Choosing a Window Blind

by: Chris Wood

Choosing a new window blind requires some thought as to which is the best type of blind for a particular window, and what you want it to achieve.

There are many reasons for choosing a blind to cover a window, and a wide range of window blind options to suit particular applications. Let’s look at a few.

Vertical Blinds
Vertical blinds were designed originally to provide a covering for patio doors, but are now popular throughout the home and office. Vertical blind fabrics range from blackout and dimout fabrics – useful for cutting down glare onto computer and television screens, and also to provide some privacy – to coated fabrics which reflect the heat of the suns rays, and standard fabrics which provide shade and privacy, and also protect furnishings from the damaging effects of the sun.

Vertical blinds are very versatile; the louvers rotate through 180 degrees, enabling them to be positioned in any direction. Vertical blind louvers can be set up to draw left, right, or to split from the centre.

Roller Blinds
Roller blinds are very popular in kitchens and bathrooms, and provide both shade and privacy. Roller blinds are available in a variety of fabrics, similar to – and in some cases matching- Vertical blind fabrics, plus a large array of patterns. Roller blinds are available either in standard sizes, which often need to be cut down to fit, or as a made to measure item. Made to measure blinds of all types tend to be manufactured from better quality components and fabrics.

Venetian Blinds
Venetian blinds offer a smart and versatile way to cover a window. The horizontal slats rotate to allow them to be directed as required. Venetian blind slats are available in 15mm, 25mm 35mm or 50mm widths. Quality Venetian blind slats are made from aluminium, or wood. Wooden Venetian blinds are a stylish alternative.

Roman Blinds
Roman blinds offer a practical and fashionable way of covering a window. These soft fabric blinds can be lined or unlined, and some offer the option of a blackout lining. Drawing up in neat folds, roman blinds are particularly suited to bedrooms and sitting rooms.