Tips and Types of Window Coverings

Window blinds are coverings for windows, normally attached to the interior side. Window blinds refer to some device to hide from sight or to help reduce sunlight. There are several kinds of blinds, which are covered below.

Venetian blinds Venetian is a large category in blinds. The original types were made with wide curved metal slats, similar to a mini slat. The shapes can be curved, flat, or even elliptical.

Faux or PVC These types of mini blinds are made from a solid or foamed poly vinyl chloride plastic. PVC is one of the newer materials being used for blind slats. The slat's surface can be smooth or embossed with a wood grain. Although color selection is limited mostly to whites, there are a few wod tone colors available as well.

PVC or faux are very durable, UV resistant, waterproof, and simple to clean. The main drawback with faux blinds is the weight of the slats. PVC slats are heavier than both wood and composite slats and when used with large windows, they can make raising the window a difficult task.

Composite blinds Composite type blinds are made from a combination of wood products and polymers. Composite is a newer material that's being used for the window covering. The slat surface with composite is a smooth poly coating or even a solid composite material.

Similiar to PVC, the color selection is normally limited mostly to whites although there are a few wood tone and stain colors available. The composite blinds are priced in the low to mid range. They have qualities similar to PVC and faux, and are some of the best available.

Wood blinds Both value and premium wood blinds are made from real wood. The value wood blind slats are made from assorted Oriental hardwood, and the premium slats are made from American hardwood, which is normally Basswood.

If you plan to match a cabinet or trim stain, wood blinds will be your best choice. Wood blinds are among the best, although they are also among the most expensive. All wooden slats can warp and may fade in color over time. They are also the lightest material available and work really good with large windows.

Since they were first introduced to the home, window blinds have proven to add style and peace of mind. They offer you a lot for your windows, and they don't cost a lot of money. You have several different types to choose from, all you have to do is select the best types for your home and your needs.

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Many factors play a role in selecting the right covering for your window. The main reasons as to why you should install window coverings are light control and privacy. Other factors include durability, life expectancy, cleaning, formality, versatility, safety, and the price.

Light control The most difficult factor to control is light, with most window coverings falling into one of five categories:

1. Transparent - Clear, without obstruction

2. Translucent - Diffused light, which prevents the perception of distinct images

3. Filtered - Muted light in bright conditions

4. Semi-Opaque - Surfaces imprenetrableby light, yet it also allows some light through the gaps

5. Opaque - This is where all light is blocked

Privacy Privacy can be best achieved with almost any type of window covering. The window treatment simply needs to be translucent or better to diffuse images. Frosted glass or glass block can even help to give adequate levels of privacy.

Durability A window opening by nature is a harsh environment that is subject to direct sunlight, humidity, and even temperatures. Add these factors to frequent use and its simple to understand why windows need to be constructed well. The life expectancy is normally less for fabric window treatment that can fade with time. Solid coverings, such as shutters, have a long life span.

Cleaning Each and every window covering will collect dust and dirt. Fabric coverings are the most difficult to clean, and are subject to stains. The furniture quality window coverings will normally wipe clean with a light solution.

Versatility Some coverings will work well in formal settings, while others will work best in casual living settings. Alternate styles are versatile and blend in well with almost any style of room.

Safety Small children in the home will usually come in contact with windows and their coverings. Some coverings will have cords to raise or lower for better visibility. Although they are handy to have, they can be dangerous if they come within reach of a child.

Price While there is a discrepancy in the costs of window coverings, it's very important to weigh the overall value involved. The term "value" is often overused, although when purchasing long term household items it is necessary to consider the return on the investment.

Window coverings on the low end of the price spectrum will normally have a short life expectancy and low durability. The higher priced coverings, such as shutters, are designed to last the life of the home - all while retaining the original character.

Shutters offer a hard window covering that is semi opaque when closed, although they provide great visibility when opened. The furniture quality wooden shutters can be either painted or stained in order to meet the needs of most decors. All shutters are extremely durable and offer a long life span.