Shades vs Blinds
How to Make the Right Choice?
As you start looking into buying blinds or shades, you may be wondering what the main differences are between each. How do you decide? What are the pros and cons of each? Investing in the right window treatments might seem overwhelming at first. Here are a few tips to help you narrow down the selection process.
Comparison: Blinds vs. Shades
Basically, blinds are window coverings made up of individual slats. They can be completely raised for an unobstructed view or, when lowered, the slats can be rotated to let in more or less light. Shades, on the other hand, are made from single panels of fabric or woven wood rather than slats, so they can only be raised or lowered to achieve light control and privacy.
The Blind Truth About Blinds
Blinds come in both horizontal and vertical slats or louvers and have the primary function of controlling the amount of light coming through. Parkland® Wood Blinds are handcrafted from genuine hardwood and feature a variety of slat sizes, upgrades and decorative tapes. Their multi-step finishing process offers maximum protection and a rich appearance.
Another option to consider is alternative wood blinds that withstand heat and humidity. Choose the realistic TruGrain® finish of EverWood® Alternative Wood Blinds for the luxurious look of wood blinds. They’re guaranteed against fading, yellowing, warping or bowing, even in extreme temperatures and direct sunlight.
The Many Shades of Shades
Hunter Douglas offers many types of shades with unique functional benefits from light diffusion to energy efficiency, along with a variety of design options and much more. Innovation is the hallmark of the Hunter Douglas brand, and homeowners everywhere enjoy this attention to quality and detail.
Cellular Shades
Duette® Honeycomb Shades are the first shades to be engineered with a unique cellular construction that adds an extra layer of insulation at the window.
Sheers and Shadings
Silhouette® Window Shadings transform sunlight through your windows with soft adjustable fabric vanes that appear to be floating between two sheer fabric panels. Simply tilt the vanes to achieve your desired level of light and privacy.
Pirouette® Window Shadings feature soft, horizontal fabric vanes attached to a single sheer backing, allowing for enhanced views to the outside while maintaining privacy and the full beauty of the fabric appearance on the inside.
Modern Roman Shades
Vignette® Modern Roman Shades are our take on traditional Roman shades. They roll or stack with consistent folds and no exposed rear cords for enhanced child and pet safety.
Woven Wood Shades
Provenance® Woven Wood Shades are made from natural materials like bamboo, grasses, reeds and woods, so each individual shade has a very unique look. Since they are designed mainly to filter light, they’re best for areas where you don’t need complete privacy or light blockage.
So What Do I Choose? Blinds? Shades?
Before making your final selection, think about your light, privacy and energy-efficiency requirements as well as your views. If you have amazing views, you may want blinds with larger slats, or shades that completely retract into the headrail. If you look directly into your neighbor’s home, you may want to consider a sheer that brings light in but doesn’t draw attention to your less-than-perfect view. If you are considering drapes, we offer a comprehensive guide to shades vs drapes and how to choose.
Whatever your situation, our local experts are ready to help you choose window treatments that will work for your unique situation. The first step is to request a consultation. We’ll match you with an expert in your area who will contact you to discuss your needs. This consultation is a great way to start your Hunter Douglas journey and learn more about our products.
