The Pros and Cons of Window Blinds
The huge variety of window blinds available means that choosing the right ones for your home can sometimes be overwhelming. Not only do you need to decide on the right colour but also the fabric, design, texture and style as well. Don't let the choice send you running back to your old curtains though - just follow the quick guide below to the pros and cons of some of the most popular types of window blinds.
Aluminium blinds
For many people who remember the decade, aluminium window blinds will forever be associated with the 1980s. Although aluminium blinds may be dated in the style stakes for some people, they are actually a practical choice for offices because they add a professional touch and are easy to clean. They don't add a lot of comfort or cosiness to a room though so they are best saved for the office, home office or commercial premises rather than your lounge for example. They can, however add a clean and fresh look to some contemporary kitchens.
Roller blinds
Roller blinds are the safe choice for many people as there is such as huge variety of styles, designs and fabrics available that these shades can complement any room. Roller blinds do have disadvantages though, for example, they can sometimes make it difficult to open the window they're hung in front of as you will need to roll the blind fully up to access the window. They can also be difficult to clean unless you buy the roller blinds with a wipe clean surface. The main advantage of roller blinds is that they're very affordable and are suitable for every room in the home.
Faux wooden window blinds
Faux wooden window blinds are a good choice for kitchens and bathrooms as they have the look of natural wood without the potential damp and warping which can affect real wood. Faux wooden window blinds are much cheaper than real wood shades and can be easily cleaned with a damp cloth. These types of shades also create a charming and cosy effect in a room and are versatile enough to complement modern and more rustic interiors. Faux wood blinds do tend to be quite heavy though which can make hanging them difficult and when they're raised the stacked slats can sometimes actually obscure the top of the view out of the window.
Vertical window blinds
As with roller shades, the options in colour, design and texture for vertical window blinds are huge which is a great advantage as you can match the looks on offer with your existing interior design. Vertical window blinds are a good option for patio doors as they can be easily pulled to one side so the door can be fully opened with no obstructions. These blinds are also an affordable way to cover a lot of window space so are great for large windows such as those in offices or restaurants. As vertical window blinds hang down it makes it difficult for dust to gather on them so it can minimise the amount of time needed for cleaning. For the home, these shades are often teamed up with curtains as on their own they can often look too formal and contemporary to suit every room. However, they are a great choice for dining rooms as in the right colour they can add a truly elegant and modern touch.
As with all aspects of interior design it's vital to weigh up the pros and cons of each style of window blind and what they will bring to the overall look of your home, office or commercial premises so that you can select the most suitable shades for you.
