Horizontal or Vertical Blinds – Up And Down or Side to Side?
When it comes to blinds, there are a huge variety in styling, materials, slat size and more. But perhaps the biggest, most obvious groups to break them down into? Vertical blinds and horizontal blinds. This time on the Budget Blinds Scottsdale blog we’re offering you the info you need to decide if horizontal or vertical blinds are the right window covering solution for you!
Horizon vs Vertical
First, Let’s look at the commonalities between the two types. Where and how do they overlap? When we recognize those similarities first it’ll be easier to examine the differences.
Vertical and Horizontal Blind Similarities
Regardless of orientation, all blinds are alike in two things - they are made of similar materials, and their ability to filter light. Blinds are great for blocking light (maybe not perfect, as light will creep between and around slats) and they can be made of the same materials such as PVC. Horizontal blinds typical have a wider variety of materials to be made of – you don’t see many wood vertical blinds, let’s say that.
When Vertical Blinds Win
Vertical blinds are a great option for a few different openings. Sliding doors are perhaps the most commonly seen application of vertical blinds, especially here in Scottsdale where just about every backdoor is sliding. That said, vertical blinds are a great option for windows that are particularly wide where horizontal blinds aren’t practical. Sure you could spend some real dough to get custom blinds that fit an ultra wide window, but if you’re looking for budgets or simplicity’s sake then vertical is the way to go.
Vertical blinds also win if you’re looking for a lower upkeep option! Vertical blinds are the easier option when it comes to cleaning, thanks to their orientation they don’t collect nearly as much dust. Also the two materials they are most commonly made from (faux wood and PVC) make for easy materials to simply wipe down with most cleaners without fear of damaging the blind.
The other scenario where vertical blinds beat out horizontal? In light blocking! Because of their larger slats, vertical blinds block out more light on average as compared to their horizontal kin.
When Horizontal Blinds Win
Horizontal blinds are the right option for tall and narrow windows, thanks to their design and construction. You want to have as much lighting control as you need and slats moving up and down (as horizontal blinds do) will let in the right amount of light rather than having 4 really tall slats that open up a ton of light with the slightest tilt.
That said, horizontal blinds are able to be installed in just about every situation: doors, unusual windows, you name it. The one spot they can’t work? Skylights or other angled windows.
Horizontal blinds are also great when you want more privacy, generally speaking. The slats move less when opening and closing, and unlike their vertical cousins they don’t sway or move, protecting the privacy of your business or home.
Horizontal blinds are also a quieter option which may come as a surprise to some – the ‘quietness’ of your window coverings might not be at the front of mind! But regardless, horizontal blinds are much quieter. Thanks to their construction and the way the are held together with cords they stay in place and keep quiet when being operated.
Another win many don’t consider: horizontal blinds don’t go down to the floor! This keeps them away from pets and children you might damage the slats or make them dirtier than they needed to be! And this is great because horizontal blinds can last years without needing replacement. There are less moving parts that wear down and break.
Ready to install your window solutions? Not sure if horizontal or vertical are the right option for your windows? Not sold on either option? Don’t sweat it! Give Budget Blinds of Scottsdale a call today for a free in home consultation and the Linnemeyers will walk you through every step to make sure you are getting the window coverings you need in the styles you want!
