Blinds and shades are effective window coverings that will help protect your home, make it beautiful, and keep your privacy. Both offer benefits you will appreciate, so it all boils down to your preference.
If you’re having trouble choosing between blinds and shades, here are some side-by-side comparisons to help you pick the best affordable window coverings for your home.
1. Style Options
Blinds and shades both allow you to get the look that you want for your home.
Blinds are available in various designs, from the simplicity of a classic rod-pocket fabric shade to a luxurious faux wood blind that looks like an actual wood panel. You can choose the style that best fits your home’s decor and even select one that coordinates with your room’s color scheme.
On the other hand, shades are coverings made from different fabrics, but most of them mimic the look of a wooden slat panel. They have a pretty traditional look, and you can spice them up by getting a colorful print or exciting pattern.
2. Durability
Blinds are durable coverings that can stand the test of time. They are made from strong materials, such as aluminum, and some even feature glass shades. The material is resistant to water, so it can stand rain or snow slipping through your windows.
Shades, on the other hand, are not as durable as blinds. They are made from different fabrics and materials, but most of these are not waterproof and can be damaged in high-traffic areas. Even if you install them in rooms that don’t get a lot of exposure to the elements, they won’t last for years and years.
3. Insulation
Blinds offer good insulation. Although not as effective as drapes, blinds can help block out the cold or heat from your window, depending on the type of material. Aluminum blinds, for example, are a good choice for areas that are affected by extreme temperatures because of their insulating properties.
Shades are not very good at blocking the elements unless the window is left open, which can make the room warmer in the case of heat waves or cooler in the case of cold weather.
4. Privacy
Blinds are effective at providing complete privacy in your home. However, to work well, you should install the blinds in the lower parts of the window since tall blinds are easily accessible by intruders. The blinds can also be closed to block the view from outside completely.
Shades provide privacy but don’t stop people from looking in from the outside, especially if the fabric is a little lighter in color.
5. Light Control
Blinds are excellent options for light control. They effectively block unwanted light, especially in the morning when you’re sleeping.
Shades are your best bet if you prefer having the light in your home during the day but want to darken the room for a more relaxing feel at night. They are great at blocking light from getting through, but they don’t completely shut it out.
6. Maintenance
Blinds tend to be more maintenance-free than shades. This is because they are made from non-porous materials which don’t have to be cleaned very often. They are also built to last, so you won’t have to change them for years.
Shades have to be removed and washed once in a while to keep them looking fresher and brighter. Although this is not a difficult task, you need to keep it in mind if you don’t want to clean them as often as you should.
Final Thoughts
Shades and blinds are both effective options for your home’s window treatment, so you can stick with one or use both in different rooms. Overall, you can use the information above to help you choose the right one for your space.
If you’re looking for energy-efficient window coverings in Las Vegas, check out East-West Blinds & Shutters. We have a large selection of blinds, from budget-friendly options to high-end, premium options. Request a free in-home consultation today so we can help you make better choices.
