Plantation Blinds – In A Class of Their Own

Plantation blinds are similar to plantation shutters but they are not exactly the same. Simply put, plantation blinds resemble the usual metal and fabric horizontal blinds. The main difference is that the slats or louvers used in plantation blinds are bigger in size. On the other hand, plantation shutters resemble exterior wood shutters as they only provide protection on the interior of the window instead of the exterior. In short, plantation blinds and shutters are similar only because both window treatments are adapted from the “plantation style” of wider louvers or panels. In history, plantation shutters received its name from being used in cotton plantation houses in South America centuries ago. It was first brought there by colonizing Spaniards and has since remained in demand when it comes to durable window coverings. True plantation shutters have slats that are 2.5 to 4.5 inches wide fixed into panels that are between 12 to 19.5 inches.

Plantation blinds share the elliptical shapes of the slats from plantation shutters but blinds can extend across a wider width - ideal for use on bigger windows. Essentially the way a plantation blind work is similar to the usual blinds. They do not require rails or tilt bars for operation, but can instead be adjusted by tilting the slats with string systems or manually. Plantation blinds can also be retracted for a clear view outside of the window. In terms of affordability, blinds are always cheaper than shutters. They are generally found in white color and made from basswood. Basswood is a favorite because of its durability and the ability to be stained or painted for personalization. However, there is only so much one can do with plantation blinds. The popularity for it is mainly encouraged only by the need for home makers to stick to the “plantation” style or theme.