Shutter BoysZebra blinds or shutters in Cape Breton?
Cape Breton'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 Cape Breton, where 15% of homes are apartments or condos and 74% are detached houses, they compete with shutters for the same windows.
The year runs from 159 freezing nights to 3 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.
In a house you’re staying in
74% of homes are detached houses, mostly owner-occupied (71% 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 21° 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.
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 Cape Breton 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.
Price your windows
Choose Canada in the designer, enter millimetres or inches, and we reply with your quote in Canadian dollars.