5 Mistakes Homeowners Make When Buying Window Treatments
Buying new window treatments seems simple, but there are key things to think about when deciding which window treatments work best for you. Between styles, materials, measuring, and installation, there’s more to it than picking something that looks nice when browsing online. At Louver Shop, we’ve helped thousands of homeowners avoid costly missteps when it comes to plantation shutters, blinds, and shades.
Here are the five biggest mistakes we see — and how to avoid them.
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1. Choosing Style Over Function
Everyone loves a beautiful window treatment, but looks shouldn’t be the only deciding factor. A common mistake is picking something that fits your décor but not your lifestyle. For instance, wood shutters look stunning, but in high-humidity spaces like bathrooms, they can warp over time. Faux wood or composite options, like our LouverWood Plantation Shutters, are far better suited for those areas.
Similarly, a sleek roller shade might fit a modern home’s aesthetic, but if you need privacy or light control, blackout shades may be a smarter choice.
Pro Tip: Start with function, then find the style that fits.
2. Ignoring Sun Exposure and Energy Efficiency
Not all windows get the same amount of sunlight. South- and west-facing windows often receive intense heat and UV rays throughout the day, which can fade furniture and increase your energy bill. Homeowners frequently overlook this when choosing window treatments. Choosing energy-efficient window treatments like Insulating cellular shades or plantation shutters with adjustable louvers can dramatically improve temperature control and reduce glare.
Pro Tip: Always consider how much light and heat each room gets before deciding on materials or colors.
3. Skipping Professional Measuring
One of the biggest mistakes homeowners make is thinking they can measure their own windows accurately. Even being off by a quarter of an inch can lead to plantation shutters that don’t close properly, blinds that hang unevenly, or shades that don’t fit the frame. Each window is unique, especially in older homes where openings may not be perfectly square.
When you work with Louver Shop, our trained Design Consultants handle every measurement with precision. They know how to account for window depth, trim, and mounting type, details most DIY measurements overlook.
Pro tip: Let the experts handle it. Professional measuring ensures a flawless fit the first time and saves you from costly mistakes later.
4. Overlooking Installation Quality
Even the best product can perform poorly if it’s installed incorrectly. Misaligned shutters or crooked blinds not only look bad but can also wear out faster. DIY installation might save a few dollars up front, but professional installation ensures longevity and performance.
Pro Tip: You get what you pay for — precision matters.
5. Choosing the Cheapest Option Instead of the Best Value
It’s natural to want to save money, but with window treatments, the lowest price often leads to disappointment down the road. Cheap shutters, blinds, or shades may look fine at first, but they rarely hold up over time. Poor-quality materials can warp, fade, or fail to operate smoothly after just a few years.
At Louver Shop, we believe in quality that lasts. Our custom plantation shutters have been proudly made in the USA for over 50 years. They’re designed to stand the test of time and enhance your home’s value. Every product we offer is one we’d be proud to have in our own homes.
Pro Tip: Don’t let price alone drive your decision. Invest in quality once, and you’ll enjoy beautiful, long-lasting results for years to come.
Make the Smart Choice for Your Home
The right window treatments can completely transform a home — but only if they’re chosen and installed correctly. Avoid these common mistakes, and you’ll end up with plantation shutters, blinds, or shades that look beautiful, function flawlessly, and last for years.
At Louver Shop, we make it easy by offering a free in-home design consultation, expert guidance, custom fitting, and professional installation — so your windows get the treatment they deserve.
Ready to see the difference Louver Shop window treatments make? Contact us today to schedule your FREE consultation.