The Difference Between Shutters, Blinds and Shades
People often refer to window treatments like shutters, blinds and shades interchangeably — yet these terms refer to distinct products …
Learn MoreChoosing the right window coverings for your home can transform the space's style and function. Your window sills are easy to overlook during the selection process, but factoring them in is key to achieving the ideal finish.
At Colorado Shade and Shutter, we’ve helped thousands of homeowners make confident, informed decisions about window coverings. We'll walk you through the ways different types of sills — from deep, decorative ledges to flat or minimal designs — can impact shutter style, installation and overall appearance inside your home.
A window sill does more than frame the bottom of your window. It determines how your shutters are mounted, how smoothly they operate and even how finished the final product looks.
For example, a deep or extended window sill can limit how certain shutter frames sit inside the opening. In contrast, if you're installing plantation shutters on a window without a sill, you'll generally have more mounting options and fewer limitations when designing. In either case, it's important to consider the sill profile when measuring and designing shutters.
Your window sill is a design feature in its own right. It may be painted wood, stained oak, tile or even marble — and that surface can either complement or clash with the shutters you install. Here are some things that matter when you're considering installing shutters.
If your window sill has a natural wood finish, you may want a shutter style that complements that look. For example, white composite plantation shutters pair beautifully with stained wood window sills, offering a clean, timeless finish.
The overall design of your sill can hint at the type of shutter frame that will look best. A thick, decorative sill in a traditional home may pair well with a wider, more detailed shutter frame.
In contrast, modern spaces with simple, flush sills often benefit from low-profile frames that keep the look clean and contemporary.
One of the biggest factors affected by your window sill is whether to install your shutters inside the window opening or outside on the wall or trim.
A deep, flat sill is great for inside mounts, allowing the shutters to sit snugly within the frame. On the other hand, angled or narrow sills may require an outside mount to avoid gaps or awkward overlaps. The right choice depends entirely on your specific window and design goals.
At Colorado Shade and Shutter, we pay attention to the details — including how your window sills affect your shutter options. Our team will handle everything from measuring your windows to coordinating directly with the manufacturer and installing the shutters. We can also assist with warranty claims and shutter service after installation.
Need help deciding? Schedule a free in-home estimate or visit our Denver showroom to see our interior window coverings in person. Let our expert team walk you through your options and bring your vision to life.