Blind and Shade Options

Do you want blinds or shades? Ask yourself these questions, then search for “best blinds stores” to find a shop nearby:

1. How much flexibility do you need in terms of natural light?

Blinds have tiltable slats you adjust to let light in. Shades have to be pulled open to let in full natural light.

2. What kind of look are you going for?

Blinds offer a handsome, sharp look. The full window pane can stay covered at all times–even with the slats open–for a more finished aesthetic.

Shades, while exposing the window when open, create a softer look.

3. How much privacy does the room need?

Blinds are often preferred for bedrooms and bathrooms–where privacy is desired–because they stay “closed” even when admitting daylight.

4. How do you feel about dust?

Horizontal blinds attract dust and grime. To keep them fresh, you’ll need to wipe the slats by hand, or have your blinds store clean them off-site. Fabric shades should be regularly vacuumed and spot-cleaned or sent to the dry cleaners.

Blind Types

Blinds come in the following materials:

• Vinyl: Least expensive, come in many colors
• Aluminum: Less expensive, easy-care, come in many colors
• Faux wood: Come in a number of colors, good for areas with moisture
• Wood: available with polished or painted finishes; great for offices and dens

Blinds with wider horizontal slats make windows look larger and give the illusion of more space. Vertical blinds work well for picture windows or on sliding glass/patio doors.

Shade Types

Shades offer tremendous versatility and lend a warmer, softer feel than blinds. By varying texture, patterns and fabric weights, you can create any look or mood.

Here are some popular shade types and where they work best:

• Woven wood (such as bamboo) shades are good in places where you want to filter out sunlight to read or work on a screen
• Tight weaves like twill or microsuede offer privacy for bedrooms and bathrooms
• Roman shades have wide pleats that flatten when raised. These are excellent in the dining room, living room and family room
• Honeycomb, also called cellular shades, have horizontal rows of air pockets for energy savings
• Blackout shades use a special fabric that blocks all of the light for bedrooms and home theaters
• Solar shades protect you and your furniture from UV rays without completely blocking the view. They are good for sunrooms, children’s rooms, dining areas and offices with too much light