Choosing Quality Blinds and Shutters For Your Home
Unlike curtains, blinds have slats that can be tilted open or closed for lighting and privacy options. Some retailers offer in-home measurement services to ensure that your blinds will fit correctly.
However, many retailers don't accept returns on custom-cut window treatments. To help make your decision, learn more about the pros and cons of different types of blinds and shutters.
Style
Blinds come in a variety of colors and styles. They can add a sleek look to your home, or they can complement a rustic or bohemian aesthetic. Many blinds also come with child safety features, making them a great choice for families.
Shutters offer a more traditional style to your home, but they can be a bit more expensive. However, shutters can be a good investment because they can last longer than shades.
When shopping for new window treatments, take your time and consider all the options available to you. A simple visualizer can help you determine what custom features work best for your needs. For example, you might want to opt for cordless shutters for children’s bedrooms or motorized control for rooms you use frequently.
Durability
The window treatments you choose for your home affect the overall vibe of every room. The right blinds and shutters will add lasting beauty to your home and make it feel like a well-maintained space.
While many individuals consider blinds to be inferior because they have seen them crack or fall down, quality blinds and shutters options will last long if properly cared for. Blinds can be easily wiped clean and have a variety of colour choices.
Shutters are a great choice for areas that experience high levels of moisture and traffic. They can withstand heat, humidity and wear and tear better than most other window coverings. Many shutters also offer upgrades that increase their durability. These include shutter pulls and shutter locks that help protect your investment from little ones or inquisitive pets.
Light control
You'll be able to get a great deal of light into your space when you use blinds with wide slats. These are popular with many homeowners and offer excellent privacy when closed.
Some styles allow you to control how much light comes in with a cord or wand. This is an important feature if you have children in the home, as many blinds come with a cordless design to avoid a strangulation risk.
It's helpful to know what you want from your window treatments before visiting a retailer. Be ready with your measurements so that a salesperson can help you sift through the available options. Some retailers also accept returns, which is handy if your new blinds don't fit correctly. Moreover, some retailers offer a 'fit guarantee', though this may cost extra.
Energy efficiency
Window blinds can offer a great deal of light control and privacy, and they can also be an energy-saving choice. Their slats are often made from materials that aren’t good conductors of heat, and they can be manufactured to close more tightly. This creates a more effective insulation barrier that keeps sunlight out and lowers your home’s energy bill.
Shutters can also be an energy-saving option. Their insulating design reduces solar heat gain and keeps the room cooler in summer. They can also help protect furniture from the sun’s damaging UV rays.
When purchasing your new window treatments, look for a wide selection of styles and custom trims. You should also consider a company’s return policy and warranty. These features can provide peace of mind that your investment is worthwhile.
Maintenance
There are a wide variety of blinds on the market, and retailers like Pottery Barn and Smith & Noble offer a full selection. Many of them will send a professional to take measurements for you, or provide this service as part of a complimentary in-home design consultation.
Blinds are a practical choice for light control, as their slats (called louvres) can be opened or closed to allow different levels of sunlight. They are also easy to keep clean, and don’t retain odours like fabric does.
Shutters are more expensive than other window treatments, but they are durable and long-lasting and can be viewed as an investment in the value of your home. They require special attention to detail during installation so that the shutter frame is kept true and square, avoiding pinched hinges and stress on the wood, which can cause warping.












