How to Choose Blinds

There are so many window blinds out there and so many of them have different uses, where do you start? Here is a really quick guide that covers some of the basics...

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Reading Time

1. 
   Fabric Roman Shades

   First let's look at the Roman Shades.

2. You can use these blinds in a few different room settings, such as formal and casual rooms. If you don't want to use traditional blinds, the roman shades will do nicely.

3. Features include: you can get these in arches, circles or other shapes
   when they are raised, it creates a "waterfall" look
   you can do an inside or outside mount
   they come with a continuous loop cord(perfect for tall windows)

4. By the way, there are many different colors and patterns to choose from. The roman shades can filter light and some has an optional room darkening option.

5. 
   Roller Shades

   Lets look at the Roller Shades.
   
   Basically there are two types of roller shades. One that darkens the room and the other that filters the light.

6. Roller shades have come a long way from the traditional vinyl material. Now there are more colors, patterns, lift control and sizes available. The room darkening shades can be used in rooms that get a lot of sunlight. They are also very decorative and can be used in formal and casual room settings. You can mount the roller shades inside or outside the frame of the window.

7. Light Filtering roller shades will diffuse the light but not block it out. You can get a variety of material with the light filtering roller shades such as, bamboo, fabric, woven wood and of course vinyl.

8. Overall, the roller shades will not require huge maintenance, will provide privacy, are very cost effective, controls room temperature and did I mention cost effective? :)

Tips & Warnings

• To clean, you can use a hand vac or duster. Some will do okay if clean with a warm rag.
• Once you decide on the type of window shade you like, please remember to let the sales person know if you will mount inside the frame of your window or outside. Very important!