Do Shutters Last Longer Than Blinds and Curtains?
12:00PM 16 February 2023
When choosing window dressings, there are lots to factor consider. “Do they block out light well?” “Are they cost-effective?” “How do they look?” These are all important questions to ask yourself before making your final decision, but what about longevity? The last thing you need is to replace your window treatments every couple of years. DIY shutters have become one of the most popular choices for homeowners, but how long do shutters last when compared to curtains and blinds? Another great question. In this quick guide, we’ll explore their general lifespan and how, with minimal upkeep, they can last for years to come.
How Long Do Curtains and Blinds Last?
In the name of fairness, we should say that the sheer variety of materials that curtains and blinds are made of means we’re forced to generalise. You should bear in mind that dressings made of natural fibers like cotton or linen often don’t last as long as those made from synthetic materials such as polyester or nylon. Additionally, it will depend on their exposure to sunlight, heat, and moisture. And it’s also worth noting that you could add a few years onto your blinds or curtains with a little extra maintenance and general TLC. However, cleaning curtains and blinds can be a little bit of a hassle, and usually involves removing them from the window. And, frankly, who has the time?
Ok, we know you came here for a figure, so that’s enough beating around the bush. With regular use, you can expect a set of curtains to last 3-5 years with regular use, but they can last up to 7-10 years with the right love and affection. With blinds, there is a little more variance. The cheapest readymade roller blinds can be rather flimsy, and you’d be lucky to get more than 3 years out of them. A more durable set of blinds should be replaced somewhere within the region of 6-8 years.

How Long Do Shutters Last?
We know what you’re thinking. We sell shutters, so obviously we would say they’re much longer lasting than curtains and blinds. But the thing is, it’s true. One of plantation shutters’ top selling points is their longevity, making them a great money-saver. Because they’re made from sturdy materials like hardwood and polyvinyl, they’re able to deal with much more wear and tear than other window dressings. In fact, shutters can last anywhere from 20-25 years, or even longer with just a little bit of maintenance. And don’t forget, each and every order at The Shutter Store comes with a 5-year, no quibble guarantee. How’s that for peace of mind?
Shutters: The Hassle-Free Choice
Something we love about DIY shutters is how easy they are to keep clean. Unlike with curtains and blinds, cleaning your shutters doesn’t have to be a big event. They’re super simple to dust, and for an extra spruce, simply wipe them down with a damp cloth followed by a dry cloth to remove any dirt build up. For the hinges and little nooks and crannies, we recommend using a toothbrush (not your own, of course) on occasion to keep these areas free of debris. And that’s it! Follow those simple steps and you’ll be enjoying your shutters for years, decades even.
If you’ve enjoyed this quick and easy guide but still have a question or two, we’d love to hear from you. Send an email to hello@theshutterstore.co.uk today and one of our expert crew will get back to you shortly.