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Selecting Window Blinds



Windows not only serve very practical functions by letting in air and light to living and working spaces, but they can provide very important aesthetic functions as well. Lighting and a view to the outside world are very important to the human condition, but there are times when you want to be able to modulate the amount of light and privacy afforded from your windows. One of the best methods for providing an amount of control is using the tried and true window blinds. Blinds refer to window coverings that can be adjusted to allow less or more light and privacy. Typically, they are made from slats of stiff material treaded together with string or cord. There are a number of basic blinds that you would want to become familiar with in order to give yourself the best chances for picking just the right type of window blind for your needs and wants.

Types of Blinds

First, it is worth noting that blind materials vary as much as blind types. Wood, aluminum, and vinyl or plastic are typical choices for blinds.
  • Wood blinds offer a classic and warm feel, but can become expensive and require more upkeep than other types of blinds. They are also susceptible to warping when exposed to moist conditions or drastic temperature changes over a long period of time.
  • Vinyl and other plastics are economic choices that require little upkeep. They may not always provide the required amount of panache, but if this bothers you, choose a plastic blind that is fashioned to look like wood.
  • Metal blinds are less popular in terms of availability and price. They are often reserved for commercial applications, but in the right space, copper colored blinds would look great.
  • Mini blinds are very inexpensive, but they typically also look inexpensive. They are usually a half-inch in depth and can be difficult to clean, but are relatively easy to install.
  • Larger, natural wood blinds can be more dramatic but they also collect dings and scratches fairly easy, and are more expensive. Vertices blinds offer a whole different approach. Their free flowing bottoms can result in surprise gaps in your privacy if you have pets that like to peek outside.

Privacy

Some considerations to remember when selecting window coverings and window treatments include the amount of light that will seep in around your blinds. Most blinds do a fairly good job of shutting out the bulk of daylight, but there will be enough seepage to spoil a nap if that is what you have in mind. If you want to shut out light completely, you should consider using draperies, perhaps in combination with blinds.

By Chris Welsh