They’re not to everyone’s taste. They roll up into a large box above the window — either inside or outside. And they are more expensive than blinds. Maybe Europeans like them for the noise and privacy factor and that may not be as much of a concern here in the states.

What do they call blinds in America?

The American word is window shade.

Why do American houses have shutters?





Shutters may be employed for a variety of reasons, including controlling the amount of sunlight that enters a room, to provide privacy, security, to protect against weather or unwanted intrusion or damage and to enhance the aesthetics of a building.

Why do European houses have shutters?

Shutters serve several purposes. First is for insulation. They help keep the heat indoors in the winter and the cool air inside in the summer. Few houses in Europe have air conditioning, so it’s important to keep the hot sun out and allow the thick stone walls to cool the home.

Why do homes in Italy have shutters?

Those greenish shutters, called persiane, are, like Italians, unique. The American traveler to Italy certainly notices shutters. They grace most windows, offering security, direct sun blockage, and a way to use up all that green paint that Italians would otherwise have absolutely no use for.

Why do people prefer blinds over curtains?

Curtains offer better insulation and soundproofing.





In warm weather, however, blinds beat curtains in energy efficiency. Because blinds leak more heat from a room, they also decrease indoor heat gain more efficiently in the summer, by around 45 percent, which can lower your AC bills.

What are zebra blinds?

Zebra blinds are cord or remote control operated shades that lets you adjust the light filtering, insulation, and privacy of your room. Zebra shades are an innovative and modern window treatment that can add uniqueness to any room. The stripes create a sophisticated look while still maintaining the feel of comfort.

Do Americans have shutters?

We do have these shutters in the US. They are a bit different than those in Europe (I saw them too when I was visiting Germany). Roll shutters are very common in the coastal areas of Florida and referred to as ‘Hurricane Shutters’ although some people buy them for light control.

Do people put shutters on houses anymore?

Today, shutters are used extensively all over the world, for functional and aesthetic purposes. Do all houses need shutters? Absolutely not, and many, many houses would look much better without shutters, rather than with “today’s” shutters.

Why did old houses have shutters?



They were used for security, provided privacy from outsiders passing by, added an extra layer of insulation during winter weather (with wood having a high R value) and blocked out the sun, preventing damage to furniture. Louvered shutters allowed a breeze to enter a home, keeping the room cool on a hot summer day.