When to Use Vertical and Horizontal Blinds

There are two main types of blinds used in homes: vertical blinds and horizontal blinds. Horizontal blinds are the ones you’re probably the most used to — they’re the ones with horizontal slats. Vertical blinds are the ones commonly found over sliding doors. But did you know they have more uses than just that? 

At Budget Blinds of Tempe and Central Phoenix, we’re dedicated to thinking outside of the box so your house doesn’t look like the one next door. We’re not afraid to step outside of the normal and give your home a more modern look. That means using vertical blinds for windows, using wood blinds for french doors, and more. 

So here’s our guide on when you can use vertical and horizontal blinds. 

How Are Vertical Blinds and Horizontal Blinds Similar?

There are two primary ways that vertical blinds and horizontal blinds are similar: light protection and materials. 

Blinds are designed to block out light, no matter how they’re oriented. They’re very effective at doing this too. Both provide near black-out conditions, but they do let light slip through the cracks. They’re good, but not perfect for blocking out light. 

They’re made of similar materials too, such as PVC, and horizontal blinds have a wider variety of different materials. 

When to Use Vertical Blinds and Horizontal Blinds?

No matter what type of blinds you choose, you’ll get all the benefits of high-quality window coverings. However, both types of blinds are better at different things, so choosing the right type for your needs is an essential step. 

When to use Vertical Blinds

We already know that vertical blinds are ideal for sliding doors, but did you know that they’re great for wide windows too? While traditional horizontal blinds can be custom made to fit sliding doors and wide windows, they simply aren’t practical in many instances. Vertical blinds fit better and they’re easily opened and closed while covering the most real estate.  

Vinyl vertical blinds are a great option to add softness to any room and they come in a variety of weaves and colors. They provide years of crisp, wrinkle-free operation with invisible, sewn-in weights. To create an inviting ambience with delicate natural light, consider using sheer vertical blinds that look elegant in any space.

Budget Blinds of Tempe and Central Phoenix offers vertical blinds that are available with a range of operation options such as chain control, wand tilt, right draw, left draw, and split draw for convenience and personalized view control as well. 

Benefits of Vertical Blinds

Vertical blinds are super easy to clean. Thanks to gravity, they don’t accumulate much dust. On top of that, they’re moisture resistant too! They’re commonly made from two materials that are highly resistant to moisture: PVC and faux wood. That means more cleaning products can be used without worrying about colors fading or staining. 

You can either run a duster down them, or use a vacuum brush attachment. It’s super easy to do and takes about 5 minutes. 

Vertical blinds also block more light than horizontal blinds due to their larger slats. 

Vertical Window Blinds Alternatives

If you’re not sold on the idea of installing vertical blinds, we understand. While they are great for doors, you aren’t locked into one option. You can look at cellular shades, sheer vertical blinds, sliding panel track blinds, and woven wood natural blinds. They offer all of the same benefits of privacy, view control, and light control. 

To help you find window covering solutions that match your existing home décor, Budget Blinds of Tempe and Central Phoenix offer these in a wide variety of cell sizes, fabrics, colors, and opacities too!

When to Use Horizontal Blinds

Horizontal blinds don’t really have restrictions on where you can or can’t use them. Doors, windows, non-traditional windows; anywhere. The only exception are windows that are at an angle, such as skylights. 

They’re ideal for tall and narrow windows due to their design and construction.

Benefits of Horizontal Blinds

Horizontal blinds provide more privacy because they move less after you open and close them. They don’t sway — they remain stagnant. Because of this, horizontal blinds are much less likely to expose the interior of your home or business.

They also don’t touch the floor, which helps keep them cleaner and away from kids and pets. 

Horizontal blinds also make much less noise. The operation of vertical blinds can be noisy, especially if their tracks aren’t regularly greased or maintained. Horizontal blinds typically make much less noise.

They can last many years without replacement. Because vertical blinds rely on a track with many moving parts, they can be more likely to wear out and need maintenance or replacing.

If you’re sold on either, give us a call at Budget Blinds of Tempe and Central Phoenix. Our design consultant will be happy to work with you to find the perfect window coverings solution for your home.