In 2017 to 2018, residential electricity bills in Australia averaged $1,522 with tax. Victoria is averaging at $1,602.32 this 2019.

Regardless of where you live though, electricity rates continue to rise, so much so it's now "the new normal." That doesn't mean you should just endure it. Something as simple as installing window plantation shutters can bring your bills down.

But what are plantation shutters exactly? How can they help cut energy consumption at home? All these and more we'll answer in this post, so be sure to keep reading!

What Are Plantation Shutters?

Also often called plantation blinds, plantation shutters are popular window treatments. They got their name from the grand houses built on South America's cotton plantations.

The main distinguishing characteristic of plantation shutters is their wide louvres. A louvre is a form of construction involving a horizontal arrangement of materials.

In plantation shutters, these materials are often blades or slats of wood, glass, or metal. Each blade or slat varies in width depending on the blade size you choose.

Before, people installed plantation shutter blinds outside their windows (external shutters). But today, you can install these as inside window shutters (internal shutters). They can also either be movable (adjustable) or fixed window treatments.

The Primary Use of Plantation Shutters

The louvred construction of plantation shutters helps with light control and ventilation. Their openings allow some sunlight to get in while letting air move in and out of the building. This also aids in keeping indoor moisture at optimal levels.

Movable plantation shutters provide even greater light control and ventilation. You can adjust the openings of the panel depending on how much light or air you want to let into your home. You can even pair them up with stylish and energy-efficient curtains!

Increasing Comfort while Reducing Energy Consumption

Did you know that you can lose up to 40% of your heating energy through your windows? That up to 87% of heat inside your home comes from outside, through your windows?

Now, consider that heating and cooling make up 20% to 50% of energy bills in Australian homes. That's a lot of energy lost and wasted.

Plantation shutters can help keep that heat inside or outside, as needed. How much depends on the thickness of the shutters themselves. But rest assure that quality plantation blinds help lessen these heat loss and gains.

In summer, these window treatments act as a barrier so that heat outside won't get into your home. Their openings still let some amount of air move in and out for proper ventilation.

During the winter season, plantation shutters help keep cold air out. Adjust their panels so you can take advantage of the sun's light and heat.

Increased Privacy without Compromising Beauty

Internal and external plantation shutters cover most of a window's surface area. That makes them a great choice for boosting window privacy.

At the same time, their large louvres give them an elegant, sophisticated look. That's why they're great for living rooms, dining rooms, and even bedrooms. This also makes them a perfect choice on windows that the front of your house as the louvres look beautiful to transform a home’s facade.

Plus, they're available in various stains and finishes, from white to darker neutrals. This makes it easy to work in traditional or modern home designs.

Upgrade Your Windows with Plantation Shutters Now

Now that you know what are plantation shutters, consider investing in them ASAP. Especially with the rising costs of electricity and the harsher weathers, we're experiencing. With these window covers, you can beautify your home and make it even more comfortable.

Ready to transform your windows? Then please feel free to request a free measure and quote from us! We can help you get started with your window and home improvement project.

Are you blinded by the light?

Well, you may need to buy some blinds. No one ever said buying blinds was the most exciting purchase you'll make, but having high-quality curtains and blinds is a real game changer.

Deciding between Venetian blinds and roller blinds can be difficult, trust us. There are many factors to take into consideration; cost, cleaning, privacy, everything matters. Both have their perks and their deficiencies.

Let us give you some information that might help make this decision a little easier. Here's our rundown of Venetians blind and roller blinds.

Let's Talk Light

Let's get right to the nitty-gritty. How much or little light do you want coming through the blind?

If you want to control the amount of light coming in through your windows throughout the day, Venetian blinds will allow you to do so. You can adjust the amount of light by opening and closing the slats. Rays of light may still slip through the cracks, however.

If you are an all-or-nothing kind of person, then you'd choose roller blinds. With these, you can shut the light out completely during the day and night, if you choose. Or, you can leave them wide open and let the whole world into your room.

It's worth noting that you should consider your privacy when having the "light" conversation. Both blind options will offer complete privacy, but with Venetians, you can be semi-private and still get some light into your room.

Let's Talk Decor

Which of the blind options is better for decor? Both can be lovely. It depends on what you're going for in the room.

Venetian blinds bring a certain amount of decadence to your room. They're a more classic style of blind and there are some gorgeous models that will enhance any room.

Roller blinds, on the other hand, come in many different patterns. They can even become the focal point of your room, depending on the pattern you've chosen. You can make a much stronger statement with roller blinds.

Practicality

Aside from the amount of light that you want to let into your room, Venetian and roller blinds each have a unique "user experience".

Venetian blinds are a bit bulkier than roller blinds, so you need to consider space. While you can order both for any window size, roller blinds tend to be tighter fitting, taking up less space, than Venetians as well.

Roller blinds are the perfect option if you don’t want your window views obstructed. You can roll them up and have a no obstruction to your outside views which makes them very practical.

Both types can be easily cleaned. With Venetians, you'll have to dust every slat, which can be more time-consuming. Rollers consist of fabric so they will have a different cleaning process altogether.

If you give your blinds the proper care, both Venetian and roller blinds will last a long time.

Venetian Blinds or Roller Blinds?

As we've laid out in this article, there is no right answer to this question. Both are a great choice. In fact, why choose?

Get a set of Venetian blinds for your kitchen and a set of roller blinds for your living room. Having the best of both worlds is possible in this scenario.

Whatever you decide to do, you should feel lucky to be getting some great new blinds.

To shop for your new blinds, check out our products page.

Are you looking to take your space from drab to fab? Curtains are an easy and affordable way to give your room a new look. But with so many forms and fabrics, it can be hard to know how to choose the best fabric for your curtains. 

How to Choose the Best Fabric for Curtains

Need some advice on choosing the best fabric for your curtains? Here are some tips and things to consider as you shop for new curtains.

Know the Different Fabric Types

When it comes to curtains, there are many kinds of fabrics to choose from. The fabric you pick will affect how your curtains hang and drape, as well as how durable and easy to clean they are. That’s why it’s important to evaluate the different fabric types before you start looking at designs.

Polyester is a common fabric for curtains. They’re popular because they’re affordable, easy to clean, and durable. If you’re looking for an easy, low-maintenance option, they may be your best bet.

Linen curtains are great if you want a sheer fabric option for your space. They’re billowy but provide a tailored look, so they make any space seem more elegant. 

Sheer, voile or lace curtains offer a light and airy feel to any space. Like linen, they’re super sheer and provide some privacy without blocking out any light. Other popular curtain fabric options include cotton, silk, and velvet.

Consider Your Needs

Are you interested in curtains for functional reasons, aesthetic reasons, or both? Your answer to this question can help you narrow your fabric options down to the ones that would work best for you.

If you’re looking for aesthetic options, sheer curtains are great. If you want curtains to actually block out the sun and provide privacy, you may want to go with a polyester blend.

Do you live in a chillier climate? If so, you may want thermal curtains. These thick curtains can help better insulate your home and reduce drafts.

If you’re someone who needs to sleep during the day, you may want blackout curtains. These curtains, made out of an opaque fabric backed by foam, are effective at stopping any light from entering your room. They can also increase the privacy of your space.

Think About Your Space

When it comes to curtains, some fabric options are better suited for certain rooms than others. For example, polyester curtains are great for bedrooms to control light and sheer curtains add a lovely ambience of diffused light in living spaces.

The tailored look of linen makes it a perfect addition to a casual dining space or chic living room. Silk or velvet curtains are well suited for more traditional spaces like formal dining rooms.

Before you buy, think about where you want to put your curtains, and whether the fabric you choose will enhance the space.

Final Thoughts on the Best Fabric for Curtains

When it comes to curtains, the options are endless, but some fabric styles are better suited for certain spaces than others. By studying up on the best fabric for curtains, you can find a stylish option that enhances your space!

Ready to start your curtain search? Check out our quality selection of curtains and more!