Window blinds are everywhere. From offices and commercial spaces to homes, window blinds lend their aesthetic appeal and provide comfort.
Blinds are among the favourite window treatments of homeowners, and for good reasons. Window blinds are versatile, functional, and they look modern and stylish. Moreover, they come in natural and modern looks, making them the perfect addition to any home interior design.
Types of Window Blinds
There is a wide range of window blinds that homeowners can choose from. These window treatments vary in their look, materials, durability, and price.
1. Venetian Blinds
Venetian blinds are probably the most common type of window blinds out there. From offices, commercial spaces, schools, to homes, this type of blinds is almost everywhere.
A series of two-inch-wide horizontal slats characterise these blinds. The slats are stacked and connected by cords or fabric strips.
One of the reasons that make Venetian blinds a favourite for both residential and commercial spaces is that they are inexpensive. They are also available in various materials and colours, so there is one for every taste and preference.
Here are some of the benefits of choosing Venetian blinds as window treatments:
- Venetian blinds allow control on the amount of sunlight to let inside
- They are durable.
- They are easy to clean.
- They provide enough privacy.
- They are easy to install.
Of course, Venetian blinds also have their shortcomings. The cords that hold them together are considered hazardous for pets and young children. They also cannot provide complete and total darkening during the daytime.
2. Roman Blinds
Roman blinds are perfect for minimalist and modern homes because they are functional and visually appealing, lending homes privacy and comfort.
Roman blinds are ideal for small windows and small spaces. They are not bulky, and they don’t look too much for small rooms. They make even the simplest of interiors look classy and upscale.
Roman blinds are made of fabric, and they can come in a wide variety of colours and prints. There is an option for every home interior no matter the preference of the homeowner.
Here are some benefits of installing Roman blinds:
- Roman blinds can completely block sunlight, and they can also be easily adjusted to let sunlight in.
- They are low-maintenance.
- They can match any home interiors.
- They provide excellent privacy.
- They come in many prints, patterns, and colours – the possibilities are endless.
Roman blinds, however, might provide poor privacy if you want to maximise the natural light coming in. Since they are made of fabric, they will also need regular washing and cleaning.
3. Vertical Blinds
Vertical blinds are the ideal cover for sliding patio doors and oversized windows. They come with long, narrow strips that run from the headrail to the floor.
This type of blinds also come in different materials: wood, vinyl, or fabric. The choice will depend on the décor preference and the lifestyle of the homeowner.
Vertical blinds are also a popular choice for office spaces. They are perfect for ceiling to floor glass windows. With the right colour and material, vertical blinds look professional. Besides, they can provide employees with the right amount of natural light and even fresh air.
Here are some of the benefits of vertical blinds:
- Vertical blinds are available at a wide range of prices. Of course, most of the time, pricier variants are more durable.
- They allow easy control of natural light coming in.
- They are easy to clean and maintain.
- They allow natural light and fresh air in without sacrificing privacy.
Vertical blinds are not without cons. Vertical blinds can be noisy. The vertical slats tend to clash with each other whenever the wind blows. They are also harder to repair whenever one of the slats become broken. They also provide poor window views.
4. Roller Blinds
Roller blinds are popular because of their versatility and practicality. They are also inexpensive, making them a home favourite.
Unlike Roman blinds, roller blinds can only be fitted indoors. They help control the amount of natural light coming whilst also adding to the beauty of a room.
Here are some of the advantages of installing roller blinds:
- Roller blinds are easy to operate. They can either be chain-driven or motorised.
- They are durable.
- They come in a wide range of options and can therefore blend with any interior and look.
- They provide excellent privacy.
- They help regulate room temperatures.
5. Plantation Shutters
The Rolls-Royce of window treatments – plantation shutters – are some of the best window treatments that any home can have. While curtains and blinds are more common, plantation shutters can instantly elevate the look of any home.
Plantation shutters look good with any home theme. They can blend well with modern homes, country-style homes, as well as classic Victorian abodes.
DIY plantation shutters are designed and manufactured specifically for the windows where they will be attached. The perfect fit provides homes with excellent security, privacy, and comfort.
Here are some benefits of installing plantation shutters:
- Plantation shutters provide another layer of security.
- They provide excellent ventilation.
- They are easy to clean.
- They have a classic appeal that instantly elevates the look of any room.
- They are durable, weather-resistant, and can last for a long time.
Note that the installation and removal of plantation shutters require the services of professionals. They also require regular maintenance to maintain their best condition.
How to Choose the Right Type of Window Blinds
Choosing the right type of window blinds depends on several factors. The window blinds that work for one house may not work for another. The needs of one household will also vary from another household. All of these and other things will come together to choose the perfect window blinds for the property.
The size of the window
Homeowners should first assess the amount of space that they have. Some types of window blinds can overwhelm a window and a room. Smaller windows, for instance, would greatly benefit from Roman blinds and roller blinds, while large windows would look great with vertical blinds and plantation shutters. It is also crucial to have the measurements of the windows to get a perfect fit.
The room
The room where the window blinds will be installed will definitely matter. While homeowners may wish for more natural light and fresh air for the living room and the kitchens, they may want more privacy and lesser light inside the bedroom or the bathroom.
The home’s interior
Of course, the choice of window treatment can affect the overall feel of the home’s interiors. The window blinds must complement the theme of the interior so that they don’t clash. If the house has a natural and woody appeal, blinds made from natural materials are the best choice.
The budget
Some window blinds are more expensive than others. Therefore, it is vital for homeowners to first decide on a budget and how much they are willing to spend for their window treatment.
Of course, some window treatments can also help save on energy usage, that is worth checking on window treatments that provide outstanding insulation for more energy savings.
A Final Word
It is easy to get lost and overwhelmed when choosing the right type of window blinds. With so many options in the market, it would be helpful to have an idea of how you would like your house to look and feel. This will guide you when you shop for window blinds options so you don’t end up getting blinds that you will end up keeping in your garage.
