Consider White Venetian Blinds

Decorating your home for whatever theme you have in mind can be a bit overwhelming at times. Whether you are looking at paint chips, furniture styles or window coverings there are so many styles and colors to choose from even when you narrow your choices down to a theme that fits your own personal decor. An effective simple way to decorate and control the light in each room is with window coverings. Venetian blinds are quite popular today and with good reason. Let us look at some of the features, cleaning and buying tips that you might keep in mind when considering Venetian blinds.

White Venetian blinds are an excellent example of using an inexpensive, functional and creative material to cover windows. Using a white Venetian blind in any room leaves you open to decorating with any other colors or contemporary styles that you may choose. Using one consistent color in blinds through out your home allows you to change out whatever furniture, lamps or shelving that needs replacing easily. As styles change, you will not have to replace blinds every time you make a new purchase.

Blinds are constructed of slats that are mounted parallel to a window allowing varying amounts of lights to shine through. When turned flat they are ideal for blocking light just as effectively as allowing it to pass through. The slats are controlled through the use of a string to lower or raise the slats.

The use of a metal or plastic wand controls the movement of all the slats simultaneously shutting or closing all of them. Blinds come in varying widths and can be flat or curved. Choices of materials include wood, plastic, metal or any color that you wish to use.

You can select automatic or motor controls rather than manually operating the blinds yourself. With this equipment, you have option of choosing to close and or open slats in the blind based on lighting requirements needed at the time. Some even come with highly sensitive sensor controls that will automatically adjust the slats for a balanced combination of light based on the direction of the sun.

white venetian blindsThese types of blinds are easily cleaned, and they will last for years if well cared for. Once a week or so cleaning with a damp cloth removes dust and grease keeping them in good condition. If there should be a build up of grease after a period of time, you can remove the slats and wash them in a general cleaner. Often just running a feather duster over the slats is all the maintenance they require.

Sizes and construction types will vary the prices but here are a few examples of what you might find in the market places. Wooden coverings run $20 to $160, aluminum in the neighborhood of $20 and vinyl from $25 to $90.

Many people often choose wooden Venetian blinds over other materials because of their long lasting qualities and the special look and feel of wood. If you like the natural wood look then there are many colors and styles to choose from. Beautiful wood blinds can be purchased in mahogany, oak, ash or cedar. They can be left natural or sealed with a long lasting stain and or finish.

Some wood blinds provide additional insulation to windows because they are thicker in design. Insulating window coverings are great for keeping the heat out during hot months or adding warmth to a room with retained heat from sun exposure during the colder months.

Whether you choose natural wood, plastic, metal or white wood Venetian blinds, you are sure to be pleased with how they regulate light and heat into a room in addition to their decorative qualities.

Choosing Sun Blinds for Homes and Cars

Sun blinds are integral accessories in homes as well as in cars. These shades do not only provide added decorations to rooms and vehicles, they provide great functionality as well. With them, people can enjoy staying in rooms or in cars even during extremely hot weather.

Sun shade blinds or sun window shades are used primarily to block the intense rays of sunlight from entering through windows. Literally, they are utilized as protective shields against the damaging effects of the glaring sunlight. Apart from this, they are also used to provide people a certain level of privacy. They block people’s view on the inside of rooms or vehicles.

There is a wide variety of sun shade blinds available in the market. Some types are best suited for use in bedrooms, kitchens, dining rooms, living rooms, and any part of the house. Many are also created specifically to be placed in cars and vehicles.

Because of the large variety of sun shades available in the market, some people may find it hard to determine which one they should be buying. If you are having difficulty deciding on what type of sun blind to purchase, you may want to consider some things first to narrow down your choices.

The first thing that you may want to consider when planning to purchase a sun blind is the area where it is supposed to be placed. Will it be placed on a bedroom, dining room, kitchen, or any other parts of the house? Will it be used to block the sun’s rays on vehicle windows? Determining where this accessory needs to be placed can greatly help you decide what type of blind you will have to buy.

The next thing you need to consider is the type of material that they are made from. Car sun blinds and even those used in homes can be made from a wide assortment of materials, including nylon mesh, synthetic fibers, fabric, vinyl, and even wood. Depending on the material where they are made from, each type may lend a different kind of advantage or disadvantage to the people using them. There are varieties that may block light completely and provide optimum privacy while there are also sun blind types that may provide only slight privacy and which may allow a little amount of light to pass through.

Sun window shades come in a huge variety of designs, so you may also have to consider which design and style will best fit the existing decorations of the home or car. Moreover, sun shades can come in a large assortment of colors. The extensive choices in variety can help find just the perfect sun window shade that will fit your needs.

Still another thing to consider when buying a sun shade is the price. Each type of sun shade may differ largely in terms of price, depending on the materials and their makes.

There are many stores that are selling blinds and some of them can be found online. If you are not yet certain as to what type of sun window blind to get, you can easily find information on each type on the Internet. You can also compare prices and find out which one will really fit your needs.

If you are looking specifically for a car sun blind, you may want to make a visit to the nearest car dealer. Often, car dealers provide this accesory. If the car dealer can’t help, you can always turn to online stores and have the blind fitted into the desired area in your car.

Choosing sun blinds will never become very challenging if you know your goal in purchasing these accessories.

Styles of Caravan Blinds

There are different kinds of caravan window blinds and what kind you decide to install in your caravan will likely depend on your tastes, your budget, and what particular style you need. There are caravan roller blinds and caravan cassette blinds and both types have their advantages and disadvantages.

There are many different brand names of roller blinds but one company in particular that makes some very nice ones is Seitz. They also make caravan windows and a host of other related items as well. Their roller blinds are high quality, are sand colored and they can have aluminum coating as well. They are made to attach to the side of the camper if you want them to stay closed and then you simply give them a tug to open them.

Remiflair is another brand that makes nice roller blinds for caravans and motor homes. These are made in three different colors, which give a bit more variety of choice. Remiflair also makes good quality regular blinds for caravans as well.

One other kind of blind to consider for your motor home is caravan cassette blinds. There are a number of companies that make them in different colors, such as Seitz, Combi, and Rastrollo, to name a few. The prices for these kinds of blinds vary, depending on the brand name that you choose.

Since many companies make different styles of caravan and motor home blinds, it is not too hard to find something that is within your budget, suits your tastes and the pre-existing decor of the caravan. One thing that is very important when buying caravan blinds of any kind is to measure the windows that you are buying the blinds for. It is important to get them in the exact right size if you want them look nice and be effective in blocking out the light in the early morning hours. Measuring the caravan windows is especially important if you are having your blinds custom made as opposed to buying them pre-made, as you will quite likely not be able to get a refund if you give the manufacturer the wrong window sizes.

While a number of shops do sell roller blinds, along with other camping goods, you can also consider buying your caravan or motor home blinds from an online retailer. There are a good number of companies that sell roller blinds and cassette blinds online. The advantage to this is that the shops in your area may have only a limited selection; the selection online is limitless and furthermore, you can compare prices at the click of a mouse. The disadvantages to ordering blinds online are that you do not get to see the blinds before you buy them; you only have a photo of them to go by. Also, many online retailers will not pay for the shipping, that is something you will have to shell out for and it may come out to quite a bit, depending on where the company is located and where you live. Yet another important thing to remember when you are shopping for blinds for your caravan is to check the warranty of whatever blinds you buy. Be sure to ask the shop or online retailer what kind of warranty is offered for the particular brand of blinds you are considering.

If you have a very limited budget, it is possible to buy either kind of blinds second hand, off a site such as eBay or other sites on the Internet that sell caravan blinds. In fact, if you already own caravan blinds and only a part of them is broken, you can buy replacement parts without having to buy a whole new one.

Why Choose A Wooden Blind Over Other Materials?

Wooden blinds are great window treatments that look good in almost any type of décor they are used in. The blinds are available in different slat lengths such as 2 inch or 1 inch slats. They are the perfect type of accessory item for windows in a porch area. Because the wood is a natural looking product, they fit well in areas designed to bring the outdoors inside. You can use them to match with wood furniture items you have on an enclosed porch area such as a couch, chairs and table.

The wooden venetian blinds come in assorted stain colors. This is helpful when choosing items to match the area they will be used in. You could choose a light oak or pine look or a darker cherry or mahogany. The rich mahogany grain would add a distinctive touch to a den or office area. They also would work well in a room that is used as a library. The blinds would enhance the feel of other wood and leather items that might be used in the room. They are designed to provide optimum light filtration as well as being attractive.

Wooden window blinds can also be painted in any color you want so they can be used in any general living space. You can place then in a bedroom or bathroom to create a nice effect in combination with curtains or draperies. The easy drawstring allows you to choose how much light is actually coming into the room without needing to raise the whole blind. This is a nice option for a nursery or small child’s room where the little one may need to nap during the day. The units are easily controlled effortlessly and quietly so you will not disturb a slumbering child.

When used in a bathroom setting the units provide an element of color while also filtering the light. You may not want to use a full set of curtains in a bath area so the styles of blinds works well for these rooms. They are also easy to maintain by wiping clean with a damp cloth from time to time. Most of the wood styles are treated with a finish so they will not absorb moisture or fade due to sun exposure. The slats are designed to overlap each other, which creates the maximum light filtering effect.

Browse Our Selection Of Wooden Blinds

You might be able to purchase cheap wooden blinds by looking for clearance items at a window treatment retailer. Major department stores also have many sale and clearance items during the change of the seasons. A department store has limited room for stocking items, so when they get new things they need to make space in the department to place them. They do this by putting the older or discontinued items on sale. This is a good place to look for lesser expensive blinds for your home. You might be limited in the size selection so be sure you check on the length and width of any item you find.

If you own a modern style living room, you could use the white wooden blinds as the window covering. White is a good clean color that works well with many of today’s contemporary rooms. You can use them as standalone coverings for your windows or in combination with some panels or drapes. The styles of blinds that are constructed of wood can also be custom designed. This is beneficial if you have an odd size window are you would like to use the covering for. By choosing the right style, size and color of blind, you can create an amazing look to any room.

The Benefits Of Blinds And Shades

If you do not want to replace your old curtains, or have moved into a new house than needs decorated, why not opt for blinds and shades for your windows? They can give your home a more contemporary look and they can be more hygienic and easier to clean than curtains.

Blinds and shades give you greater light control than curtains, as you can work them to let as much or as little light into the room as you desire. You can also raise them to the level you want to specify how much privacy you want at any given time. Whether made from wood, metal or fabric, all styles of blinds offer many advantages.

There are so many styles to choose from that you will be spoilt for choice, whatever your personal style and budget restraints.

In order to allow maximum light into your home, lightweight vinyl blinds are a great option. They are easy to care for, requiring very little maintenance. A quick wipe down with a damp cloth should keep them clean. Vinyl blinds can be made in a range of sizes, in horizontal or vertical styles, and there is an endless array of color and pattern choices. They are particularly suitable for sliding doors and larger than average windows.

Window blinds and shades made of wood are elegant and sophisticated and with the development of new coatings, they can be easily cleaned. Gone are the days when wooden blinds gradually sagged in the middle; modern versions are far more lightweight. Again, there is a huge range of styles and colors; some wooden blinds are even patterned. Faux wood is also available, which often looks just like the really thing but is a cheaper option. Bamboo blinds and shades are classic yet inexpensive; they can give your home a warmth and coziness, and are available in several finishes and trims.

blinds and shadesIf you are on a tight budget, discount blinds and shades are widely available, both at your local blind store or online. Home furnishings are decoration is a competitive market, and many companies offer huge discounts and special offers all year round. If you have windows of standard sizes and no specific requirements to meet, you can get some great bargains on ready-made blinds.

Browse Our Selection Of Blinds And Shades

If on the other hand you can afford to splash out on dressing the windows of your dreams, or your windows are not of standard size, all blind companies offer a service for custom made blinds and shades. They will look at the dimensions and shape of your windows and take careful measurements, and then ask you to choose your style and fabric. Custom-made window treatments fit better and work exactly to suit the style of your window. If you can’t decide what shades to go for, most companies offer a consultancy service, where an employee will visit your home and advise you on what treatments are appropriate. This can be a great way to get new ideas that you may not have considered yourself. If you have a few ideas but are struggling to reach a decision, ask the manufacturer to send you some samples so that you can see and feel the materials and quality yourself within the setting of your home. You might find that a style or material you liked does not actually suit the decor of the room.

Therefore, for a great way to change the appearance of a room, window blinds and shades are a reasonably priced, quick and simple addition. Replacing your old heavy curtains with beautiful new blinds will give your home an instant facelift!

About the Vertical Blind

When you begin to think about window treatments, you may want to consider vertical blinds. This type of blind can give you that design flare to enhance the overall beauty of your window and room. Vertical blinds can give the illusion that a room is larger than what it really is. It is also great way to diffuse some of that sunlight that enters your room. There are many different kinds and styles of vertical blinds and you can surely find those that will add style and elegance to any room of your home.

For many years, vertical blinds were often used to cover that sliding glass door that led to your patio or deck. In allow for easy opening as well as being able to keep it off to the side as you came in and out of the door. They were often made of plastic and were very easy to clean and were very durable. We have taken this design style and have created many new types that can fit any window size. No longer thought of as a generic substitute for a window treatment, vertical blinds have become a very popular choice for those looking for a new window treatment.

Vertical blinds allow us to be able to control the amount of light that enters the room. They are individual vanes or slats that hang from a rail system at the top of the window or sliding glass door. The track system allows you to hang each individual slat and gives you the control of being able to adjust the amount of light that you desire. You can of course always open them all the way to one side to let all the sun stream in. Because of their versatility as well as how easy it is to take care of them, we find this an economical way of dressing up our windows.

Browse Our Selection Of Vertical Blinds

The track for the vertical blind normally has a decorative header that will cover up the track system. They will also include a matching control rod for you to increase and decrease the amount of light. There are several different styles of vertical window blinds that you can choose from. Fabric vertical blinds come in a variety of colors and patterns. They can have intricate shapes and floral designs and create an elegant appearance. You can also get PVC vertical blinds as well. These are cheap vertical blinds and they give the appearance of being made of fabric. They can have textured designs and patterns. Because they are made of plastic, they are very easy to keep clean, as well as being a much more economical choice. You can also purchase a smooth PVC vertical blind in many colors as well.

One of the most stunning styles of vertical blinds are those constructed of wood. You can often find these in several different grain styles that can match the furniture as well as the flooring in the room. These are probably one of the more expensive choices. The beauty of wood can add a whole new dimension to the decor of your home. You can find these in Pine, Oak, mahogany and cherry wood. There are those too that are available in white, ivory and other colors. You can also find vertical blinds that use a sheer for its design. This will allow your room to experience the softness as it uses the outside light.

For the adventurous, you can even get vertical blinds that have murals on them. You can have some your favorite characters printed right onto the slats. When the blinds are closed, you can view your favorite cartoon characters, sports themes and other graphics. These work really well for children’s rooms and your den.

You can find many styles of vertical blinds at a variety of websites. As long as you have the correct dimensions for the window that you wish to use them, it is a simple process to be able to order them. You can even get the models that incorporate the motorized controls, and even have a remote control for easier operation. No matter what your budget is or the size your window, you will most certainly be able to find the vertical blind style to meet your needs.

Temporary Window Blinds: An Affordable Solution

So you’ve just moved home. You’ve made a start on unpacking, but you’ve got a long way to go, and the place still looks bare. Not having any blinds on the windows isn’t helping your new home look attractive either. This is where temporary window blinds come in.

If you’ve never heard of temporary blinds before, let me give you a quick over-view. They are usually made of paper, and are usually cut to a pre-set size. When you take them out of the box, you hardly need to do anything to them to turn them into proper paper blinds – just measure the size of your window, and cut the paper to the desired size. Once you’ve done this, you peel the backing from the sticky strip that’s fixed to the top rear of the blind, and stick your new paper blind to your window frame.

51RVldxeO0L._SL500_AA280_The blinds usually have one of two methods of opening and closing them. Some have a pull cord, much the same as regular blinds, but these tend to be a bit more expensive. Others come with a small clip that you can use to hold your pleated paper blind open or closed at the desired height.

As I hinted above, temporary window blinds are a great option largely because of their cost, which is very low compared to regular blinds. A temporary blind for one window costs in the range of $5, and a box with enough blinds to cover the windows of an average house is likely to cost no more than $50. Compare that with the cost of using regular blinds on every window in your house!

Because of their low cost, they are becoming an increasingly popular option among students, who often move into low quality unfurnished accommodation. To keep away the prying eyes of neighbours and potential thieves, temporary paper blinds provide a practical affordable solution for most.

So where can you buy these blinds? Well, all over the place really, if you know they exist. Most major stores will stock them, including (of course) the ubiquitous Wal-Mart. You can also buy them online, either through mega-retailers like Amazon, or direct from the manufacturers. If time is of the essence (or, to put it another way, you’ve just moved in and need temporary blinds now!) then I’d suggest popping out to a bricks and mortar retail outlet, but if you’ve planned ahead, then buying temporary window blinds online will usually get you the cheapest deals.:

Roll Up, Roll Up – Roll Up Blinds

Sometimes you want to pay a lot of attention to the detail in your house, and other times you want the house itself to be the focal point, without all those embellishments. This is why we have such a wide range when it comes to window coverings. There are many situations where a frilly lace curtain or a brightly colored blind is just what is needed, but if you have a room that stands out on its own as an attractive element, then loading it with too many frills can detract from its overall look. In cases like these, a roll up blind is the perfect solution, as they will protect your room from the elements, while blending in with the rest of your room.

If blending in is what you’re after, then the best material for your blinds will be vinyl. Vinyl is a very versatile material, and there are currently many different levels of protection that are offered by vinyl roll up blinds. If you have a room that would benefit from a filtering of light, but still want to maintain a bright cheery atmosphere, then there are vinyl blinds that will provide this for you. If, however, you need to completely block out the sunlight from your room, there are blackout blinds manufactured using vinyl that do a terrific job of keeping that harsh afternoon light out. One of the great things about vinyl is that it is so easy to clean. Some of the other materials available, particularly wood, can stain really easily, and sometimes the only option is to pull the blind down, sand the wood back and re-stain it, which can be a huge task. Vinyl, on the other hand, will repel most stains with a simple wipe down, and will look great for many years to come. Not only that, but vinyl is a very inexpensive option when compared to other materials.

roll up blindsIf an organic, natural look is what you’re after, then bamboo roll up blinds can be fantastic. Inspired by Asian decor, bamboo has become an extremely popular choice, especially among home owners that enjoy the outdoors and want to bring some of that natural ambiance inside. The great thing about bamboo is that it is the most environmentally friendly material that you can use on your windows. If you care for your planet, and like the thought of helping out in little ways wherever you can, then you can’t go past bamboo. The reason this material is so eco friendly lies predominately in its fast growth. Bamboo is one of the fastest growing plants in the world, and this means that farmers can harvest the material and regrow it in the minimum amount of time, leaving our old growth forests where they belong, while providing home owners with a viable alternative. Bamboo blinds can be purchased in a woven fashion, as matchstick blinds, or as slats, so if this material appeals to you, you are bound to find something that suits your house.

Browse Our Selection Of Roll Up Blinds

If you have your heart set on wood, don’t despair, there are woods out there that are considered environmentally friendly as well, however you will be paying more for a wood finish than you would for the aforementioned bamboo or vinyl. Basswood is largely regarded as the best wood for outdoor roll up blinds, as they are a hardwood and will withstand both moist and dry conditions, with a lot less warping and cracking than other woods. If the blinds have been properly treated, they will last for many years in your home. Although it is a hardwood, it is also surprisingly lightweight, so you can be assured that rolling up your wooden blinds will not be a chore. Wood is undoubtedly the most attractive material out there, and will add a charm to any house it is used in, whether contemporary or traditional.

When purchasing your rolling window blinds, you will notice that there are two options available. The tube that the blind rolls around can either face out, so that the material rolls up behind it, or towards the window, with the blind hanging down in front of it. There are not a lot of differences between these two choices, but you will have to keep in mind that if you decide to have your roller facing out to the window, there will be a gap that lets in some light on either side of the blind. If light is an issue in your room, then you will probably be best off having an inward facing roller. For optimal blockage of light, you may want to consider buying a kit that comes with tracks for the side of your window frame. These tracks are fairly easy to install, as long as you have your measurements right before purchasing.

Aluminum Blinds – Subtle Yet Strong

Most people, when presented with alumnimu blinds, think that they are used exclusively for retails shops and businesses. The thought of a metal based window treatment in a residential setting doesn’t sit right, as people tend to equate aluminum to a more industrial setting. This is not the case, however. If you are in the market for new blinds, then I would urge you to look into aluminum as a viable option for your home. Not only are they specifically designed for the home, but in many cases they can be even more attractive than vinyl, and they are definitely more long lasting than wood. Aluminum is not a new material by any stretch of the imagination, it has been used as a commercial material for over 100 years, and is well loved for it’s durability and longevity. Out of all the thousands of elements that make up the earths surface, aluminum is the third most abundant, behind oxygen and silicon. It is well known for it’s ability to withstand the corrosive characteristics of other metals.

Because aluminum is so abundant, it is a fairly cheap material, which is another reason that it is so popular in the manufacturing of household items such as blinds. An aluminum blind will cost you a little bit more than a vinyl blind, but a whole lot less than wood. As a middle of the road option, it is the perfect solution. Aluminum blinds are extremely easy to install, their strong rigid structure makes putting them up a breeze, and you should have no trouble saving some bucks on installation by doing it yourself.

aluminum blindsAluminum is a great option if you are after something that is going to block out the sun. There is a common misconception that metal blinds will not do as good a job of insulating your home, but if the aluminum has been treated properly, you will have no trouble keeping your home both cool in summer and warm in winter. Your blinds will do a great job of helping you cut your electricity or gas bill.

Browse Our Selection Of Aluminum Blinds

When it comes to strength, aluminum just can’t be beat. Vinyl is pretty good at withstanding a beating, but it’s nowhere near as string as aluminum. Most manufacturers of these blinds will spring temper their blinds, which will help them to stay in shape for many years to come. Because of their great durability, aluminum window blinds are a popular choice amongst people that live in areas that suffer from bad storms and hurricanes. Their strength also helps to deter against the more human threats of people trying to break in. Usually, a would be theif will move on to another target if they see that your house has aluminum blinds installed.

As I mentioned poreviously, just because the blinds are made of metal, doesn’t mean that they have to look metallic. In fact, in most cases you would have to physically go up and touch the blind in order to determine whether it was aluminum or not. There are literally hundreds of different finishes that these blinds can come in, and its really just a matter of browing through online catalogues to find the shade and color that suits your home. If you are unsure, many online blind stores will offer the ability to order swatches for them, free of charge. This will allow you to put the color up against the wall and see how it looks before spending a heap of money. If you really like the wood, you can also get aluminum blinds that are painted to look like wood, and the technology used to do this does such a good job that you will have trouble telling the difference. When buying your blinds, make sure that the paint that has been used is lead free, and preferrably anti static. According to Hunter Douglas aluminum blinds with anti static protection will not only protect you aginst dust, but have anti stain and anti scratch properties as well, ensuring the longevity of your blind.

As far as styles are concerned, the most popular are mini blinds and alumnium vertical blinds. Minis are usually recommended for smaller windows, and have a thinner slat size, while the slats on verticals are much larger and travel from the top of your window down. Verticals are generally recommended for larger windows and sliding glass doors.

Bay Window Treatments – Give Your Bay Window A Treat

One of the most drastic ways that you can change a room is to add a bay window to it. The transformation that occurs in a room that has had a bay window installed is incredible. This is especially true if the room is boxed in and doesn’t see a lot of light. I have seen room go from being literally a box, to a wide open expense with the addition of a bay window, and although it is a fairly expensive operation, it is almost as good as redoing the whole room. For those that haven’t had any exposure to this wonderful style of window, a bay window is a special design that actually juts out from your wall, creating a curved opening that extends outside your house. Usually these windows are separated into three or more sections, each section covered in glass to allow ample light to come three. The end result is a three dimensional masterpiece that creates a feeling of brightness and openness in even the most dull room.

Bay windows are by far the most popular in the kitchen. I think the reason for this is that people prefer for their kitchen to be cheery and bright, open and inviting. When you first get up in the morning, the kitchen is where you get prepared for the day ahead. It’s the place were the family greet each other good morning, and if you can create an inviting friendly atmosphere, then you are going to start your day off in a much better mood. A bay window in your kitchen will really help you to create this effect. Of course, the use of bay windows is not only limited to the kitchen. bay window treatmentsMany people have bay windows installed in their living rooms as well. The added benefit of having a bay window in a living room or bedroom is that you can have more access to it, and install it closer to the floor of the house. The benefit of this is that you can then have a small sofa installed into the actual bay window, making a romantic nook for you to sit in and watch the world outside. If you make a sofa built for two, then you and your partner can sit by your bay window on those rainy days and enjoy each others company. What could possibly be more romantic than that?

Browse Our Selection Of Bay Window Treatments

There are a few different styles to choose from when it comes to window treatments for bay windows. The main decision you need to make is whether you prefer the look of a curtain, or the functionality afforded by blinds. Either will look great in a bay window, but both have their good sides and bad sides. While a sheer curtain can look fantastic in this kind of window, it doesn’t allow you much privacy. Of course, most people prefer their bay windows to be open as much as possible, but there are times when you need to shut out the neighbours or passers by, and sheer curtains are not going to do much in this case. An alternative is to still have your sheer curtains up, but install a second layer of curtain that is used for complete privacy. This setup can look great in a bay window if you use some decorative tiebacks for your main curtain. This way, you get the best of both worlds. Another way that you can enhance this style of bay window treatment is to add a valance or cornice to further accentuate the lines of the window.

Although curtains are great, blinds for bay windows are much more popular, and with good reason. The best thing about using blinds is that it gives you a lot more control. You are able to choose which windows should be exposed, and which should be covered, and this can be extremely important during summer when the sun is shining through one side of your window and not the other. The most popular styles of blinds are romans, venetians, rollers and pleated. In my opinion, pleated blinds are the best type of bay window treatment, as their horizontal lines really add another dimension to the already linear feel of the window. Pleated blinds are even more versatile than the others, as they can usually be open from the top down, or from the bottom up, allowing you maximum control over the light coming into your home.

As great as it is to talk about and ready about these styles, nothing beats having a look at actual examples. If you are looking for bay window treatment ideas, then my suggestion would be to use Google’s image search to get a good idea of what’s available, and start forming an opinion of what you like and what you don’t. That way, when it comes time to decide, you will have a much better idea of which way to go.

Timber Blinds – Styles and Finishes

Anyone who has timber blinds in there home will tell you that it changes the whole feel of the house; giving it a natural warmth and character that makes you feel comfortable being in. Timber blinds have always been a favorite, and continue to be used in all sorts of different styles of homes, from more modern to older heritage houses. People usually choose timber as the material to cover their windows in based on its looks, but there are plenty of other benefits to this material. There are also a few different ways you can present timber, each one giving it a unique characteristic.

Stained – If it’s the natural look of timber you are after, then stained is definitely the way to go. When you buy stained wooden blinds, you are buying the look of timber in its most natural form. The beauty of timber is that every single slat is unique, it has its own grain patterns, like a fingerprint that sets it apart from all the other slats. This natural grain is able to show through in a stained finish and gives your window a whole lot more character.

Lacquered – If you like the unique aspect mentioned above, but would prefer a smoother finish, then you may want to consider lacquered timber. Adding a lacquer will make the end product a lot more shiny and smooth, and in many types of wood, this glossy finish will help the unique grains of the wood stand out even more.

timber blindsPainted – If it’s the functionality of the wood that you are after, but have a interior decor that wood would not work in, then you can still get wood painted, helping it to blend in more with your home. Painted wood will quite often last longer than stained or lacquered. That is, you won’t need to repaint as often as you would need to relacquer or restain. You can buy blinds that are already painted, or save yourself a bit of money, buy them raw, and paint them yourself. When painting timber blinds and shutters, you need to keep in mind that you are going to need to the right tools to do the job properly. Many people prefer spray paints for blinds, as it can be difficult getting between all those slats with a brush.

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Coated Finishes – For extra protection, regardless of whether you choose stained, lacquered or painted, you are going to want to finish your blinds with a high quality coating. These coatings are specifically designed to repel dust, meaning you don’t have to clean them as often. They also will protect the wood against moisture and the harmful UV rays of the sun.

The three most popular timbers used to make blinds are basswood, cedar and ramin. Basswood is a hardwood, and because of its great strength and durability, is one of the most popular timbers for use in window coverings. It also has a very distinctive look with grains that really stand out on your window. In America, the use of rainforest timbers and wood from old growth forests is no longer legal. Make sure when you buy your blinds that you ask the retailer where the wood was sourced from. You want to be sure that it has come from a renewable resource and is environmentally sustainable.

Any type of blind that is available on the market is available in a timber finish. By far the most popular style is timber venetian blinds, which are perfect for the average sized window, and give you the benefit of controlling the amount of light that comes into your home. The great thing about wooden venetian blinds is that they won’t break the bank, so if you have a lot of windows to cover, this could be a great option for you. Any timber blind and shutter choice also will give you the added benefit of keeping your home cool during summer and warm during winter. Wood is a natural insulator, and although it is a little more expensive than synthetic materials, it will pay for itself over time in savings on your energy bills.

All About The Roman Blind

For many people, the choice of window covering styles is an easy one. The classic look you get from a roman blind cannot be matched by any other style of blind. Roman blinds have continued to be a favourite amongst home owners and interior designers for literally centuries, they have a timeless charm that is sure to last for ages to come.

Roman blinds are generally operated by a cord, and if there’s one warning I would give you about this style of blind, it’s to be careful if you have small children or pets, as there have been many reported accidents relating to the use of cords on peoples blinds. That said, if you take precautions, there is nothing stopping you from enjoying this wonderful style in your own home.

Roman blinds are a pleated style of blind. For those that don’t know what this means, it basically refers to the way the blind gather together when raised. A roman blind has, along its back, a number of horizontal rods. Although these are not seen from the front, they allow the blind to fold up inside itself in a neat and uniform way, and it’s this look that makes them so attractive to many home owners that have traditional style homes. roman blindWhile they give this great wavy effect when pulled up, they lay nice and flat when lowered. This is partly due to a weighted rod at the bottom of the blinds that helps keep them in place.

By far the most common material used in roman blinds is fabric, and there are literally thousands of different types of fabric, shades, colors and patterns that can be used in this style of blind. Not only that, but there are less traditional and more organic materials that can be used in the same style, such as woven wood, or even bamboo roman blinds. If it’s a rustic country look that you are after, this can be a great choice for your home.

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When buying your roman blinds, you are going to find a few choices available, and the one you choice will depend greatly on your budget and your skills. If you are a bit handy around the house, and are interested in saving a bit of money, then you will really benefit from a DIY roman blind kit. These kits come with all the materials and hardware you need to create your very own roman blind. The feeling of accomplishment you will get from doing so will make your blind all that more attractive and valuable.

If you are not interested in finding out how to make roman blinds, there are plenty of places, both online and in your local area, where you can get ready made roman blinds that suit most standard window sizes. If you windows are an odd size and shape, then ready made may not be an option for you. If this is the case, then you may need to look into getting them custom made, which will ultimately cost you a little more, but give you a perfect fitting blind for your window.

If weather is an issue in your area, then you may want to look at going a step further and getting lining for your roman blinds. Many shops offer this style of blinds with the lining already in place, but the lining can also be purchased by itself from most good fabric stores, and is not at all difficult to add to existing blinds. On top of thermal lining, you can also get blackout lining fro those rooms where you need to be able to block out as much light as possible.

A Great Range at Hilarys Blinds

If you live in the UK, then you have no doubt heard of Hilarys Blinds. They are one of the most respected window treatments, having been in business for over 40 years, and continuing to go strong. What you may not know is that Hillarys has a very strong online presence, and is able to offer their products to people all over the world via their own website, and their sister site, web-blinds.com. Here is a look at their most popular products, with an explanation of how each one is unique to Hillarys, and a wonderful choice for any style of home.

Venetians – Hilary Blinds has a large range of venetian blinds available. There are 4 unique slat sizes to choose from; 15mm, 25mm, 35mm and 50mm. Each size is designed to fit a certain type of window, and their website tools can help you decide which slat size is right for your needs. With over 90 colors and shades available, your only problem will be trying to make a decision. They also have venetians made from Aluwood, which is aluminum which has been specially designed to look like a wood grain. Their venetians are an excellent choice for velux or skylight windows, and they are designed to withstand the fading effects of UV rays.

Wooden Venetians – On top of the range of venetians mentioned above, Hillarys also have pure wood options, for those that want to go as natural as possible. They have 8 types of natural wood, as well as 2 painted versions, with different shades for any occasion. hilarys blinds 2They recommend their lighter shades of wood for a contemporary style home, and the darker ones for a more traditional look. Their range of wood venetians come in 3 different widths; 25mm, 35mm and 50mm, and their blinds come equipped with their unique and patented pulley system, which is especially designed to cope with the extra weight of a wood blind.

Verticals – Hilary’s Blinds boasts a whopping 200 fabrics in their vertical blind range, making them one of the most diverse suppliers of verticals on the market. Not only are we talking about plain colors either, there are numerous styles of prints and patterns that are available as well. On top of their fabric verticals, they also offer a PVC range, which are the perfect solution for the bathroom, as they are 100% water resistant and easy to clean. Not that you will have to clean them all that often, because these PVV vertical blinds also come with anti static technology which stops dust from settling on them.

Rollers – Hillarys have the same range of fabrics in their roller blind range as they do in their venetians, meaning a huge amount of choice for you. They have some fabrics that are out of the ordinary; such as suede and leather, and they even have Teflon coated roller blinds, yes that’s the same coating they use on no stick frypans. If you prefer something a little more conspicuous, you shouldn’t have any trouble finding a plain color or a print that matches your needs.

Romans – You can purchase Hillarys range of romans fully lined, giving you a great amount of insulation, or if extreme weather is not an issue for you, you can opt for their cheaper and more lightweight unlined rollers. They even have blackout roman blinds, for those rooms where excess light tends to stream through the windows. Roman blinds are best suited for places like the bedroom or the living room, as they provide a soft relaxed atmosphere. There are around 140 fabrics available in their roman blind range, and both a standard style and a deluxe. The standard style operates using cords, while the deluxe models have a crankshaft for easy operation.

Pleated – Hillary’s Blinds range of pleated blinds come in over 120 different types of fabrics, and are one of the best choices if you are after something that is going to do a good job of insulating your room. Pleated blinds are very versatile, and make a great option for conservatories or other places with odd shaped windows. If you need pleated blinds for the roof, they offer options for those hard to reach places including a crank or a wand.

Woodweave – If it’s a raw natural look you are after, then Hillarys comes to the rescue with their organic range of woodweave blinds. These blinds are similar in functionality to roman blinds; however they are not made of fabric. They are actually made from natural fibres such as grasses, bamboos and jute. This is a great choice if the decor of your house leans more towards the traditional side.

Blinds Shades and Curtains – Revisited

In a previous post – Shades Blinds and Shutters – A Brief Rundown we gave a brief overview of some of the different types of blinds shades and shutters that are available. Soon after that post I received some emails from people that said that I hadn’t included their favorites. As you can imagine, there is such a huge range out there that I was bound to miss a few, so I’m following that post up with this one, and including a few glaring omissions, and some all time favorite styles of mine, and fellow readers.

Roman Blinds – The roman blind is a classic style that is popular amongst people who want a traditional look in their home, while still benefitting from the functionality of a blind. They are basically a length of fabric with dowels attached horizontally at regular intervals. What this does is allow the blind to fold up under itself when it’s raised, while laying flat on your window when it’s down.

Pleated Shades – Pleated shades are a newer style of window covering, very popular in a contemporary setting. Unlike a roman blind, these blinds are raised at regular intervals, creating a corrugated effect. Out of all the blinds & shades available, these blinds are one of the most effective for insulation purposes in your home. When raised they will fold up will neatly along the top of the window, barely noticeable, allowing you an uninterrupted view outside.

blinds shades 2Vertical Blinds – Verticals are used predominately on large windows, and sliding glass doors. They are made up of individual slats that hang vertically down the length of your window or door. Like pleated blinds, they will fold up against one corner of your door, completely out of the way when not needed.

Roll Up Blinds – One of the cheapest styles available, many people discount them thinking that cheap means not so functional. The truth is that these blinds are quite handy in the right setting. They will roll up around a tube at the top, and are raised and lowered using a spring mechanism, meaning no messy cords hanging down the side.

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Sheer Curtains – A beautiful selection for places like your kitchen or as a backing to a larger curtain in your living room. Sheer curtains are translucent, and create a wonderful light diffusion in your home, protecting your furniture from harmful UV rays, while still allowing the room to remain bright and cheery.

Aluminium Blinds – Usually used in patios or sunrooms, blinds made from aluminum make a great privacy shade, as they are completely solid, made up of individual slats of alumimum that neatly fit into each other. Perfect for the outdoor or semi outdoor setting, as they will be able to withstand the harsh elements.

Cafe Curtains – Cafe curtains originated in cafes and restaurants (hence the name), and were designed to give the patrons privacy while still allowing a country charm. Nowadays they are predominant in kitchens, as they lend themselves well to the ambiance of that room, giving it an open and inviting atmosphere.

Blackout Blinds – I don’t know how I missed this style in my last post, as out of all the blinds out there, blackout blinds serve one particular purpose; to keep as much light out of a room as possible. Usually lined with a special blackout material, these blinds are perfect for bedrooms that see lots of light and home cinema setups.

Conservatory Roof Blinds – If you are lucky enough to own a conservatory, then you will know what a multi purpose space they can give you and your family. The only problem is that there are many windows to be covered, and they are quite often in odd places and of odd shapes. Conservatory roof blinds come to the rescue, with the versatility of fitting almost any shaped window you need.

Once again, I’m sure there are more that haven’t been covered, and if I’ve yet again missed some of your favorite blinds and shades, feel free to let me know. I may even make this an ongoing series, with the aim of giving people a brief overview of each style. If you need more information about any of the above, you are sure to find more by using the search function available in the sidebar.

Curtains and Blinds – Which One To Choose?

I’m just as guilty as anyone else of over analysing a problem, tossing all the advantages and disadvantages of things over in my mind until I get so caught up in the whole process that I forget why I was trying to decide in the first place. I’m also guilty of rambling on about curtains and blinds on this website without really giving you any indication as to which solution is best for any given situation. I’d like to try and alleviate that a little, and hopefully make your decision a little easier by laying down some black and white facts about these two choices. You may notice that I haven’t included shutters in this post, and the reason is that shutters differ a little from curtain and blinds. Shutters are an option on their own, and are useful for reasons that other window coverings aren’t.

Let’s start with curtains. Curtains usually consist of one or two lengths of material hung on a rod that sits horizontally over the top of a window, or door. They are almost always made of some sort of material, with the noticeable exception of beaded curtains and bamboo curtains. Their main aim is to give you privacy in your home, by blocking out the view into your house from outside. The added benefit of curtains, indeed the main reason that many people choose this style of window treatment, is their look. The soft flowing material of a curtain can really enhance a room, and adds a character that just can’t be matched by the hard lines of a blind. Because curtains are considered such an aesthetic window covering, they have been embellished throughout the years with all sorts of trimmings and additions. For example, valances, cornices, lace trimmings and tie backs have all become an overall part of the look that makes up a curtain. In the majority of cases, the curtain has become the focal point of the room.

curtains and blinds 1Blinds, on the other hand, are considered to be a whole lot more functional. Although many people do consider the blind to be an attractive window treatment, more people admire them for their functions rather than their looks. One of the main benefits of a blind is it’s ability to control light that comes into your home. A curtain is either open, or it’s closed. It’s either keeping that direct sunlight out of your home, or it’s not. Because many blinds have slats in them, they allow the homeowner to adjust these slats to whatever position gives the best diffusion of light in their room, and they can keep changing it throughout the day, as the sun moves and the light changes. The other big benefit of the blind is that it is a great insulator. Although you can get curtains with thermal lining, they are never going to be as good at keeping the heat (or winter cold) out of your home as a snug fitting honeycomb blind can.

Browse Our Selection Of Curtains and Blinds

So in conclusion, the choice between curtains and blinds really comes down to a choice between aesthetics and functionality, to a certain extent. It also depends on what your personal tastes are. Just because the majority of people prefer the look of curtains, that doesn’t mean that everybody does. If you prefer the look of a particular type of blind, then your choice is going to be a whole lot easier, otherwise you are just going to have to base your choice on variables such as your local climate, the aspect of the window you are covering and your budget. That said, there are bargains to be had with either style. If you look hard enough for cheap curtains and blinds online, you will find them. Many online stores also offer free shipping and money back guarantees on their items, so it’s worth doing a bit of shopping around.

Wood Window Blinds

If you want to add warmth and character to a room in your home, or indeed to multiple rooms in your home, then the best decision you can make is to go with wood window blinds. There is no other material that quite matches the natural character of wood, and there’s a huge range of different styles available. Ever since humans have had windows, they have been covering them with wood, and all these many years later it is still one of them most popular materials out there. Although many will tell you about all the benefits of newer materials such as vinyl, there is something very romantic about the natural aspect of wood.

There are many places that you can get wooden window blinds. If you prefer to walk into an actual shop, then you may need to do a bit of research about what’s available in your local area, but if you are open to the prospect of shopping online, there are some great bargains to be had, and a huge range to choose from. Many people avoid buying large items like blinds online because they think that any savings to be had will be lost in the cost of having the item delivered, but this is not necessarily the case. Many online blind retailers will even offer free shipping if you spend a certain amount of money with them, so it’s well worth at least having a look before deciding.

As far as different styles available in wood, there are many. wood window blindsThe most popular are venetian blinds, which are stunningly attractive and also incredibly functional. Most venetian blinds (some people refer to them as min blinds) have moveable slats on them, which are operated either by a pull cord or a wand, and it’s this moveability that makes them a fantastic option if your top priority is controlling light in your home. A wood window blind with slats that can be rotated will allow you to have control over exactly how much, if any, light you want, as well as giving you complete privacy control as well. On the high end of the price scale, you can take this functionality even one step further by getting motorized blinds, which allow you to control the slats at a press of a button.

Browse Our Selection Of Wood Window Blinds

Wood is not the cheapest of options when it comes to window blinds, and if money is tight it can be difficult to warrant spending that much money on something that can be had a whole lot cheaper using other materials such as vinyl. There are some places that offer discount wood window blinds at times, but you need to be careful that you are not paying for a lesser quality item. If you are sold on the look of wood but having trouble finding the money for it, you may want to consider faux wood window blinds. The technology used to create faux wood has come a long way in recent years, and in some cases can look (and function) every bit as good as the real thing, at a fraction of the price.

If you do decide to go the cheaper option of faux wood, then you are not going to have to worry too much about maintenance, as you can simply give them a wipe down with a damp cloth and they will continue to look great for years to come. If, however, you are able to get real wood, then there is, unfortunately, a little more work involved in their maintenance. For starters, you need to keep moisture away from them as much as possible. Too much moisture will cause your blinds to buckle and warp, and once they are bent out of shape, they cease to be useful as a window covering. You should be cleaning the dust off them regularly with a vacuum cleaner, but you need to make sure that you have the brush attachment on so that the wood doesn’t get scratched. You will also need to take them down and recoat them, with varnish or paint, every year or so, depending on how exposed they are to the sun.

Pleated Blinds – A Contemporary Favorite

If you are unsure of what a pleated blind is, the easiest way to describe it is that it’s a flat piece of material that has been folded horizontally at regular intervals to create a corrugated effect. We have previously discussed the honeycomb blind, with its cellular structure. Well, a honeycombs design is basically made up of two pleated blinds joined together to create the cells. The honeycomb blind is famous for its insulating properties, and while the pleated blind is not as good an insulator, it still does a fairly good job, keeping around 80% of the heat out of your home. If that’s still not enough, you can get pleated blinds that are backed with a special thermal lining especially designed for insulation.

One of the biggest attractions of the pleated blind is its ability to fold up to next to nothing at the top of your window. In fact, when it is opened completely, it is barely noticeable, and allows you an uninterrupted view outside. Some styles even go one step further, with a dual opening action. This means that not only can you fold your blind up to the top of the window, but you can also fold it down to the bottom. You can even just cover the top or bottom half of your window, giving you a huge amount of versatility when it comes to controlling the amount of light that comes into your home.

One of the most popular uses for this style of blind is in conservatories. The reason for this is that they traditionally have odd shaped windows, for example the top of the window is wider than the bottom, or visa versa. pleated blindsFor the conservatory pleated blinds are a godsend, as they can be cut and shaped to just about any shape and size of window you wish to throw at it. The stylish look of a conservatory completely shaded in pleated blinds just cannot be beat. Another thing that many people like to do in their conservatory is to motorize their blinds, and this is easily achieved with the pleated design, as it folds up into itself easily without getting tangled or ruined. Many conservatories have windows that are hard to get to, so having some way of closing these blinds is imperative. If a motorized option is a little on the expensive side, you can also opt for cords, wands or a crank system.

Browse Our Selection Of Pleated Blinds

Pleated blinds can be either translucent, allowing you a slight filtering of the light into your room, or completely solid, blocking out all the light. You can even get blackout pleated blinds for those times when you need to stop any amount of light from entering your room. This is a great option for the home theatre, or just when you need a more private setting in your room.

For some reason, people tend to picture pleated blinds as being plain white or beige. I’m not sure why this is, but I can guarantee you that these blinds come in almost any color you can imagine, even patterned or with prints. It’s worthwhile having a look at all the options there are out there before dismissing this style as too plain. When it comes time to purchase, make sure that you are buying from a reputable retailer, as lesser quality blinds will tend to flatten over time. If possible, try and ensure that the blinds come with some sort of warranty. This shouldn’t be too hard, as most blind companies offer lifetime warranties with their products.

Shades Blinds and Shutters – A Brief Rundown

I would like to give you a brief rundown on some of the more popular styles of shades blinds and shutters that we have discussed so far. Each window treatment has a different use, and gives a different atmosphere in your home. In order to make an informed decision, it is important that you have a little knowledge about the following types of blinds and shades…

Wood Blinds – The most popular style of material for blinds by far, wood adds natural warmth to your home that can’t be achieved by any other type of material. The downside to wood is that it needs regular maintenance to stay in tip top condition.

Faux Wood Blinds – For those that cannot afford wood, but love that natural grainy look, faux wood is probably the next best thing. The two main materials used in the production of faux wood are wood composites and PVC. Faux wood is only a fraction of the price of the real thing.

Shutters – There are two main categories in the world of shutters, based on the width of the slats. The smaller window shutters generally have a slat size of 1 or 1 1/2 inches. Larger slat sizes are often referred to as plantation shutters, and are generally used on the exterior of your home, or on larger windows.

Mini Blinds – One of the most inexpensive styles of blinds that you can get, mini blinds are characterised by their small horizontal slats. There is some confusion between mini blinds and venetian blinds, but the two phrases mean basically the same thing.

shades blindsSliding window Blinds – The most popular choice for vertical blinds are for large sliding doors. They are perfect for this use, as the blinds tuck right away into the unused corer of the room when they are not needed, while giving overall coverage to your door when it gets sunny outside.

Panel Track Blinds – This is a newer style of blind that is increasing in popularity. It consists of larger horizontal lengths of material that fold into each other when not in use. They work similar to the principle of the vertical blind, but also make great room dividers.

Browse Our Selection Of Shades Blinds and Shutters

Cellular Shades – The biggest benefit of cellular shades is their amazing insulation properties. These are a lightweight shade that packs a real punch. Some people refer to them as honeycomb shades, because of the shape of the individual cells. You can get these shades in single, double or triple cell versions; the greater the number of cells, the better its insulating properties.

Woven Wood Shades – The name of these shade blinds is a little misleading, as although there are some that are made of actual wood, the more popular styles use bamboo, jutes and reeds to create the shade. Woven wood shades are a perfect solution in any place that you are trying to create a natural organic feel.

Roman Shades – Roman shades are usually made using fabric, although there are styles created in vinyl and even bamboo. The roman shade is a classic window covering that rolls up to the top of your window in pleats when not in use. Roman blinds are great for smaller windows in the bedroom, giving you complete privacy.

Roller Shades – Out of all the shades available, the roller shade is the most simple in design. Roller shades consist of nothing more than a tube of aluminum, with a length of fabric wrapped around it. When not in use, the fabric is wrapped around the tube at the top of the window via a pulley system.

Sheer Shades – For those times when you want a little bit of privacy but don’t want to block out the world (or the sun) entirely, sheer shades are the way to go. They make an elegant solution for places like the kitchen, and are usually made from very thin and light weight fabrics,

Solar Screens – Similar to roller blinds, but instead of using material solar shades use are usually plastics and synthetics. They work on the principles used in sunglasses, diffusing the light while still allowing you to see out your window. They are particularly popular on large glass doors or windows that look out onto a view.

As you can seem there are a huge variety of window shades and blinds out there, and we have only touched the surface, For more information on any of these individual styles, feel free to browse through the rest of this site.

Blackout Blind – Blinded By the Light

There are a couple of things that a doctor will say over and over to their patients, the most important things to maintain a healthy body. Drink lots of water, eat plenty of vegetables, and get plenty of exercise, and 8 hours sleep a night. All it takes to achieve these things is dedication, however to get a good nights sleep can be difficult in some situations. There are quite a few reasons why you may not be getting a good nights sleep. Some of us can sleep through an earthquake without turning over in bed, while others are woken by the slightest disturbance. For some, it’s noises outside, for others it’s stress, but the most common reason for not sleeping well is the light coming in through your bedroom window.

There are a few different ways that light can come in, but a blackout blind is a solution that will help regardless of the light source. Some people live in a house that is angled in such a way that passing cars will shine their headlights through your window. For others, it’s the full moon or street lights. And the biggest light of all is of course the sun. Some of you may be saying “but I don’t sleep during the day”, and that’s great, but there are plenty who do. For example, shift workers that are out doing their job all night come home around the same time as the sun comes up and starts going about its business. Newborn babies also sleep a lot during the day, and some parents don’t realise that the reason their baby is not sleeping well is because they haven’t provided the right type of atmosphere in the nursery. Others have found real benefit in having a siesta in the middle of the day, just 20 minutes or so is enough to revitalise your body and get you moving again.

blackout blindOne common misconception that many people have when it comes to blackout blinds is that they are black. This is not the case at all; blackout blinds come in a huge array of colors, patterns and styles. Any style that you can get a normal blind in has a blackout equivalent. This means that if you like the look of roman blinds, you can still achieve that classic look, and sleep well at night, by using blackout roman blinds. Other types of blinds that you may want to consider include rollers, cellular and even mini blinds.

Browse Our Selection Of Blackout Blinds

Blackout roller blinds are the cheapest option on the market, mostly because of their simplicity in design. A roller blind is a great choice for families that are on a budget and can’t afford anything too fancy. You can get a blackout roller blind with a track that goes down the side of the window. The blind travels down this track and gives you complete blockage, as no light will seep through the edges as it does when using something like a roman blind.

You have two choices when you are looking at purchasing a blackout solution; online and at a local retailer. My recommendation would be to start online, with a view of perhaps buying local if you can. This way, you get the benefit of being able to see just how much variety is out there. You can bookmark the ones that interest you and compile a list that will give you an idea of prices and styles. Once you have your list, you can take it down to your retailer and show them what you are leaning towards. From there, they can give recommendations based on what you’ve told them, and maybe even order in something if they haven’t got it in stock. Buying from a local retailer is not only helping them, but it’s putting money back into your local community.

Curtain Blinds – There’s No Such Thing

A lot of people talk to me about their curtain blinds, and I must says it’s a little pet peeve of mine. The truth is, there is no such thing as a curtain blind, they are two completely separate things. I can understand where the confusion comes from, in the world of window treatments, there are blinds, shutters, shades, curtains, drapes, awnings, and all sorts of variations as well. I thought I’d take the opportunity to clear this misconception up. Blinds are one thing, curtains are another, and in this article I’ll weigh up all the different pros and cons of each. Hopefully, after reading this, you will be able to make a more informed decision on which one of these two very different window coverings you prefer.

Price - In the price stakes, curtains are a sure winner. Of course, there are certain curtains that will cost you an absolute fortune, such as thick velvets and pure silks, but comparing quality to quality, curtains are a much more inexpensive way to go. Blinds have moving parts that make them more labour intensive to manufacture, and this adds to the cost of them.

Maintenance - Both blinds and curtains are fairly easy to clean, although this largely depends on the material of the blind. A wooden blind with scuff marks or scratches can mean a lot more work, in some cases even needing sanding and recoating of varnish. Vinyl blinds, on the other hand are very easy to clean, only needing a quick wipe down with soapy water in most cases. Curtains are simple, as they can be taken down easily and thrown in the washing machine. Once again, this will depend on the material of the curtain. There are some materials that will need to be hand washed.

curtain blinds 1Variety - Curtains & blinds have a whole lot of variety between them, and it would be hard to pick a clear winner. Blinds come in different slat sizes, different materials, and a wide range of colours and patterns. The same can be said for curtains. You have sheer curtains, beaded curtains, blackout curtains and a whole range more. Suffice it to say that between the two of them, you will be spoilt for choice.

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Versatility - I personally think that blinds are a little more versatile than curtains, at least as far as functionality is concerned. The reason I say this is because blinds with moveable slats allow you to adjust the amount of light that is being filtered into your room, while curtains are either opened or closed. That said, curtains are a lot more easy to swap and change as the mood suits.

Insulation - Unless you are using a thick material such as blackout or velvet, curtains don’t provide you with a whole lot of insulation. Blinds, on the other hand, can do a great job of insulating your home. Particularly of they are made of a thicker material such as wood. If you live in a place that has extreme temperatures, then blinds are definitely the way to go.

curtain blinds 2Aesthetics - Aesthetics is impossible to judge, one man’s trash is another man’s treasure, and all of that. Blinds certainly are a lot more versatile as far as fashion is concerned, and you can’t match the soft flowing curves of an eyelet curtain with blinds. A nice set of plantation blinds, however, can look amazing in the right situation. It really comes down to personal preference.

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Longevity - Blinds win hands down here. Curtains will not last anywhere near as long as blinds, particularly if exposed to harsh sunlight. They will gradullay fade and thin over time, while blinds will stand strong for decades to come.

Installation - Well, of course, curtains are a lot more easy to install than blinds. Not many people will have a professional come in and install their curtains for them, while the majority of blinds out there have been fitted and installed. The only hardware needed for a curtain is the rod and a couple of brackets, and getting that up and running is childs play.

Safety - Safety is a big issue in many households, and curtains blinds and any other type of window covering should be purchased with safety in mind. If you have a small child in the home, then you need to be extra careful of cords dangling down. Curtains, on the other hand, can be a real fire hazard, and many a home has been lost because of a heater being placed too close to a curtain.

As you can see, there are many things that need to be taken into account when deciding between curtains and blinds. I hope I have cleared a few things up for you though, particularly the fact that curtain blinds are not an option for your home.