Deciding Which Blinds Are Right for Your Windows

No matter the style or type you choose for your home, blinds perform two important functions - controlling light and providing privacy. And in regard to those two functions, blinds offer more versatility and control than other types of window coverings.

For the most part, curtains, draperies and even shades offer an "all or nothing" solution for your windows, the only control over light is obtained by how far open they are. On the other hand, blinds offer many degrees of light control and visibility of the outdoors. Strong sunlight can be filtered while the view of the garden is still maintained. Recent improvements that eliminate extra holes in the blinds can also assure powerful darkening abilities when the need arises.

Anyone who has lived in a first floor bedroom, or in a house with close neighbors, understands the need for window coverings to provide privacy. Often this comes at the price of reduced sunlight. Blinds can provide privacy from prying eyes while still providing the amount of light you need.

Today's blinds also come in a variety of materials, including traditional aluminum, plastic, and wood. Slats can range from the mini-blind size of less than an inch, to wooden blinds in widths of 3 inches or more. The blinds you pick for your room will depend on many factors, including your decorating style and budget.

One of the best ways to choose the proper blinds from your home is to have a window covering consultant come to your home. The consultant will ask you to consider many things you may not have even thought of. For example, do you want your blinds to be mounted outside the window frame, or inside the window frame? This is important to consider if you have decorative molding around your windows that you want to show off.

The consultant will also ask you about how much use the room gets, and how many times a day you may be making adjustments to the blinds. This will help you get the most durable blinds for your needs. The consultant can measure your windows properly, helping you to avoid costly mistakes. And of course, once all these things are taken care of, the consultant can help you decide on the best color, pattern or design for your blinds, even recommend the newest electronic and automatic blinds.

With a little planning and a little professional advice, you can choose blinds for your home that will offer years of service and style.