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Blinds

Blinds are window coverings that can be attached internally or externally.  Their main purpose is to protect against sunlight and to provide privacy.  But what types of blinds are available for use in the home?  We look at the most common types.

Types of Blinds

• Mini blinds – these blinds are cost effective, and come in a wide range of colours.  They are durable, easy to install, and lightweight.  However, they can be difficult to clean.
  
• Natural wood blinds – these blinds can be used in both casual and traditional rooms.  You have the option of staining or painting them to suit your décor.  It is best not to use them in cold or wet areas of the home.
  
• Vertical blinds – these are excellent for wide windows or doors as they can be drawn to one side.  Vertical blinds are available in a range of colours, sizes, and materials and you have control over exactly how much light you want in the room.  However, they can be hard to keep in place and can easily fall off track clips.
  
• Standard blinds – because standard blinds have wider vanes (panels), they are great for deep windows and can achieve a more classic look in your home.  These blinds can be noisy when opening or closing them and may be heavy.
  
• Roller blinds – with these blinds, you have a varying degree of light control.  They are well priced and can match any décor.  However, they can look boring if not chosen well and you may have problems with insulation, both for noise and weather.
  
• Cellular blinds – also known as honeycomb blinds, these are functional and attractive blinds that take up very little space when open.  They are also excellent for insulation.  Cellular blinds can be tricky to clean, though.
  
• Pleated blinds – these are a cheaper alternative for cellular blinds.  They are very versatile and give you a great range of light control.  Pleated blinds can flatten easily and are not as energy efficient as cellular blinds.
  
• Roman blinds – these blinds hang flat when they are down and fold up neatly when they are raised.  They are great for sound insulation and you can get them in just about any fabric that you choose.    However, roman blinds are expensive and they do need to be taken down for cleaning.
  
• Solar blinds – solar blinds diffuse light and UV rays, keep rooms cool, and help to manage light glare on TVs and computers.  They have less privacy than other blinds and the colour range is limited.
  
• Woven blinds – these are made from natural materials and may be cut to order.  If you want more light control, privacy liners are available.  The exotic weaves can cost more and the blinds themselves may be more delicate than other kinds.
  
• Window shades – these are available with both horizontal and vertical vanes.  Window blinds can be coordinated with furniture and they are very forgiving if they are accidentally brushed against.  However, they are expensive and may be difficult to clean.
  
• Outdoor blinds – generally fall into two different categories – motorised or manual.  Types of outdoor blinds include sunshades, retractable awnings, folding arm awnings, cassette blinds, and patio blinds.
  
• Shutters – these window treatments add value to your home and they are normally made from wood or poly-resin.  The slats come in sizes from 2 ½ inches to 4 ½ inches, and you can find a shutter that will suit your home, no matter what style it is.