Shutter BoysZebra blinds or shutters in Chapel Hill?
Chapel Hill'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 Chapel Hill, where 44% of homes are apartments or condos and 41% are detached houses, they compete with shutters for the same windows.
The year runs from 68 freezing nights to 45 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.
Afternoon sun
On the 45 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.
In a condo
With 44% 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.
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 Chapel Hill 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 Chapel Hill
Zebra blinds vs shutters near Chapel Hill
- Durham 9 mi
- Cary 16 mi
- Apex 17 mi
- Raleigh 24 mi
- Burlington 26 mi
- Wake Forest 30 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.