Shutters and curtains can radically slash your energy bills. Studies have proven this to be true. By simply closing these window coverings at night, you can trap in heat and reduce the need for heaters. Keeping them open during the day can also bring in heat and light, minimising the need for air conditioners and artificial lights.
This is especially useful in Australia, where a variety of climates can be experienced—from the temperate climate of Wollongong in the Illawarra Region of NSW, to the tropical climate of Cairns in Queensland.
But between the two window coverings, which one is best for your house?
To answer this question, you need to know both the advantages and disadvantages of each window covering option.

Curtains
Disadvantages

• Easily fade – Curtains, even the heavy-duty ones, are highly prone to fading and tear. This is an unfortunate fact that you need to face, as they’re made of fabric.
• Costly to maintain – They need regular cleaning. An uncleaned curtain will become dirty over time, which can result to sanitary problems.

Advantages

• Formal – They look very formal and add elegance to any room.
• Lower installation cost – Curtain installations cost lesser compared to shutter installations.
• Inexpensive to change – You can conveniently change the drapes and match them with the season or occasion.

Shutters
Disadvantages

• Less formal – They may look less formal compared to curtains.
• High installation cost – On average, they’ll cost more than a regular curtain set up.

Advantages

• Good insulation – Shutters are great insulators. They are even better than blinds. This is because they can fully fit into window frames, no matter the shape or size.
• Long lasting –Shutters are durable and can be permanently fixed on your windows. They also last long and have a lifespan of up to 20 years.
• Low maintenance – They are very easy to maintain, with upkeep only involving wiping away of dust. They also have a finish that is resistant to stains, scratches and dents.
• Cost-effective – The cost you will shoulder from installing plantation shutters is a small price to pay for its high lifetime value due to its durability and low maintenance requirements.
• Stylish – They can add style to your house. They may seem like simple additions to a home, but they can dramatically improve the look of a room. Shutters now come in different colours and finishes to better suit your home’s design.

Shutters were first used in the 1500s to keep out the cold as well as light from the outside. It was only in the late 16th century that curtains appeared. Even with the emergence of drapes and luxurious curtains, shutters still remained the best option when it came to window coverings. Compared to curtains, shutters simply provided more advantages to every home. Elizabethan houses back then found them to be very helpful, and until now they’re still the window covering of choice for most homes.