Blinds and Window Shades
Attractive Blinds and Window Shades
Blinds and window shades can attractively accent any room, but they also offer important features that may improve the quality of life in your home. Today’s blinds and window shades can filter or completely block out light, provide complete privacy, protect from UV rays, insulate your home and help cut down on heating bills.
Blackout Shades and Blinds
Today’s window treatments are available in three levels of darkening: light filtering, room darkening and blackout, the latter filtering out nearly 99% of sunlight. Both blackout blinds and shades, as well as some lined designs, can provide this level of protection. When browsing your options, consider how much privacy you need in your rooms and the fading effects that sunlight can have on some fabrics. For instance, you might want blackout shades for your bedroom, as they're perfect for when you want to sleep in and don't want the sun to wake you.
Solar Shades
If you live in an area of plentiful sun and intense heat, consider customizable solar shades. These specialty shades manage light, provide heat, glare and UV protection and give you back the full use of rooms that receive a lot of sun.
Roman Shades
Constructed of cotton or soft paper, graceful Roman window shades are aesthetically pleasing and provide some insulation against the cold, saving you money on your home heating bills. They are available in light filtering, room darkening and blackout designs. Offered in a variety of colors and textures, they’re as attractive on their own as they are with curtains.
Cellular Shades
A close cousin to Roman shades, cellular shades also provide some insulation and are available in light filtering, room darkening and blackout designs. You may also hear these window treatments referred to as honeycomb blinds. Some models are eco-friendly too; there are beautiful, subtly hued and textured styles that are actually manufactured from recycled water bottles.
Bamboo Shades
For a rich, natural look, consider biodegradable bamboo window shades, which are a favorite of modern designers. Shades made from bamboo, teak and other kinds of wood let some light filter in, can be mounted inside or outside a window frame and lend warmth to any room. Go with a natural look or a shade with a back liner for added privacy.
Faux Wood Shades
Faux wood shades give the look of wood for a fraction of the price. These shades are durable, moisture-resistant and easy to clean, making them a good choice for kitchens and bathrooms.
Mini Blinds
If you’re working with a shallow depression in front of your window, consider mini blinds. These are also available in light filtering, room darkening and blackout designs. However, they have an easy tilt feature, allowing you to easily adjust the light. Consider a vinyl model for high humidity areas like the kitchen, bathroom and basement.
Roller Shades
Window roller shades are an economical solution to mitigating light and providing privacy. They are available in many colors and textures and can be mounted inside or outside the window frame. Choose between traditional or cordless blinds. You can use them on their own, or to provide additional privacy under sheer curtains.
Vertical Blinds
Consider using vertical blinds to transform a floor-to-ceiling window into a fourth wall with graceful color and texture. Choose a hue that matches or complements the room’s décor to achieve the desired effect. Use the attached wand to let in as much or as little light as you please. Open the slats fully in the early morning and eat breakfast bathing in the peaceful light of the morning sun. Close the slats in the evening and enjoy full privacy. You can also use vertical blinds as stylish room dividers or closet doors.
Window blinds and shades are an important, functional and stylish accent to your home that you’ll use for years. Check out the samples at Lowes.com or visit a store to find the right shades and blinds for you.
Sliding Door Blinds
Sliding door blinds are a great way to block the sun rays from entering a patio door and to add privacy when needed. Vertical blinds are the best choice for this use, as they move in the same direction as the sliding door.
French Door Blinds
French door blinds can be installed on exterior doors that have glass panels. They’re available in a variety of lengths and widths to accommodate the door design. Vertically oriented blinds are ideally suited for French-style doors.
Custom Blinds
Having trouble finding the exact size or color of blinds you need? Consider ordering custom blinds.
