When choosing window coverings, it can be tricky deciding between blinds and shutters. Both offer style, privacy, and functionality, but each has its strengths. If you’re in Loughborough or Leicester and weighing up your options, this guide by Shutter Envy will walk you through everything you need to know.
Why It Matters
Windows are a focal point in any room. The way you dress them not only affects how your home looks, but also how it feels—light control, insulation, privacy, and even resale value can all be influenced by your choice.
At Shutter Envy, we’ve spent over 15 years transforming homes across Loughborough, Leicester and surrounding areas with beautifully made-to-measure shutters and blinds. Here’s our breakdown to help you make the best choice for your space.
What Are Window Blinds?
Blinds are a flexible and often budget-friendly solution for light control and privacy. Available in styles like roller blinds, vertical blinds, Venetian, honeycomb and duo rollers, they come in many fabrics, colours and finishes. We even offer full blind motorisation, including remote and voice control.
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Cost-effective
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Wide range of styles
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Suitable for all window shapes
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Easier to replace
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Can be motorised for convenience
What Are Window Shutters?
Shutters are a more permanent solution, adding architectural interest and increasing home value. Made of hardwood, MDF, or waterproof ABS, they are custom fitted to your windows and provide excellent thermal and acoustic insulation. Options include full-height, café-style, tier-on-tier, and shaped shutters—ideal for bay windows or unique spaces.
Advantages of Shutters:
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Long-lasting and durable
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Timeless appearance
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Excellent insulation
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Easy to clean
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Enhances kerb appeal
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Customisable in size, colour and material
Shutters vs Blinds: A Side-by-Side Comparison
| Feature | Shutters | Blinds |
|---|---|---|
| Cost | Higher | Lower |
| Durability | Long | Medium |
| Maintenance | Easy | Variable |
| Style | Classic | Modern |
| Light Control | Excellent | Good |
| Privacy | High | Good |
| Insulation | Superior | Moderate |
| Custom Fit | Bespoke | Made-to-measure |
| Motorisation | Optional | Common |
| Installation | Involved | Quick |
Things to Consider Before You Choose
Your Budget
Blinds are generally more affordable, which may be better if you have multiple rooms to cover at once. Shutters cost more but can last decades with minimal upkeep.
Aesthetic Preference
Shutters offer a timeless, elegant finish that boosts kerb appeal. Blinds offer a more modern, minimalist touch and come in more fabrics and finishes.
Room Usage
Bedrooms: Blackout honeycomb blinds or full-height shutters are best for light control.
Bathrooms/Kitchens: Waterproof shutters (Java ABS) or moisture-resistant blinds are ideal.
Living Areas: Café-style or tier-on-tier shutters let in light while maintaining privacy. Venetian or duo rollers are also great here.
Automation
At Shutter Envy, we offer full blind and shutter motorisation. Whether you want remote controls, app integration or voice-activated features via Alexa or Google, we’ve got you covered.
Why Choose Shutter Envy?
We’re not just another shutter company. Based in Loughborough, we’re proud to be a family-run business with local roots and a customer-first approach. We offer:
Free home consultations across Leicester, Loughborough, Quorn, Rothley, Barrow Upon Soar and beyond.
Expert advice tailored to your needs.
Bespoke, high-quality products made to measure.
Fully trained fitters and surveyors.
Award-winning service—IE100 ‘Shutter and Blind Specialist 2023’.
Whether it’s luxury shutters for a bay window, blackout blinds for the bedroom, or a smart home automation upgrade—we do it all.
Final Thoughts: Shutters or Blinds?
If you’re after a timeless, low-maintenance and high-value addition to your home, shutters are an investment worth making. But if flexibility, affordability, and modern design are your priority, blinds may suit you better.
Need help deciding? We offer free surveys and expert advice throughout Leicester and Loughborough. Let us help you find the perfect fit.
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Free Consultation & Expert Advice
Not sure if Portchester aluminium shutters are right for your home? Our team offers free consultations to help you make the best choice. We’ll walk you through all the options and recommend the best solution for your needs.
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Professional Installation for a Seamless Finish
Our expert fitters ensure a smooth installation process, leaving your home looking immaculate. We take care of everything, from precise measurements to professional fitting, ensuring your shutters work perfectly from day one.
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Affordable, High-Quality Shutters
We believe that security and style shouldn’t come at an unreasonable price. Our Portchester shutters are competitively priced, offering excellent value for money without compromising on quality.
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A Local, Family-Run Business You Can Trust
We’re not just another big company—we’re a local business that genuinely cares about our customers. When you choose Shutter Envy, you’re supporting a family-run company that prioritises exceptional service and quality products.
Transform Your Home with Timeless Shutters
✔ Enhanced Security with patented Italian lock system
✔ Designed for durability – perfect for indoor or outdoor spaces
✔ 4 standard colours + full bespoke options
✔ Timeless style and custom fit for every window
