When homeowners choose window treatments, they often focus on the immediate appeal.

How do they look?

Will they suit my décor?

What many forget to consider, though, is the long-term cost of maintaining these treatments.

While both shutters and fabric-based window coverings have their benefits, maintenance costs can be a major deciding factor over time.

If you’re wondering which is easier — and cheaper — to maintain, you’re not alone.

Window treatments, after all, are an investment.

So, let’s discover the ongoing costs of maintaining shutters versus fabric-based window treatments and see where the real savings lie.

Understanding shutters and fabric-based window treatments

Shutters, often made of composite, wood, or other durable materials, are fixed panels that offer light control, privacy, and an elegant touch to any room.

They come in various styles like full height, café style, or tier on tier, and once installed, they blend seamlessly into the window frame, becoming a permanent fixture in your home.

On the other hand, fabric window treatments like curtains, drapes, and blinds are typically lighter and more flexible in terms of styling.

They come in countless fabrics, from light sheers to heavy blackout drapes, allowing homeowners to easily swap them out as trends and tastes change.

But how do these two compare when it comes to upkeep?

Initial cost versus long-term maintenance

At first glance, fabric-based window coverings might seem like the more affordable option.

After all, a set of curtains or blinds can cost significantly less than installing custom shutters.

But what many homeowners don’t realize is that maintenance costs can add up quickly with fabric-based treatments, especially when compared to shutters, which really are low-maintenance in the long run.

Maintenance costs of shutters

One of the biggest advantages of shutters is their durability and ease of care.

Since shutters are made of solid materials like wood or composite, they resist everyday wear and tear better than fabric.

Dust?

No problem!

A quick wipe down with a damp cloth usually does the trick.

There’s no need to worry about stains, fading, or constant cleaning.

Take Mimeo composite shutters, for example, made of a durable composite material.

These shutters not only offer a sleek and polished look, but they’re also designed to withstand moisture and resist damage.

Whether installed in the kitchen, bathroom, or living room, you’ll find them remarkably easy to maintain.

In our experience, many clients who have switched to shutters from fabric treatments often share the same sentiment: “I wish I had made the change sooner”.

One client, in particular, shared how they initially opted for fabric curtains but found themselves constantly battling dust buildup and having to send them out for professional cleaning every few months.

Years later, when they eventually installed shutters, the difference in upkeep was night and day.

The shutters required hardly any attention, and they could focus on enjoying their home rather than maintaining it.

Maintenance costs of fabric window treatments

Fabric window treatments, while often more affordable upfront, tend to come with higher long-term maintenance costs.

Depending on the type of fabric, you may find yourself needing to clean or replace them more frequently than you’d like.

Curtains and drapes, for instance, are notorious for attracting dust, pet hair, and allergens, making regular cleaning essential.

This can range from simple gentle vacuuming to professional cleaning, particularly for heavier drapes that can’t be easily machine-washed.

Additionally, fabric treatments are prone to fading from sun exposure.

Over time, UV rays can cause even the most durable fabrics to lose their colour, leading to patchy, dull window coverings.

This is particularly common in rooms with a lot of sunlight, such as living rooms or conservatories.

Replacing faded curtains or blinds can quickly become costly, especially if you opt for high-quality fabrics or custom-made designs.

Certain treatments, such as Roman blinds or roller blinds, may seem easier to maintain because of their simpler construction.

However, they still require regular cleaning and are vulnerable to wear and tear, especially in homes with children or pets.

A single stain or tear could mean replacing the entire blind, which adds to your overall maintenance costs.

Another factor to consider is that fabric treatments may need to be changed out seasonally.

Heavy drapes might be swapped for lighter curtains in the summer, leading to additional expense in storage and maintenance.

So, how do the numbers add up when comparing the maintenance costs of shutters versus fabric window treatments?

Shutters

The initial installation cost may be higher, but long-term maintenance is minimal.

A simple dusting or occasional wipe with a damp cloth is all that’s needed to keep them looking new.

They’re also highly durable, with many shutters lasting for decades before any repairs or replacements are necessary.

This makes window shutters a low-maintenance, long-lasting investment.

Fabric window treatments

While curtains, drapes, or blinds may cost less initially, ongoing maintenance can include dry cleaning, professional services, or frequent replacements due to wear and fading.

The cost of cleaning products, repair kits, or even replacement blinds adds up over the years.

On top of this, fabric-based window coverings are more susceptible to changes in fashion and style, meaning homeowners may feel pressured to update them more often than they would with timeless shutters.

Which is better for your home?

So, which window treatment makes more sense for you?

Consider your lifestyle.

Do you have the time or inclination to keep up with regular cleaning, especially for large or heavy fabric drapes?

If you prefer something that’s virtually maintenance-free and built to last, shutters are a smart choice.

They’re perfect for busy households where easy upkeep is a priority.

On the other hand, if you enjoy the flexibility of changing your window treatments with the seasons or have a passion for fabrics, you might be willing to take on the added maintenance that fabric-based treatments require.

Still, you’ll need to weigh the costs of frequent cleaning and potential replacements over time.

Ask yourself:

How often do you want to deal with the upkeep of your window coverings?

If the answer is “as little as possible”, shutters are likely the more economical option in the long run.

Conclusion

In the end, as you weigh the options, shutters clearly have the advantage.

While fabric window treatments might seem like the cheaper option at first, their ongoing cleaning, repair, and replacement costs can easily add up over time.

Shutters, by contrast, are a durable, low-maintenance solution that can save you both time and money in the long run.

Want to know how shutters could work for your home?

Book a free survey today to explore your options and start saving on long-term maintenance costs.