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Window Treatments: Blinds vs Shades - Which One to Choose?

When it comes to choosing window treatments for homes in Monmouth Beach, there are hundreds of different options to choose from. If you are buying window treatments for the first time, you may not know where to begin. The first important step is to choose between blinds and shades. Unfortunately, the vast majority of homeowners don’t know whether to choose blinds or shades - or if there is even any difference between the two. If you have been struggling too, we are here to help. 

What are blinds? 

Window blinds are rigid, beautiful, functional, and popular window treatments. Faux wood blinds, aluminum blinds, and Venetian blinds are some of the most popular options you can choose. They are hard window treatments that have slats made of metal, wood, vinyl, or composite. They add a classic and elegant look to your overall home decor. They can be mounted inside or outside the frame. If you want a cleaner look, you can mount blinds on the inside. Opt to mount blinds outside if you want to make your windows look wider. 

What are shades? 

Window shades are soft window treatments that are made of one continuous panel of fabric. They are solid lengths of fabric that can be drawn up and down with the help of a cord or lifting mechanism. Since window shades are made of fabric, they are available in all colors and shapes.

Difference between blinds and shades 

Even though many homeowners interchangeably use blinds and shades, there is a huge difference between the two. The primary difference between shades and blinds is the material used to make them. Blinds are hard, structured window coverings that have slates. Whereas shades are soft window treatments featuring panels of fabric. 

Which one is the right option for your home? 

Although both shades and blinds serve the same purpose of covering your windows for better light control, privacy, and energy efficiency, one may be a better option for your home than the other. 

  • Light control - 

Depending on the amount of sunlight you want to let in your home, you can choose either blinds or shades. While blinds offer variable light control thanks to their slatted construction, shades are an ideal option if you want to diffuse light or darken the room. 

  • Privacy 

Both shades and blinds are great to achieve privacy in your room. However, the material used to build blinds and shades may vary the level of privacy you get. 

  • Cleaning and maintenance 

Since blinds are made of hard material, they are easier to clean and maintain. Wiping blinds with a damp cloth is enough to clean them on a regular basis. However, it can be tricky to clean shades due to their fabric used to make them. You may need to use a vacuum cleaner or hand wash shades. 

If you still need help choosing the right window treatments in Monmouth Beach, you can consult with Budget Blinds, a leading window treatments distributor. 


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