Don’t Be BLIND-ed By Options - A Beginners Guide to Blinds
If you’re shopping for blinds, or even researching them for your home, it can be easy to get confused by all of the option out there. There are different types and styles, and each type has its own unique characteristics and area of application. In this article we’ll take a look at some of the most common kinds of window blinds and where you can use them in your home:
Vertical Blinds
Blinds made of vertical hanging panels of fabric (or another material) are the most common window blinds. This is because of their functional flexibility. They can be used on fixed glass windows, tall casement windows, angular windows and even bow windows. The fabrics are typically sewn or fixed over metal or plastic for privacy and light control.
Vertical blinds are suitable for every room. They come in different styles to blend with various room decors - there are even fire retardant blinds for the kitchen! They offer protection against UV rays and allow for good air circulation. They are also an excellent choice for low-ceiling rooms as when they are used correctly they can enhance the perceived height the room they’re hung in.
Horizontal (Venetian) Blinds
Horizontal blinds can come in wood, plastic, or aluminum and have adjustable louvers for light control. They are a perfect choice for low light rooms. Blinds with more slats per foot offer better light control than the widely spaced options. If you want to keep out every ray of light, blinds without cord holes in the slats are the best option, though you do have a lesser degree of control with them.
The blinds are ideal for both rustic and modern home styles. Dust collection is the main issue with these blinds. However, the latest products undergo anti-static electrify treatment at the factory to prevent dust build up.
Honeycomb Blinds
They are an excellent choice for windows having nonstandard shapes. Again, honey comb folds trap air making these blinds thermal and sound insulators. They are perfect for all rooms and can be installed horizontally or vertically. They come in different styles to match the décor of any room surrounding. They are also available in a perfect fit frame for a smooth, lustrous finish.
Roman Blinds
These are one wide panel of fabric that cover the window when down, and gathers in cascading folds when drawn. They are appropriate for rooms that require luxurious looks such as living rooms, bedrooms and dining room. They are also the best choice for chilly rooms or during cold weather, as they have no gaps of connections from which air can get through. Depending on the material, Roman blinds can be vacuumed or dry cleaned.
Roller Blinds
Roller blinds are often one piece of heavy fabric wrapped neatly around a tube above the window. With the pull of a chord, it rolls down into position. Modern roller blinds have a spring loaded roller for a quick snap back and precise positioning. It can be used in all rooms to give the rich, old-fashioned look. Cordless and automated roller blinds are also available.
Perfect Fit Blinds
They are blinds which come with a discreet frame that is easily clipped between the glazing and beading of uPVC windows. They fit perfectly into windows to become an integral part of the window. They can be used in all rooms. They come in honeycomb and Venetian styles.
Shutters
Window shutters are louvered panels held within a frame. The unique appearance of shutter adds an elegant touch to any room. The louvers are tilted using a hidden tilt rod. Some styles allow the tilting of the shutter itself. For a more contemporary feel, you should opt for white painted louvers. Unlike the traditional outdoor shutters, plantation shutters can be hung inside the windows.
Hopefully this guide has helped you learn a bit more about what you may want in a window covering. For even more information and expert advice, why don’t you contact one of our representatives?
