| Guide to Blinds and Shades |
Window blinds and shades are window coverings, similar to curtains, meant to regulate light and maintain privacy. They are used in residences and commercial places. In some places, 'window blinds' refers to all kinds of window coverings – awnings, roller shades, shutters, roman shades, vertical blinds and horizontal blinds.
How do blinds work?
A horizontal blind has laddered slats that are tied together, and also with a rotating drum individually. A cord works the drum, which rotates to pull the slats up in a stack or drop down. A vertical blind works similarly. The slats are wider and get stacked at one or both ends of the window when the cord is pulled.
Blinds are operated manually or via switches, remote controls, keypads, computers, etc. Mechanical control allows easy control of inaccessible window shades.
Types of blinds and shades
There is a huge variety of blinds and shades – mini blinds, micro blinds, jalousies, Holland blinds, louvers, Roman shades, roller shades, pleated blinds and many more. The more common types of blinds and shades are described below:
Persian blinds
Persian blinds can have vertical or horizontal slats made of metal, stiff fabric or vinyl. They are especially effective in keeping out light as the slats close together tightly.
Venetian blinds
Venetian blinds have horizontal slats that can be stacked tightly or opened inwards or outwards to regulate light and air. Slats are made of metal or plastic. Slat width ranges from 16-120 millimeter.
Vertical blinds
Vertical blinds have slats made of thick plastic. They are usually used on doors that open frequently. They gather less dirt, are easier to operate than horizontal blinds, withstand strong winds and discourage insects from flying in. However, vertical blinds tend to break down more often than horizontal blinds.
Cellular shades
Cellular shades are energy efficient shades with a honeycomb structure that allows better light and air regulation. They come in light filtering and room darkening fabrics. Varieties of cellular shades are:
Materials used in blinds and shades
Window blinds can be made of fabric, wood, faux wood, plastic, cloth, synthetic materials or metal. Metal blinds are effective in shielding the indoor area from bad weather, unfavorable temperatures, theft and fire.
Apart from regulating light, air, and temperature, blinds and shades can add to the ambience of a room. Patterned and textured blinds are available to suit various climatic conditions. Window blinds prices vary by quality, size and brand
