Know Your Blinds for Windows

Posted by johnpreston on November 25th, 2015

When people think of blinds for windows, many still believe that all of these products are similar. But this is not so as blinds, also known as shades, come in a wide range of styles, sizes (i.e., thickness, width and length), and purposes.

The Differences Based on the Amount of Sunlight Filtered

Shades come in two major types according to the amount of sunlight filtered:  

•   Light filtering shades are usually made from light-colored materials usually cream, beige and off-white hues. When installed, these blinds diffuse exterior light (i.e., sunlight), filter out the sun’s ultraviolet rays and harsh glare, and bathe the room in a warm light. Basically, these will not completely block out the sunlight from entering the interiors.

•   Blackout shades are typically made from dark, thick and opaque materials in colors ranging from dark blue, green and even red to black. As the name implies, these blinds block out exterior light and offer complete privacy from prying eyes on the outside. These are great options for bedrooms, media rooms, and children’s rooms.  

In places where safety from cords is a concern, such as in children’s bedrooms and playrooms, the best choices are cordless cellular shades.  

Level of Insulation It Provides

Blinds can also be used to add insulation to the home or office. The best choice for insulation purposes are honeycomb cellular shades, which are window coverings made from pleated fabrics designed in honeycomb-shaped cellular compartments in single, double and triple layers. These shades are also available in a wide range of opacities from sheer shades that filter out exterior light to blackout shades that block out exterior light.   

The rule of thumb: The more layers in the shades, the more energy efficient these products are. This is because the layers trap air and, thus, provide insulation.

•   Single cell shades are best for areas where energy efficiency may be a concern but not a major problem.
•   Double cell shades obviously have two layers of cells, which are effective in trapping and keeping insulated air in the interior areas.
•   Triple cell shades are best for areas where highly efficient insulation products are a must.

Now that you know these types of blinds, you will be able to make a smarter decision about shades that will address your needs and wants in the home products.

For more information please visit our website: www.reginablinds.com