Traditional window coverings such as shutters, curtains and blinds have always been used as a form of temperature control. In the summer they keep the home cooler, and, in the winter, they’ll make sure things are nice and toasty. Thermal window shutters provide a much thicker and more solid material barrier than curtains or blinds, preventing warm air from escaping.
We don’t expect you to just take our word for it though. For a fuller picture, it’s important to look at the research to understand how shutters improve insulation and how they can help reduce energy costs.
How Effective Are Shutters At Keeping Heat In?
Research on Heat Loss Reduction
Historic England did some research into the thermal performance of windows. The study looked at how much heat was lost through the glass and the frame of a window, and they tested some simple insulation methods to see how effective they were at preventing heat loss.
The test results showed that well-fitting shutters can reduce heat loss through windows by up to 58%.
Note: the shutters must be well-fitted! If the thermal window shutters aren’t installed to fit properly, then that can leave room for warm air to escape or for draughts to sweep in. Thankfully, our Shutterly Fabulous staff are here to measure, advise and install your custom shutters for that all-important perfect fit.
Shutters & Secondary Glazing
How about shutters combined with other insulation methods, such as secondary glazing? A study by Historic Environment Scotland into the energy efficiency of traditional buildings looked at just that.
They found that a combination of secondary glazing and shutters reduced heat loss through windows by up to 75%.
So, whether it’s on their own or in combination with other insulation methods, well-fitted shutters can prevent over half of all heat lost through windows. Yes, half!
How To Use Shutters To Keep Heat In?
Are shutters good for insulation? Yes. Is there a knack to keeping your home nice and cosy? Also, yes. But don’t worry – it’s not rocket science.
Step one
keep your shutters open during the day. That way, you’re flooding your space with the sun’s rays and warming up your home.
Step two
This is just as easy. Simply close your slats once the day has passed peak temperature. And that’s it! By following this technique, you’ll trap more warm air in your home – and save on your energy bills too.
Which Shutters Are Best for Insulation?
Solid Panel Shutters and Full-Height Shutters
Well-fitted thermal window shutters of any style or material can keep heat in and prevent it from escaping. But if you’re really looking to keep out the cold air, solid shutters are the most effective solution. Why? Because solid panel wood shutters form a thick barrier between the window and the outside.
As the name suggests, these shutters have solid panels that are not louvered or slatted. They’re made from hardwood – specifically, Paulownia wood – a strong yet lightweight material that adds a thick layer of insulation to any window. This solidity also comes in handy for noise reduction. For insulative purposes, you’ll also want to get complete window coverage with full height shutters.
Tier-on-Tier Shutters: Flexible & Insulating
Tier on tier shutters are also effective insulators. Like full height shutters, they cover the full length of the window, but you can open either the top or the bottom panels whilst keeping the other section closed. This can help let in more warm air during the warmest part of the day.
Can Shutters Save On Energy Costs?
Energy costs have risen steadily for a while and were increased again at the start of 2025, with no signs of slowing just yet. In fact, prices have risen by 43% since 2019. Unfortunately, one can’t simply wave a magic wand to bring down energy costs, but there are some things you can do to cut down on usage.
With energy costs on the rise, it’s crucial to find ways to cut heating bills. According to recent research by the BBSA (British Blind and Shutter Association), 18% of heat loss in homes occurs through the windows. This illustrates just how important proper window insulation is for anyone wanting to save on energy bills.
How Much Could You Save?
Here’s a rough estimate of UK heating costs (as of early 2025):
- 1-bed flat/house: ~£1,261 per year on gas
- 2-3 bed home: ~£1,738 per year
- 4-bed home: ~£2,435 per year
Please note that while energy prices are fluctuating in 2025, we have used data from the first few months of 2025.
Since 60% of heating costs go towards maintaining room temperature, this amounts to around £756 per year for a one-bedroom home, according to the National Energy Foundation [6].
If you’ve insulated your windows with well-fitted shutters, you’ll retain more heat. If you’re retaining more heat, you’ll be using less gas or electricity to heat your home, which means that you’re going to save on heating bills. Simple!
You’re probably thinking you don’t need to insulate your windows if you have double glazing, but that’s not the case. Plantation shutters will improve your double-glazed windows’ insulation by up to 28%.
While the exact amount you save will vary, the bottom line is the same – you’ll cut your heating bill with well-fitted window shutters. Think of them as an investment that marries practicality and style.
Ready to Insulate Your Home with Shutters?
If you’d like to talk with our team about how shutters can help to insulate your home, feel free call us on 0800 970 0800 or send an email to hello@shutterlyfabulous.com.
If you want to take the next step to saving on energy bills with shutters, book a free appointment today.