Stockton and wider Teesside. Read about shutters in Middlesbrough or shutters in Stockton-on-Tees, then book a free measure and we will talk through both.
