A+ Blinds has your complete buyer’s guide to blinds and shades for your windows.
Often times when the term “blinds” is used, it refers both to blinds and shades. While there are many different types of blind and shade options to choose from, they all serve the same basic function. However, there are a few fundamental differences between the two that you should be aware of.
The Difference Between Blinds and Shades
Blinds can come in a multitude of types, materials and sizes. All blinds have slats that can be adjusted up and down or tilt from side to side, to control the amount of sunlight that enters a room. Most blinds also feature a cord located on one side so that you can lift them up and down. A rod is usually located on the other side, which controls the tilt of the blinds and allows the slats to open and close.
Shades also come in a variety of types, materials, and sizes. However, unlike blinds, they are made from one piece of material, not individual slats. So while they too can be adjusted up and down, they cannot be manipulated from side to side.
What are the Different Types of Blinds
Vertical Blinds
Vertical blinds have individual slats that run along a track that is located at the top of the blind. Vertical blinds can either open from side to side or they can part down the middle, depending on the style. These are often a popular choice for patio doors and even floor to ceiling windows. However, they can also be used to cover smaller windows as well.
Panel Blinds
Panel blinds are also a popular choice for patio doors and very large windows. They feature different sections that move along a track. This allows the user to open and close them as needed.
Blinds Materials
There are many different types of blinds, but there are also a wide variety of materials they can be constructed from as well. The type of material you use for window coverings will likely depend on what style you want for each space in your home.
Wood
Wood blinds are always an extremely popular choice for homeowners. This is because of their versatility in so many different styles of homes. The wood creates a natural beauty and warmth, and they are available in many different stains, types of wood and colors to fit your personal taste.
Although wood blinds are generally a solid choice, in rooms where there is humidity and moisture, they will not be the best choice for those spaces. This is because the natural wood material can expand and contract over time, which makes them vulnerable to warping, splitting, cracking or breaking.
Faux Wood
Faux wood blinds offer the same beautiful look as the wood option. However, they are made from a synthetic material, which makes them much more affordable than wood blinds. Another benefit is that they can be used in rooms with higher humidity, like bathrooms, since they aren’t made from natural wood. Because of their durability and lower price tag, faux wood blinds have quickly become a popular choice for any space in a home.
Plastic Blinds
Plastic blinds are the most economical of all the available materials. They come in a variety of colors and sizes. While they are appropriate for all applications, they do not have the same sleek, modern look that you’ll find with other options like wood. The other concern to be aware of is that because these blinds are made from thin plastics, they damage more easily.
Aluminum Blinds
Aluminum blinds offer a clean, uncluttered look. They are comprised of thin, aluminum slats and are another cost-effective option. Recently, there have been more upgraded versions added to the market, making them a fashionable option for any home.
Aluminum blinds can be a durable option. They are resistant to moisture, which makes them a good choice for areas like kitchens and bathrooms. However, there are a few drawbacks. While they can be a trendy option for the home, because they are metal, they can be noisy at the window. They also tend to collect dust over time, which shows more noticeably on the darker colored vanes.
What to Consider Before Ordering Blinds
The most important part of deciding on window treatments is figuring out what’s most important to you. Consider your personal tastes, as well as the style of your home. Some of the most common traits people look for when shopping for blinds are cost-effectiveness, visual impact, light control, increased insulation and how well the blinds match the window shape.
If you have questions about how to choose the right blinds for your space, A+ Blinds has you covered (pun intended). Give us a call today at (317) 698-5445 for your free consultation!