INDUSTRY INSIGHT
WINDOW TREATMENTS
SPONSORED CONTENT
BLINDS OR SHADES –
WHICH ARE BETTER?
Blinds and shades are two types of window treatments that come
in a wide variety of styles and with lots of options. Blinds are “hard”
window treatments with slats or vanes made of wood, composite,
vinyl or aluminum. They can be horizontal or vertical. Shutters are
a gorgeous alternative and function in much the same way. Shades
are “soft” window coverings made of fabric, vinyl, woven woods or
grasses. When deciding between the two, and selecting any type of
window treatment, you need to consider the following factors.
PRIVACY & LIGHT CONTROL
How will you use the room? Bedrooms and bathrooms have an
obvious need for privacy and light control, as well as rooms where
you’ll watch TV or work at a computer. Blinds provide the most
flexibility with privacy and light control because they can be tilted
open or closed, as well as raised and lowered depending upon the
amount of privacy/light you desire. With shades, privacy and light
control is achieved only by raising or lowering the shade, but it
also depends on the type and color of material you choose. Shade
materials range from sheer to light filtering to completely light
blocking.
CLIMATE & NATURAL LIGHT
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The right window treatment can actually increase your home’s
energy efficiency. Western- and southern-facing rooms receive strong
warm light and require increased light and heat control. Energyefficient window treatments like cellular shades trap hot or cold air
at the window. In a northern climate during the winter months or
in a north-facing room, you will want to allow more light in to take
advantage of the sun’s radiant heat. Moreover, UV light can damage,
fade or darken beautiful hardwood floors and fine furnishings. In
these rooms, you may want to consider window shades specifically
made to block UV light.
ARCHITECTURAL DETAILS & ROOM DÉCOR
The right blind or shade can showcase great architectural details,
like bay windows, that take center stage in a room. The clean, tailored
lines of shutters and blinds complement contemporary, classic and
masculine interiors. If you’re going for a more feminine, softer look,
you might want to opt for a fabric roman shade. Consider the mix of
materials in your room’s décor. Ideally, you want to achieve a balance
between hard materials like wood, metal, tile and stone and soft
fabric materials. For example, if your room has porcelain tile on the
floor, wood and metal tables with leather furniture, the softness and
texture of a roman shade help balance the décor.
The right window can really complete a design aesthetic, but the
wrong one can do the opposite. There are plenty of variables to
consider, and not all of them are immediately obvious. At Gotcha
Covered, we can help guide you through the process.
Owner/Consultant
This Industry Insight was written by Stacey Hudson.
412.302.2454
As owner and design consultant of Gotcha Covered,
Stacey is actively involved in all aspects of clients’ projects
from creative inception to meticulous installation. She is
committed to continuing education and stays current on
the latest product information, innovations and design
trends. Having her clients speak well about her and their
experience is of utmost importance.
[email protected]
www.gotchacoveredofpittsburghsouth.com
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