How to Choose the Right Blinds for your Window

Blinds are a popular window treatment choice because of their durability, affordability and appearance. With so many styles and materials to choose from, buying the right blinds for your home can seem overwhelming. Buying blinds is actually quite simple and just requires some product knowledge and careful planning. Read on to learn more.

Instructions

• Choose vertical or horizontal blinds. Which you buy depends on window size, room placement and personal taste. Horizontal blinds are great for bedrooms as they block out more light. Vertical blinds are often best for oversized windows, as you can custom order them in almost any size. In addition, horizontal blinds can get very heavy and hard to operate on long windows, so vertical blinds can be a more practical option.
  
• Determine your budget. Installing blinds throughout a home can cost from hundreds to thousands of dollars, depending on the style, material and brand you choose. Even the most expensive blinds are generally far less expensive than curtains and drapes. Aluminum mini-blinds are often cheapest and wood blinds are usually the most costly.
• Pick a material. Vertical blinds come in fabric and PVC vinyl. Some fabric blinds are sheer, allowing light in through sheer fabric when partially open. Horizontal blinds, also called Venetian blinds, come in aluminum, faux wood and wood. Faux wood blinds look like the real thing, but are heavier and cheaper. Buy blinds in a material that complements your décor and will hold up best in a room.
• Measure your windows. It's crucial that you take precise measurements, particularly if you're buying custom blinds that are non-refundable. Always use a metal measuring tape, take each measurement twice and write down all measurements. How you measure depends on whether you'll mount blinds inside or outside the window and the type of blinds you purchase
• Buy blind accessories. Valances add a classy, finished look to vertical and horizontal blinds and come standard with some models. Motorized blinds are easy to operate via remote control and eliminate child safety risks associated with blind cords.

Tips & Warnings

• Window blinds, more commonly known as shades, are another popular option. Styles include honeycomb and Roman shades, both of which increase energy efficiency, are easy to operate and can significantly reduce energy costs.
• Vertical blinds look best in contemporary settings while wood and faux wood blinds best complement traditional and transitional decors.
• Horizontal blinds trap much more dust than vertical blinds. Wipe blinds daily with a microfiber cloth to prevent dust buildup.
• Faux wood blinds are ideal for humid areas, like bathrooms, because they are water and warp-resistant. Excessive moisture or extreme temperatures can damage wood blinds.

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Blinds & Decors Philippines