Whether it’s decor, you’re after, or perhaps just a little privacy, window blinds are welcome additions to just about any space. It’s an exciting thought to add that final X-factor to make a room impressive. However, the nature of the blinds market can be overwhelming. With so many styles and shapes on the market, selecting a suitable design for your home is no simple task.
Make use of our tips and buyers guide to navigate your way to the perfect blinds for you.
Types of Window Blinds
Back in the day, window blinds were quite a simple concept: plastic slats standing vertically and sliding in on themselves. Today we have blinds at every angle and with all types of fabric, moving in every direction.
Modern window blinds can be manual (maneuvered via a chord) or automatic (powered by electricity). Some blinds offer full coverage of light and blinds that only shade partially. Most blinds are made up of individual panels whereas some can be one solid sheet scored into racks.
The following are some of the types of blinds one can expect to find readily available on the market:
- Roller blinds: Single sheet blinds that roll down like a curtain
- Sunscreen blinds: Block the view but not the glare
- Panel glide blinds: Large panel blinds laying vertically but sliding horizontally
- Whisper cellular blinds: Ultimate insulation blinds
- Timber Venetian blinds: Welcome in light but gives optimum privacy
- Children’s blinds: Single sheet blinds that can be printed on
These are just a few of the many styles. The window blind industry is a creative one and is therefore ever changing and evolving. It moves with the trends of our times, particularly responding to changes within the home decor category. So, browse until you find the perfect style for you.
Proper Installation
Window blinds, also known as chorded internal window coverings, should ideally be installed by industry professionals. While it’s possible to purchase store-bought, readymade blinds and install them yourself — it’s not recommended. The final quality will be noticeably different when comparing a professionally done blind job to DIY installation.
Precision and durability are usually synonymous with blinds. However, these are two criteria that are not always guaranteed with self-installation.
What’s more, window blinds need to be assembled with safety in mind. Chords and panes can pose as dangers to small children. A qualified manufacturer will be able to put in your blinds in the least threatening way possible.
Benefits of Quality Blinds
There is much to be gained by adding quality window blinds to your home. Window blinds truly are investments more than they are home expenses.
Once you’ve selected the perfect blind style for your space, you’ll notice just how much of an asset these devices have become — and how reliant you’ve become on them in turn.
Privacy
Perhaps the biggest advantage to fitting quality window blinds, privacy is something you simply can’t put a price tag on.
This is usually the most common reason individuals seek out blinds in the first place. Having passersby peeking into your windows is both annoying and a threat to your safety.
Window blinds form a physical barrier between the interior of a home and the outside world. Everyone and everything on the inside will be kept private & secure from the prying eyes outside. Blinds are essentially extra layers of safety in the process of creating a safe and secure home.
Convenience
You may be wondering why you should purchase window blinds as opposed to regular curtains.
First and foremost, curtains are increasingly difficult to maintain & keep clean. They require regular removal for washing and then need to be hung up again. Window blinds on the other hand simply require a wipe. The upkeep is far easier and less time-consuming.
Window blinds also offer versatility. They can both insulate as well as air out a room. This is perfect for shifts in weather patterns.
Curtains are not as convenient. They tend only to insulate a space when in use. There is little to no air flow allowed through them, and they offer no coverage when open. Blinds at least offer partial coverage even when the slats are rotated open.
Affordability
When you compare the cost of quality window blinds to the lifespan that they offer; they become worthwhile, affordable investments.
Window blinds are durable enough to withstand the harshness of the elements. Intense heat or violent light won’t warp or ruin them over time. They are made to last.
In addition to this, blinds offer protection from these elements to the items inside your house. Your belongings and home interior will be less susceptible to damage from sun, wind or moisture.
Added Value
Upon successful installation of window blinds the value of your home goes up almost instantaneously. For any potential home buyer, well-fitted blinds are inviting when viewing a space. Buyers see it as a weight off their shoulders regarding privacy and window coverage when they move in.
Because of the creative nature of the industry, window blinds also can generate stylish appeal within a home. Depending on the blinds you have chosen, your space can go from drab to fab in a matter of minutes.
Conclusion
Window blinds are fast becoming the rage in home improvement. We hope that this list of tips and facts has taught you a thing or two before you begin your blind installation journey.
Remember: Window blinds are an investment, not an expense. Now simply pick your favorite and invest in your home.