Window Shutters
Consumer Window Shutter Information
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Window Treatment Options and Prices
Honeycomb Shades
Honeycomb shades are a good choice to fit windows of unusual shape because they are made of spun polyester and are extremely flexible. A triple-cell honeycomb shade will increase the energy efficiency of a single pane of glass by five times and more than double the energy efficiency of a double-glazed window.
Price: A 36 by 42-in. double-cell shade runs around $100.
Horizontal Blinds: Wood & Faux Wood
This option offers great light control because of the adjustable louvers. There are different louver sizes to choose from. A helpful tip is to select the louver size not only in relation to the dimensions of the window but also in relation to the view.
Price: Wood blinds with 2” slats, measuring 36” wide by 42” tall, start at around $125; metal and vinyl models cost less.
Window Shading
Window shadings are a mix of honeycomb and horizontal blinds that feature opaque louvers sandwiched between sheer fabric panels. This lets light in while keeping glare to a minimum. Shadings are particularly useful for windows that face south or east.
Price: Prices start at $250 for a 36 by 42” model.
Roller Shades
Roller shades are a no-frills window covering. Shades keep room cool in the summer and warm in the winter.
Price: They are budget-friendly, beginning at about $50 for a high-quality fabric model that measures 36” by 42”
Vertical Blinds
Most commonly used over sliding glass doors, vertical blinds are also a good option for tall casement windows, fixed-glass windows or bow windows, as well as with arch-top and angular windows.
Price: A simple, free-hanging vinyl blind measuring 60 to 68” costs about $100.
Shutters
Shutters add style to a room as well as functionality. They are a great choice for light and privacy control. They also provide the added benefits of insulation and noise reduction. Shutters add a lot of character to a room. The width of the slats has a lot to do with that. Vanes can measure up to 5 ½” (these are called "plantation shutters") and down to 3/4” (traditional shutters). A conventional choice is stained or painted solid-wood versions. A more contemporary look, especially when they're hung in an angled- or arch-top window, are smooth white louvers, often made of vinyl. Most shutters have flat slats with ends cut at 90°. For something a little more unique, look for slats with rounded ends and beaded and S-shaped blades. With adjustable louvers, control rods can be centered, offset or hidden from view.
Price: Shutters are priced in several ways: by the square inch or square foot, or by the panel. You'll pay $20 and up per square foot for a painted-wood shutter with 11/2-inch louvers.