Shades or Blinds? Which is right for you? In Greenwich
If you’re craving a change but feel overwhelmed by the vast choices of window solutions on the market and are hesitant to pick the wrong option for your home, we understand. There are many factors to consider including energy savings, privacy, light control and of course, style. Shades and blinds are some of the most popular window treatments and help create the aesthetic of any room by regulating the air, light and energy of the space. We can shed some light on the difference between these classic options.
First up, let’s talk blinds. These hard window covering have slats or louvers made of wood, vinyl, metal, bamboo or composite that can be adjusted for privacy and light control. The standard blinds are available with cords but for additional safety for homes with children and pets, motorized lift options and cordless versions are perfect. We love blinds since they are cost-effective, sturdy and practical. They provide more light filtering options than shades since blinds can be raised or the slats adjusted. For bedrooms or nurseries, blinds are perfect as they block out light effectively. When looking at blinds, there are a number of options including textures, colors, slat sizes and materials so the possibilities are endless. Slat sizes generally run in half inch or one inch sizes, known as mini blinds or 2 inch, known as Venetian blinds. Installation and sizing are normally prepared to fit within the window frame. Horizontal louvers are very common but vertical blinds are popular, especially on oversized windows like bay windows or on sliding patio doors.
Pro tip: add sheer curtains or a valance to soften the harder lines of blinds. This will convey a more comfortable tone to any room.
Now, let’s look at shades. Traditional window shades are soft window coverings composed of one long, continuous panel of fabric. By raising the shade, you can control your view as well as how much natural light is let into your room. The shade lifts and bunches or rolls around a rod and a roller, cord or lifting mechanism is used. Since shades can’t offer the same light filtering options as blinds, you can pick the opacity level of the fabric or liner to suit the room you’re working on. Shades are available in a wide range of colors and patterns. You can add room darkening shades behind many of the more translucent styles. There are three most popular shades:
Regulate natural light and privacy in your home so you can get a better night’s sleep or to cut the sun’s glare on a television screen.
Pull up into deep pleats, offering a soft classic look in luxe fabrics.
Are created with fabric air pockets that trap air to insulate your windows and do a great job improving temperature control.
We love showing customers affordable window solutions for any room in your home. When you call (203) 580-3362 for a free consultation, you’ll work directly with one of our talented team members who will bring the showroom to you, collaborating to make sure that you love your home even more after expert installation is over.