Shutter BoysZebra blinds or shutters in Silver Spring?
Silver Spring'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 Silver Spring, where 65% of homes are apartments or condos and 30% are detached houses, they compete with shutters for the same windows.
The year runs from 95 freezing nights to 30 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 condo
With 65% 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.
Winter glare
With the December sun only 28° 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.
Afternoon sun
On the 30 days a year that reach 90°F, a zebra blind is either up or down; tilting shutter louvers block high sun and keep the view below.
| 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 Silver Spring 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 Silver Spring
Zebra blinds vs shutters near Silver Spring
- Wheaton 4 mi
- Bethesda 6 mi
- Washington 7 mi
- Aspen Hill 7 mi
- Rockville 9 mi
- Arlington 9 mi
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.