Blinds, shades and other types of window coverings play an important role when it comes to interior design. The right window covering make it much easier to control natural light levels or to increase privacy within the home. With so many different styles, configurations to choose from, learning a little more about the different options available can be an important concern. Choosing the right covering can be of paramount importance when it comes to shielding the home from prying eyes.
1. Vertical Blinds
Vertical blinds are long slats that run along a horizontal track. Most vertical blinds are allow each slat to hang freely which can allow for superior airflow but the ease with which they may be knocked out of alignment or become hung up on an obstacles could make them a less effective choice in situations where privacy is the number one priority. This style of blind is most commonly used for larger windows, floor-to-ceiling windows and sliding-glass doors.
2. Roman Shades
This style of covering is very popular. Roman shades use fabric or similar material in order to cover a window and are designed so that the fabric will fold itself as the blind is raised in a way very similar to Venetian blinds. The thickness of the fabric used is a major factor when determining how much privacy or lighting-control that roman shades may be able to offer. The other drawback of this style covering is that, even when retracted, roman shades will continue to cover a large portion of the upper window.
3. Roller Shades
Another popular style of shade that are commonly found within many homes. Roller blinds make use of either a natural or synthetic fabric that can be pulled from a top-mounted roller in order to cover the window. When fully retracted, roller shades cover less of the window than many other types of shades and blinds. Shades that use thicker materials can block almost all of the light that might enter a window.
4. Solar Shades
Similar to roller shades, solar shades are intended to decrease exposure to natural light without completing obscuring the view. They do this by using fabrics and other materials that are more translucent than other coverings and may not be suitable for windows where exposure and privacy may be an issue.
5. Venetian Blinds
Perhaps the most popular style of modern window coverings, Venetian blinds use horizontal slats that can be raised or lowered by pulling on an attached string. These blinds may also be opened or closed by adjusting the angle of the slats. These coverings are able to provide a level of privacy that is suitable for most environments. For those searching for Venetian blinds ShutterUp offers many different styles and options to choose from.
6. Blackout Shades
When it comes to complete privacy, blackout shades are often the best solution. While there are plenty of different types of window coverings that are designed to completely black out a room or area, the most effective style is typically a roller shade that uses thick plastic or other synthetic materials that are able to block the vast majority of unwanted light.
7. Curtains and Drapes
While blinds and shades are most often designed to fit within a window, curtains and drapes are typically mounted to the wall surrounding the window’s frame. Curtains can be made from almost any type of materials or fabric and can be used in concert with blinds, shades and other types of window coverings in order to provide an enhanced level of privacy.
Privacy is an important concern, one that could play a major role in the creation of a more secure and comfortable household environment. From the window coverings needed to enhance privacy within bedrooms and living areas to window treatments that may be used to create a more private and exclusive kitchens or bathrooms, finding and selecting the right covering can make quite a difference. Other concerns that may need to be addressed when shopping for window coverings may include durability, the need for cleaning and upkeep or how easily each type of blind or shade may be installed. Window treatments that can provide enhanced privacy or a more eye-catching highlight for the surrounding decor can do much to transform an interior space.