Plantation shutters are a timeless and stylish choice for many homeowners, offering strong light control, durability, and curb appeal. But as with any window treatment, there are trade-offs. If you’re wondering, “Are shutters a bad idea?” or want to weigh the pros and cons, it’s worth exploring the disadvantages of plantation shutters before committing.
Let’s take a closer look at some common shutter problems and what you should know if you’re considering them for your home.
1. Cost: Premium Look, Premium Price
One of the biggest disadvantages of plantation shutters is the cost. Compared to traditional blinds or shades, window shutters are a more significant upfront investment.
SelectBlinds premium–quality shutters start at around $230 per 24″ x 36″ window and can go up depending on the product. That’s significantly more than window shades or roller blinds, which can cost just a fraction.
While they are long-lasting and custom-fitted, this may be more than some budgets can bear, especially if you’re outfitting an entire home or multiple large windows.
2. Limited Flexibility in Design
Unlike curtains or even some window shades, shutters are not as versatile when it comes to changing up your room’s look. Their rigid frame and louver style mean you’re committed to a certain aesthetic, which may not be ideal for those who love to update their décor often.
This is particularly important in bedrooms, where softer, more flexible window treatments like blackout curtains or roman shades might feel more inviting.
3. Space Considerations
Plantation shutters are mounted directly inside or around the window frame, which can take up valuable space. In smaller rooms or windows with limited depth, shutters might make a space feel tighter.
Plus, the louvers require clearance when opened. If you have furniture close to the window or a tight layout, this could become a functional issue.
4. Installation Requirements
Properly installing window shutters requires precision. If the fit is off, shutters won’t operate correctly, and gaps can let in light, defeating the purpose of this type of treatment. Labor costs to install shutters range from $65-100 an hour, according to Bob Villa.
Thankfully all SelectBlinds shutters are easy to install by yourself. However, while SelectBlinds offers helpful guides and tools, it’s still more involved than snapping in a set of cordless shades or blinds.
5. Not Ideal for All Climates
Shutters, especially real wood ones, can warp or crack in high-humidity areas like bathrooms, kitchens, or sunrooms. While faux wood shutters are more resistant to moisture, they still may not perform as well as vinyl treatments in extreme environments.
6. Cleaning and Maintenance
Although shutters don’t require regular laundering like fabric treatments, they do need frequent dusting and occasional deep cleaning. Louvers can collect dust quickly, especially in dry or high-traffic environments.
If you have allergies or simply don’t want another chore on your cleaning list, this could be a point of concern.
7. Light Control Is Not Total
While shutters offer excellent light adjustment via their adjustable louvers, they don’t offer complete blackout the way roller shades or blackout blinds do. Light can leak in around the edges or through the gaps between louvers.
For those who value total darkness, especially in bedrooms or media rooms, shutters might fall short.
Do Shutters Increase Home Value?
This is a common question, and the answer is yes, in most cases. Plantation shutters are considered a permanent fixture, and real estate experts often view them as a value-adding feature. According to Bob Villa, they have a return on investment of about 75 percent.
So while the initial expense might be high, it can be recouped in property value and energy efficiency over time.
Drawbacks of Using Shutters in Bedrooms
For bedrooms, plantation shutters have some specific drawbacks:
- They don’t offer full blackout capabilities, which may interfere with sleep.
- The solid structure can feel less cozy or soft than fabric treatments.
- Opening and closing louvers every day can be more cumbersome than simply raising a shade.
In these cases, many customers choose to layer shutters with curtains or opt for a hybrid solution that includes blackout shades underneath.
When Shutters Are a Smart Choice—and When They’re Not
| Best For | Consider Alternatives When |
|---|---|
| Upscale homes with classic architecture | You want a soft, cozy bedroom vibe |
| Rooms with standard rectangular windows | Budget is tight (consider faux wood blinds or vinyl) |
| Seeking investment that boosts resale appeal | You need total blackout or flexible décor |
| Want low maintenance over many years | You frequently change style or want drapery options |
| Prefer a permanent window treatment that increases value | Room has high humidity or requires lightweight shades |
Final Thoughts: Are Shutters a Bad Idea?
Absolutely not, but they’re not a one-size-fits-all solution either. While plantation shutters offer timeless style, energy efficiency, and lasting quality, they may not be the best option for every room or budget.
If you love the look and are prepared for the higher investment, window shutters can be a fantastic choice. But if you’re seeking versatility, soft textures, or total blackout in a bedroom, consider pairing them with other window coverings or choosing more adaptable blinds and shades.
Whatever your needs, SelectBlinds has you covered with beautiful, functional, and easy-to-install options for every room.
