Shutter BoysZebra blinds or shutters in North Cowichan?
North Cowichan's homes and windows
Zebra blinds are a roller blind with two layers of striped fabric, sheer and solid, that slide past each other to let light in or block it. In North Cowichan, where 18% of homes are apartments or condos and 63% are detached houses, they compete with shutters for the same windows.
The year runs from 45 freezing nights to 2 days at 30 °C or more, so whatever covers the window works in both seasons.
Sources: Statistics Canada, 2021 Census of Population; Environment and Climate Change Canada, Canadian Climate Normals 1991–2020. Daylight and sun height: calculated from the city’s latitude.
Winter glare
With the December sun only 18° high at midday, low light shines straight in. Zebra stripes cut it only by also cutting the view; shutter louvers can be angled to send it up to the ceiling instead.
In a house you’re staying in
63% of homes are detached houses, mostly owner-occupied (77% overall). Shutters are fixed to the house and usually stay when it sells; zebra blinds are usually replaced once the fabric or the roller wears out.
Cords and chains
Zebra blinds usually raise with a chain or cord, or a motor. Shutters have no cords at all. Canada has regulated corded window coverings since May 1, 2021.
| Feature | Poplar shutters (ours) | Zebra blinds |
|---|---|---|
| Light and privacy | Tilt the louvers | Line up or offset the stripes |
| Clear view | Swing the panels open | Roll the blind up |
| Cords | None | Usually a chain or cord |
| Refresh later | Repaint the wood | Replace the fabric or blind |
| Cost per window | More | Less |
Where our shutters fit
Every Shutter Boys shutter is made from solid American poplar to the measurements you take, then shipped to North Cowichan for you to fit. We don’t sell zebra blinds; if shutters suit your windows, price them window by window.
The designer shows the price of each window as you add it, in Canadian dollars.
More about shutters in North Cowichan
Price your windows
Choose Canada in the designer, enter millimetres or inches, and we reply with your quote in Canadian dollars.