When people think of window treatments, they have a tendency to think of curtains. It's easy enough to see why. They're classy and classic, convenient to get a hold of, and most people's natural window treatment option. However, times are changing. Now, more and more commercial window treatments also use shades and blinds. 

Others have gone on to use office blinds, which is all thanks to the blinds’ functionality and adaptability. Of course, something new isn't necessarily something that's automatically accepted. Many establishments that are looking to buy blinds for the first time have hesitations, questions and full-on doubts.

Blinds vs. Shades

The key difference between blinds and shades are in the material they are made out of. Blinds can come made of aluminium, fabric, faux wood, PVC or wood. Shades are generally made of fabric, with options such as blackout or light filtering ones. 

Windows get a lot of benefits from shades and blinds. It's because the sun's rays, both UV and the harsher, 'white-heat' beams, are cut considerably. Instead, the room or space gets lit through wonderfully diffused light. Where necessary, light will be kept out in full, aiding in both the security and privacy of a property. 

Aside from helping block unwelcome outside views, it helps to upgrade the look and feel of your space. The styles are endless in terms of prints, textures and colours!

Before You Buy

Wonderful, you've decided to use blinds for your windows! Now you need to pick one, and it has to be just right. If you pick something that looks nice but doesn't function the way you need it to, it's not worth it. If you pick something functional which helps you out but isn't necessarily pretty or within your aesthetic, in the long run, it'll bring you unpleasant feelings instead. 

That's because blinds allow for a full-on transformation of the vibe of the space. It can bring energy, lighten a mood and even breathe new life into a space entirely. As previously mentioned, however, it's key to pick the blinds which are just right. There are safety considerations regarding motorised operations and/or cords if you have child guests.

Ask yourself the following questions and make your blinds choice based on that:

  • How much are you willing to spend on the blinds?
  • How much are you willing to spend on the maintenance of your blinds?
  • How much effort and time can you actually put into selecting window treatments?
  • What fabric or material are you looking to use?
  • What kind of light do you want (diffused, vibrant, none at all)?
  • What kind of decor style does your property have (contemporary, medieval, minimalist, something else)?

Conclusion

Blinds and shades are quickly becoming the new preference over the traditional curtains. The likes of fire-resistant roller blinds have certainly helped in shifting the perspective of people. Before you make a purchase, figure out which fabric or material you're looking to use, what kind of light you want and how much you're willing to spend in the first place.

Looking for flame retardant blinds, office roller blinds and contract blinds? Order from Direct Fabrics today! We are a supplier of fabrics for hotels, care homes, schools and more.