When you are designing the interior of your house, a main part you have to consider very wisely is windows. Because windows are the focal point of a room. So when you deciding on a window treatment it is best that you have an idea about the window treatment you are choosing. Basically there are 4 main options, Blinds, Shades, Shutters and Curtains. But more than Curtains, Blinds, Shades and Shutters are more popular nowadays. Window treatments are not always easy to choose from. There are a lot of options you can choose from and it can be overwhelming to choose one from a lot. Your options are seemingly endless. Here we have broken down some pros and cons to make your decision easier.
Blinds
Blinds are one of the most popular window treatments and classified as ‘hard’ window coverings. These are made from bamboo, wood, metal, composite, woven grass or vinyl slats, also called louvres. These slats are individually formed together to create the complete individually formed together to create the complete Blind and are usually controlled by a manual pull cord. The least expensive is Horizontal Blinds which comes in aluminum or textured vinyl. Real wood blinds which are made using hardwood are very beautiful and authentic. They are little bit pricey but still economical. Aluminum Blinds comes in ½”, 1”, and 2” slats. Vinyl blinds are available in 2” slats. Faux wood and Composite Blinds can chosen between 2” and 2 ½” slats. Real wood slat options are 1”, 2”, or 2 3/8”. Because blinds are constructed using slats they offer the most variable light control. If you have a tight budget, Blinds are the most affordable choice. And also Blinds are very easy to clean. They can be wiped down in a cinch with furniture polish and a soft cloth or can simply dusted out using a duster.
But blinds will not very much control the outside temperatures. And metal, wood and bamboo blinds can be noisy when open and close. And also the closing mechanism can be damaged if not used correctly. And hanging strings can be not safe if you have children and pets in your home.
Shades.
With shades, your options for customization are nearly endless. Basically, a shade is a soft fabric panel that is attached to a rod or frame at the upper edge and are sized to fit within the window frame, unlike drapes and curtains that hang below the still. Window Shades are classified as ‘Soft’ window coverings. Since they are made of fabric, there is a much wider range of colours and patterns to choose from. Different construction materials vary the privacy level for different type of shades. Shades are drawn up and down by cords or rolled up with a spring device. To raise the shade you can use a cord, roller or lifting mechanism. When the shade is raised it either rolls or bunches around a rod depending on the shade style you choose. Roller shades, Roman shades, and Honeycomb shades are the most popular among Orange Beach Blinds clients. And because shade are made from soft materials there will be no noise when open or close. Also window shades can be easily cleaned with a vacuum brush or a gentle spot – clean. But of you have tough stains or excessive dirt it may need to be handled by a professional.
But shades are not suitable for rooms that have high humidity and heat because the moisture could absorb into the material and cause significant issues like mold and can easily be stained. And also soft materials of these shades can be easily rip and are not well suited for rough use.
Shutters.
Shutters are one of the most stable window treatment available and can provide optimum protection against the damage UV rays can cause to your furniture and upholstery. There are different materials that are used in these shutters like wood, plastic, aluminium and faux wood but the design is basically the same. Slats that are mounted into strong frame that is then installed on the window. But you have tons of options to choose from like louver size, hinging, colour, tilt-rod, the number of panels and so on. Due to the fact that they cannot be purchased off the shelf like some other window treatments, they offer a truly custom look. Whether your style is traditional, transitional or contemporary, there is a shutter style to match. And shutters have a curb appeal, so they look beautiful from the street. Also shutters are the only window treatment that actually increase the purchase value of your home. Window shades are considered as timeless and never go out of style. So even if you are not planning to sell your property in near future, installing shutters will be an investment now could lead to a bigger profit if and when it comes to sell your home. And shutters typically have double the life of any other window treatment. Also shutters are a great option to for large and odd shaped windows as well as rake windows, arched windows, circles, ovals, half round windows, quarter round windows, track system for patio doors and French doors.
But if you are on a tight budget you have to reconsider installing shutter. Basically they are on 4 times the cost of a blind in the same size window. And if you are in a hurry to install your window treatments, shutters will do not the job. Shutters can take up to 6 – 8 weeks to arrive.
In Orange Beach Blinds we have a professional team who are well experienced in all window treatments. Since this family business has started back in 1995 we have been the number 1 in window treatment industry. That is because the trust our clients have in us. We guarantee the materials we use to make window treatments that you request are best in quantity as well as the final product we provide. So don’t wait another day. Just contact us now on 251- 597- 4505 or stop by our showroom in your town.
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