Shutter BoysZebra blinds or shutters in Cedar Rapids?
Cedar Rapids'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 Cedar Rapids, where 30% of homes are apartments or condos and 62% are detached houses, they compete with shutters for the same windows.
The year runs from 144 freezing nights to 12 days at 90°F or more, so whatever covers the window works in both seasons.
Sources: U.S. Census Bureau, American Community Survey 5-year estimates, 2020–2024; NOAA U.S. Climate Normals 1991–2020. Daylight and sun height: calculated from the city’s latitude.
In a house you’re staying in
62% of homes are detached houses, mostly owner-occupied (69% 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.
Winter glare
With the December sun only 25° 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 condo
With 30% of homes in multi-unit buildings, many windows here are wide and the budget goes on more of them. Zebra blinds cost less per window; shutters cost more, have nothing to wear out but the paint, and can be repainted when you redecorate.
| 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 Cedar Rapids 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 US dollars.
More about shutters in Cedar Rapids
Price your windows
Pick your look once, add every window, and see each one drawn and priced. Send it to us and we reply with your quote.