Choosing the right blinds
When it comes to choosing blinds, there is a vast range of options. Modern materials and techniques have allowed the designers and manufacturers of blinds to cater for many different needs. For anyone who is daunted by the variety of blind types and styles on offer, it may be helpful to stop and think about what you want to achieve by installing blinds. For instance, do you want to retain warmth in winter, or beat the heat in summer?
Once you are clear about what function the blinds need to perform, it will be easier for you to choose the perfect window treatment for your home.
Let’s look at some of the most important criteria to be considered when shopping for blinds.
Privacy
Internal and external blinds or shutters are a great way to ensure that the interior of your home is for your eyes only. When closed, awnings and Roman, Holland and roller styles of blind in heavy fabrics shut out the view in both directions.
If you still want to enjoy the view from a window, you may want to consider blinds made from translucent fabrics or e-screen awnings. Blinds and shutters made from rigid materials have adjustable panels, slats or louvres, which can also allow you to see out while maintaining privacy.
Ventilation
Blinds and awnings constructed from solid fabrics can inhibit air movement. If you are looking for a window treatment that allows you to take advantage of cooling breezes in summer, consider blinds and shutters with slats and louvres that can be adjusted to provide both shade and ventilation.
Space
Many types of blinds, including rollers, Romans, verticals and Venetians, retract to the edges of the window space as they are opened. If you want to make the most of a beautiful view, look for blinds that take up the least window space when opened.
Insulation
Blinds, awnings and shutters have useful thermal qualities. If you want to save on cooling and heating costs, reduce heat transfer through windows, and keep rooms warmer in cold weather and cooler in hot weather, think about the insulating properties of different types of window treatment.
Cost
The simplest window treatments – external awnings and interior blinds like vertical, Holland and Roman styles – utilise minimal materials and fittings and are the most affordable types of blind.
Cleaning
It’s important to consider how blinds are to be cleaned and the conditions they will encounter. If you are looking for blinds for a kitchen window, venetian blinds made from pvc and plastic can be washed to remove grease deposits, and are likely to be a more practical choice than something like a canvas Roman blind.
Weather protection
In addition to providing privacy, insulation and shade, outdoor shutters protect window glass from damage from hailstones and flying debris. If you live in an area that is subject to wild weather, consider installing shutters outside windows. Locked shutters also offer enhanced security and protection from break-ins.
Window shape
Windows that are not the standard square or rectangular shape can limit your choice of window treatments. Consider custom-made window treatments such as plantation shutters that make the most of interesting window shapes.
Blinds, shutters and awnings can improve ventilation in hot weather, conserve heat and warmth in cold weather, and provide shade and privacy all year round. Carefully considering the functions that are most important to you will help you to make an informed choice on blinds that are right for your home.