How to Buy Bamboo Shades
Bamboo shades are natural window coverings that are also attractive and economical. They're available at a large number of retailers, both online and in stores. In addition to natural bamboo and bamboo blends, there are faux bamboo shades that look very much like the real thing. Does this Spark an idea?
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Instructions
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Prepare and Shop
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Decide whether you want your bamboo shades to be mounted on the inside or the outside of your window frame. Outside mount dimensions should include 1/2 inch on each side of the window. Write down the dimensions.
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Review how much light you want to block out or let in. Bamboo shades come in open-weave styles that allow in some light when closed but offer little privacy. Bamboo mini-blinds offer almost complete control over how much light is blocked. Some open-weave styles offer fabric backing for more privacy.
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Consider how much you're willing to spend or how much your budget will allow. Write this figure down, and keep it in mind as you shop for blinds. Prices can vary widely, depending on the retailer, materials, shipping (if you purchase online) and if the shades have to be made to order.
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Determine what style of bamboo shade you like the best. The choices are numerous: standard roll-ups, roman-style shades, vertical bamboo blinds and mini blinds. Materials may be all bamboo or a mix such as ambria bamboo (a mixture of jute, bamboo and other material), faux bamboo or woven woods, which include bamboo material.
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Visit local stores and see the bamboo materials for yourself up close. Write down the prices of the bamboo shades you like the best. Compare the prices and quality. Write down the name, brand, price and style of the bamboo shade that meets all of your criteria for style, design and budget.
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Shop online. Compare the price of the shades you found in stores with bamboo shades online. Check shipping costs and return policies. Ask if you'll have to pay return shipping and a restocking fee if you return the product. If you do, go elsewhere. Also remember that made-to-order blinds are often not returnable. Get as much information as you can about these policies before making a final decision.
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References
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- Photo Credit flickr
