The Best Window Coverings for Condos

Whether your home is a house, an apartment, or a condo, you always need one thing: something to cover your windows. When it comes to condos, you’ll want the privacy and sound dampening properties that come with quality window treatments. Additionally, you’ll need access to styles, colors, and types that are approved by the condo association. 

On top of that, if you move, you’re likely not going to take your custom window treatments with you. So what’s the solution? That’s where Budget Blinds of Tempe and Central Phoenix comes in. 

They offer fully custom solutions at an affordable price. With an unbeatable selection of colors, styles, and material, you’ll be sure to find something that both you and your condo association loves. But before you start shopping, you should ask yourself these three things: 

1. How long do you plan on living in the condo
2. What does the condo association allow?
3. What fits your style AND budget?

We have the answer for all of these questions! Keep reading to find out. 

Short Term Living/Vacation Condo

If you don’t plan on living in your condo for more than 5 years, or if you only stay in it for part of the year, then you probably don’t want to invest a ton of window into window coverings. We don’t blame you — it doesn’t make sense to spend a lot of money on something you don’t plan on enjoying for a long time. 

Blinds and shades are the way to go in this scenario. 

Blinds

When it comes to privacy and light control, blinds are built with solid slats that are able to be tilted and controlled to adjust the amount of light coming in. You can also open and close them by pulling on the lift cords to provide an unhindered view. However, even when fully closed, blinds do allow some light in through the slats and through the sides of your window. They’re not perfect for light control, but they are great for privacy. 

In general, blinds are the most affordable options, with shades being a close second. This is dependent on size and material, of course! 

Cleaning and Durability

Blinds shine here because they can be wiped down quickly. Add some furniture polish to a soft cloth, wipe, and you’re good to go. Most can even get away with a quick dusting! 

Blinds are made of harder materials: wood, faux wood, PVC, aluminum. Because of that, they hold up pretty well to wear and tear, often better than shades. This makes them very durable as well. 

Style

Let’s talk style now. Blinds are a classic option. You’d be hard-pressed to find a home without at least one set of blinds. This is fine! If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it, right? In fact, nationwide, more than 60% of all window coverings blinds. 

If you’re looking for something less common, then you may want to skip ahead to read about shades. Or you can invest in faux wood or real wood blinds for that added flair that you won’t find in every other home. 

Insulation

Blinds are not great at insulating your home. They let in plenty of heat, and let out plenty of cold thanks to their slats. So if you’re thinking of keeping your condo cool, shades may be better for you. 

Shades

There are so many kinds of shades. Before we go into it, look at everything Budget Blinds of Tempe and Central Phoenix has to offer so you can find the right style for your condo. They have: 

• Cellular Shades
• Roman Shades
• Roller Shades
• Solar Shades
• Woven Wood Shades
• Bamboo Shades
• Pleated Shades
• Sheer Shades
• Graphic Shades

Privacy and Light Control

When it comes to light control, with shades there’s really only two options – open or closed. Either the shades are up or they’re down, meaning you don’t get a ton of light control here. But you can get more control based on what kind of fabric you select. There are more powerful light filtering fabrics, or more sheer options if you’d prefer for more natural light. The way shades are constructed you can get an option that lets in plenty of natural light and provides total privacy.

Shades can be great or horrible with privacy too. Depending on the fabric, outsiders may be able to see silhouettes or nothing at all. 

Cleaning and Durability

Cleaning shades can be a bit tricky. You’ll need a brush attachment for your vacuum or a good duster to keep the shades from getting dusty and dirty. But any serious stain or grime will require some professional cleaning help.  

They’re also not the most durable. Because they’re typically one long sheet of fabric, they can be susceptible to wear and tear. 

Style

Here’s where shades really shine! Shades have a huge range of versatility. There are as many shade options as there are colors, prints, and fabrics – which is to say a lot! If you want your windows to truly stand out, shades can make the statement you’re looking for (and what your condo association approves of). 

Insulation

Shades are one of the best options for window insulation. Cellular shades in particular are the best insulating window covering because they trap air in their cells, which prevents heat and energy transfer.

Long Term Living

If you want to live in your condo for many years to come, then the thought of investing in more stylish and modern window treatments may seem more appealing. It opens the doors to drapes, shades, shutters — all of which are more expensive, but well worth it when you see the end result. 

Drapes

More so than other types of window treatments, drapes can create a beautiful visual effect and add a sense of style to the entire room. They frame your window and draw out the beauty of the room without even trying. When you order through Budget Blinds of Tempe and Central Phoenix, everything is fully customizable as well. 

They offer amazing insulation, privacy, and light control as well. 

One thing to keep in mind is that drapes are significantly larger than blinds and hang on. outside of windows. That means they can make a room look smaller than it actually is. 

As far as cleaning goes, drapes can be a bit challenging. They can’t be thrown into the wash, and sometimes a quick vacuuming or dusting just doesn’t do it. They will need to be professionally cleaned from time to time to protect them and to prevent mold or mildew growth. 

Shutters

Shutters are more costly, but worth it for the timeless style. 

In some cases, shutters can increase the value of your home. Even if you are not planning on moving anytime soon, it is still something to consider. An investment now could lead to a bigger profit if and when it comes time to sell your home. Plus you get to enjoy their beauty and function before it is time to sell.

Aesthetic Quality

While everyone has their own unique tastes, no one can deny that shutters just look good. They offer a custom look that you just can’t get with blinds or shades. Whether your style is traditional, transitional, or contemporary, there is a shutter-style to match. Additionally, shutters increase curb appeal too, meaning they make your condo look more desirable when it’s time to sell. 

Durability

If you are like most and want low-maintenance fixtures, shutters are for you! They are extremely easy to maintain and clean. All you need is a Swiffer duster and you are good to go! 

When you purchase quality shutters for your home you are investing in something that should last you decades. There are no cords and strings that could potentially tangle and no fabrics that could stain or snag. 

You can find all of this and more at Budget Blinds of Tempe and Central Phoenix. Give us a call to schedule a free design consultation. We’ll come to you to make sure you get exactly what you want at exactly the right price.