Blinds and Window Shades Buying Guide

Blinds connect thin strips of plastic, bamboo, wood or metal with strings and hardware for easy adjustment. They look best on narrow windows in bedrooms, kitchens and workrooms. Before you buy blinds, check out the different styles of window blinds:

• Mini-blinds have 1/2-inch- to 1-inch-wide slats made of very thin material.
• Plantation or Venetian blinds are 1 to 2 inches wide and made of slightly thicker wood or molded plastic than that of mini-blinds.
• Vertical window blinds feature strips of fabric and plastic hanging vertically from an overhead track, making them the best option for controlling light and providing privacy with a sliding glass door.
• Sliding door blinds are another option for vertical window coverings.
• Bamboo blinds are durable and made with natural materials. They filter various shades of light.
• In-stock blinds are available in a range of common window sizes and cost much less than custom-sized blinds.

There are two light level types to choose from: light filtering and room darkening. If possible, mount a blind inside the window frame for a cleaner look. Shop for a blind 1 to 2 inches smaller than the width of the opening. For wide windows, plan to use two or more smaller blinds for coverage. Small blinds are easier to operate than long, heavy blinds.

Blinds add a nice touch to any window or door, but be sure you’re getting the right-size blinds to fit your particular windows. In-stock blinds fit common windows and come in premeasured sizes. Custom blinds can be cut in store to fit your particular window needs. Cut-to-width blinds can be cut at home to perfectly fit your window.

Use standard blinds for common windows, such as double hung windows, picture windows and sliding windows. These all come in standard lengths and widths, so you should be able to find the dimensions you need.

If your home has windows with less-common sizes — such as arched windows, skylights, portholes or trapezoid windows — they’ll likely require custom blinds.

Window shades offer a different look than blinds. Instead of a design with horizontal slats, they're made from pieces of fabric that can be lifted up or pulled down to control a room's light exposure and privacy. Below are a few different types of window shades.

These bolts of vinyl or fabric mount to the top of window frames and unroll manually. They work well on narrow windows in just about any room.

• Pre-sized roller shades are much more affordable than custom-sized shades.
• If possible, mount roller shades inside the window frame for a cleaner look. Shop for a shade that’s 1 to 2 inches smaller than the width of the opening.
  

These tailored panels of fabric or natural material mount to the inside or top of window frames and bunch up like an accordion when you pull a cord. They work well in any room and window width. Choose the right Roman shades:

• Roman shades are pre-sized and cost much less than custom shades.
• Lined, cloth Roman shades are best for light blocking and privacy, while unlined shades usually only filter light.
  

Cellular shades, sometimes called honeycomb shades, are designed to insulate your windows and improve privacy. They’re perfect for the living room and bedrooms. Choose the right cellular shades:

• Single- and double-cell shades are available.
• You can choose from light filtering, room darkening and blackout designs.
  

Shutters aren’t just for covering the exterior of your windows. They can also add beauty and charm to the inside of your home. These wood or plastic shutters are mounted with hinges on each side of the window frame so they open and close easily, and they feature adjustable slats to allow for varying degrees of light and privacy. Shutters look great in kitchens, family rooms, bathrooms and workrooms.

To give your windows extra flair, cap them off with valances. These top treatments are narrow strips of fabric that run along the top width of a window. They look fantastic in any room where you want a stylish touch, whether it’s the kitchen, living room, dining room or bedroom.

• Pair valances with blinds or shades for light control and privacy.
• Valances often require special mounting hardware. Remember to consider hardware costs when planning a window treatment purchase.
  
• For a full effect with generous waves of fabric, purchase a valance with fabric that’s two to three times the width of each window.
  

• Glare Control: This film blocks ultraviolet rays that cause interior finishes to fade.
• Heat Control: This film reflects heat to keep your air conditioning costs down in the summer. Some also have a low-emissive coating that helps retain heat in the winter.
  
• Privacy Control: There are several finishes to choose from for maximum privacy, including mirrored, etched, frosted or decorative films.
  
• As a Décor Element: A variety of tints, textures and patterns is available — from frosted glass and mosaics to geometric patterns and rice paper and more.