Do Shutters Keep Heat In?

1:00PM 12 September 2025

When the cold months roll around, most of us start thinking about how to keep our homes warmer without the heating bills going through the roof. A question we get asked a lot is: Do shutters actually help keep the heat in? The short answer is – yes, they do. Internal shutters - or plantation shutters - add an extra layer over your windows that makes a big difference when it comes to warmth. So, let’s break it down.

How shutters work as insulators
Which shutters are best for heat retention?
Tips to maximise heat retention using window shutters
Are plantation shutters energy efficient?

How shutters work as insulators

Windows are one of the biggest sources of heat loss in the home, with cold air sneaking in and warm air escaping. According to the British Blind & Shutter Association (BBSA), the right window coverings can cut heat loss through windows by as much as 33%. Research from the University of Salford’s Energy House Laboratory has also shown that internal plantation shutters can reduce heat loss through windows by up to 28%.

Plantation shutters act as an extra barrier between your room and the outside. When closed, they trap a layer of air between the panels and the glass. This layer acts like a buffer, slowing down the transfer of cold into your home and keeping warm air inside. The result? Fewer draughts, warmer rooms, and cosier evenings during the colder months.

The insulating effect is enhanced by choosing made-to-measure shutters that fit snugly within the window frame, leaving no gaps for air to escape.

We’ve covered this in more detail in our article on insulating shutters.

Which shutters are best for heat retention?

Not all shutter designs are made equal when it comes to insulation. But some do the job better than others.

Café style shutters – These only cover the lower half of your window, so they’re not really designed with insulation in mind. Their main strengths are privacy and natural light. If heat retention is your top priority, they’re better paired with curtains or blinds.

Tier-on-tier shutters – Also very good, but because the top and bottom are separate panels there might be small gaps where air sneaks through.

Best shutter style for heat retention

Solid shutters – Fantastic at blocking out cold because they are made from panels of solid wood. They also darken the room really well, so they’re ideal for bedrooms. You can find more detail here on the energy efficiency of solid shutters.

Full height shutters – These shutters cover the whole window, but unlike solid panel shutters they have louvres for more flexibility. This makes them the most effective style overall, and one of the reasons they’re a customer favourite.

Best shutter material

Wooden shutters –Wood is naturally insulating, so hardwood shutters are the best choice if warmth is your priority.

Faux wood shutters – Not quite as effective as timber, but they’re still excellent insulators and will block draughts thanks to the snug fit in the frame. Plus, they work brilliantly in kitchens and bathrooms as they’re 100% waterproof.

Shop Insulating Shutters

Tips to maximise heat retention using window shutters

Close shutters before it gets dark – Leave your slats open during the day to let in natural sunlight, which naturally warms your room. Then close them in the evening before temperatures drop. For even better results, make sure the panels are snug in the frame with no gaps around the edges, as this helps trap the warm air inside.

Layer shutters with curtains or blinds – Shutters alone help insulate, but pairing them with thick curtains or blackout blinds in bedrooms or living rooms can significantly boost warmth. This is particularly effective if your curtains reach the floor and are wide enough to cover the window frame completely, preventing heat from escaping around the sides.

Seal gaps and check fittings – Over time, shutters can develop tiny gaps around the frame or hinges, which reduce their insulating power. Make sure all panels fit tightly, and consider adding draft-proofing strips if needed.

Pair with double glazing – Plantation shutters improve insulation for single-glazed windows, but their effect is amplified when combined with double glazing. For older homes, this combination can dramatically reduce heat loss, especially during winter nights.

Adjust slats strategically – During the day, angle slats upward to catch sunlight while keeping heat in. At night, close them fully. This small adjustment can make a noticeable difference in room temperature over time.

Use shutters on all windows in a room – Even if one window gets the most sun, installing shutters on all windows helps create an evenly insulated space, reducing draughts from any uncovered panes.

Are plantation shutters energy efficient?

Yes. Plantation shutters are energy efficient because they reduce heat loss and help you rely less on the heating. They won’t replace insulation in your walls or roof, but they do work as an extra shield against the elements. Over time, that means lower bills and a warmer home, which is especially useful in the winter.

According to the BBSA, incorporating blinds and shutters is a cost-effective way to improve home energy efficiency and can be used alongside other measures for maximum benefit.

Final thoughts

So, do shutters keep heat in? Yes they do. By sealing off draughts and keeping warm air inside, shutters will make your home feel a lot more comfortable. Whether you go for full height, tier-on-tier, or solid panel designs, you’ll be adding both style and practicality to your interior.

Need some help finding the best plantation shutters for your space? Contact us today to speak to one of our expert advisers.

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