Choosing the Right Blinds for Your Home

The window treatments you choose for your home are very important; these can enhance the space and add a decorative element while also controlling sunlight, heat and cold that would otherwise get into the room. Blinds are a good choice for many spaces, as they're small and unobtrusive, so they won't get in the way of foot traffic or furniture or compete with those furniture pieces for attention. When you are ready to choose blinds for your space, note a few tips to ensure you opt for the right style and are happy with that choice for years to come.

Venetian versus roller

Venetian blinds have slats that you twist open for light; roller blinds are as the name implies, working on a roller to open and close. Venetian blinds can add a traditional look to the space and give you control over the light and air in the room because of the slats, but those slats can also be very difficult to clean. They can also be noisy if you use them against a door that's always in use. Roller blinds, on the other hand, can be easier to clean and maintain; since they work on a track, they tend to stay in place and won't make as much noise when attached to a door.

Material

If you opt for blinds in a high-humidity space, such as a kitchen, bathroom, or laundry room, avoid wood venetian blinds and fabric roller blinds. Choose PVC or another waterproof material so that the blinds don't get ruined by all that humidity. Also, a material with a white backing will help to reflect sunlight and eliminate excess warmth, which is good for any space that gets lots of direct sunlight, as well as for those who suffer from migraines or who need a darkened space for any reason.

Safety

If you have children or pets, roller blinds are usually best, as they work without cords. Pets can also easily get between the slats of venetian blinds, ruining them or causing injury.

Access

Note how a window or door opens when choosing blinds; if you have double-hung windows, meaning that the top pane also slides open, you may want roller blinds installed on both sections so that they don't get in the way of the window movement. This is also true of sliding patio doors; venetian blinds on both sides of the door may get in the way of opening the door. Choose roller blinds for these cases for easy access and opening of a door or window.

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