Blinds make a fashionably stylish statement on any window, whether or not accompanied by draperies. Choosing between different styles of blinds depends on the size and style of window, the design of the room and the preferences of the homeowner. Since there are a variety of blinds available, knowing which one to pick can be a difficult decision. Two types of blinds you may come across in your search for new window coverings are wood and aluminum. While they both do the job of covering up your windows, there's a good chance one type will win out over the other when it comes time for you to decide.
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Style
Wooden blind manufacturers produce blinds from oak, pine and basswood, as well as other woods. You can find an abundance of stains and painted finishes to complement your room's decor, based on the type of wood blind you choose. Custom headrails and cornices can be purchased separately if the blind does not come with an appealing headrail. Most companies offer color matching for optional cornices and headrails so the color harmonizes with or closely resembles the blind. Aluminum blinds come in many different styles and colors, as well as finishes. You can choose from neutral tones with a flat finish or bright-colored blinds with a glossy finish, and any combination thereof. Each aluminum blind has its own built-in headrail, offering a designer look.
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Privacy and Light Blockage
Wooden blinds offer an exceptional privacy option versus many other types of blinds. The solid makeup of the wood prevents individuals from even seeing shapes or shadows through the window. Wood blinds do a fair job of blocking light; however, many specialty blind companies offer a no-holes option. No-holes wood blinds also referred to as routless blinds, have tiny notches on each side of the slat that sits in the blind ladders. When closed, the notches fit flatly against the ladders, preventing any light from breaking through. Aluminum blinds provide some privacy when closed, but may show shadows and silhouettes within a lighted room. Many aluminum blind manufacturers also offer a no-holes feature with the ladder holes located at the top of the blind slat. When the blinds are closed, the bottom of each slat covers the holes of the slat below it, blocking light from the room.
Sizing
Both wooden blinds and aluminum blinds come in a variety of standard sizes, whether purchased in the store or as a special-order item. Many home improvement stores can cut aluminum blinds while you wait. For sizes and colors not available in the store, many special-order options exist. Most department and home improvement stores only cut faux wood blinds and not real wood versions; however, many special-order options exist for woods as well.
Considerations
When you're dealing with a room that receives a lot of sun, reconsidering wooden blinds might be a good idea. When exposed to strong sunlight and heat over a period of time, certain types of wood may warp and fade. Aluminum blinds, however, will not warp when exposed to heat and direct light, making them a better choice for a sunny room. Wooden blinds may also not be the best selection for a steamy bathroom. Extended contact with moisture can also warp a wood blind. In addition, while most companies market their aluminum blinds as rustproof, some brands of aluminum blinds may experience corrosion. In a situation such as this, a faux wood blind or a vinyl blind may be a better solution.