Buying Guide: Custom Blinds & Shades for Your Home
Custom blinds and shades are a great way to add privacy, light control, and style to your home. With so many different types and styles of blinds available, it can be challenging to know where to start. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the process of buying custom blinds and shades for your home.
Intro to Custom Blinds & Shades
What are Custom blinds?
Custom blinds are window treatments that are made to fit the exact measurements of your windows. Blinds are typically made up of slats or vanes that can be adjusted to control the amount of light and privacy in a room. They can be made of a variety of materials, such as wood, metal, or vinyl, and can come in a range of styles, including horizontal or vertical. Blinds can be opened and closed using cords or wands, and can also be motorized for added convenience.
What are Custom Shades?
Custom shades are window treatments that are made to fit the exact measurements and specifications of your windows. Shades, on the other hand, are typically made of a single piece of material that covers the entire window, such as fabric or woven wood. They can be raised and lowered using cords or a continuous cord loop, and can also be motorized for added convenience. Shades can provide a range of light control and privacy options, from light-filtering to blackout, and can come in a range of styles, including roller shades, cellular shades, and Roman shades.
Blind Vs. Shades
One key difference between blinds and shades is the level of control they offer. Blinds provide more precise light and privacy control, as the slats can be adjusted to allow in just the right amount of light, while shades generally offer less precise control, but can provide a more uniform look to a room.
Another difference is in their appearance. Blinds tend to have a more structured and formal look, while shades can provide a softer, more organic look. However, both blinds and shades can be customized with a range of colors, textures, and patterns to suit a variety of styles and design preferences.
Choosing the Right Type of Blinds or Shades
Consider the Purpose and Function of the Room Different rooms in your home have different needs when it comes to blinds. For example, the kitchen may require moisture-resistant blinds, while the bedroom may need blackout blinds to promote better sleep.
Evaluate the Amount of Sunlight and Privacy Needed.
Natural Sunlight
If you want to allow lots of natural light into your space, you may want to consider purchasing sheer or light-filtering blinds. Here are a few types of blinds that may work well for this purpose:
Sheer blinds: Sheer blinds are made of a translucent or semi-transparent fabric that allows a significant amount of natural light to enter the room while still providing some privacy. They can be a great option if you want to maximize the amount of sunlight in your space while maintaining some level of privacy.
Light-filtering blinds: Light-filtering blinds are made of a slightly thicker material than sheer blinds, but they still allow natural light to pass through while reducing glare and UV rays. They are a great option for rooms where you want to control the amount of sunlight that enters the space.
Solar shades: Solar shades are made of a mesh-like material that blocks UV rays and glare while still allowing natural light to pass through. They can be a great option for rooms that receive a lot of direct sunlight or that face a busy street or other bright outdoor areas.
Privacy
If you’re looking for complete privacy in a room, there are several types of blinds that can help you achieve this goal. Here are a few options to consider:
Blackout blinds: Blackout blinds are made of a thicker material that completely blocks out all light and provides complete privacy. They are a great option for bedrooms or other areas where you want to create a dark and private environment.
Room darkening blinds: Room darkening blinds are similar to blackout blinds but may allow a small amount of light to enter the room. They are a great option for areas where you want to create a sense of privacy and intimacy while still allowing some natural light to enter the space.
Vertical blinds: Vertical blinds are made of slats that can be adjusted to control the amount of light and privacy in a room. They are a great option for large windows or sliding glass doors, and can provide complete privacy when the slats are closed.
Cellular shades: Cellular shades are made of a honeycomb-shaped material that can be designed to completely block out light and provide complete privacy. They can also help insulate your windows and provide energy efficiency.
Determine the Style, Design, and Material You Want
Consider the style and design that best suits your needs and home decor. Blinds and shades can be decorative elements in a room, so it’s important to choose a color and finish that matches the decor. Popular Colors and Finishes for Different Room Types For example, for a kitchen, lighter colors and natural finishes work well, while in a bedroom, darker colors and matte finishes are a better choice.
When choosing the material, consider factors such as durability, insulation, and moisture resistance when choosing the material for your blinds. Here below are the most popular styles and designs of blinds and shades.
Blinds
Panel Tracks: Panel tracks are a type of window covering that consist of large panels of fabric or woven wood that slide along a track. They are a popular option for large windows or sliding glass doors, and can be made in a variety of colors and styles to match your decor. Panel tracks can be made with light-filtering or blackout fabrics to control the amount of natural light in a room.
Wood Blinds: Wood blinds are a classic and timeless option for window coverings. They are made of real wood slats that can be adjusted to control the amount of light and privacy in a room. They are available in a range of stains and finishes to match your decor and can be operated with a cord or a motorized system. Wood blinds provide a natural and warm look to any space.
Faux Wood Blinds: Faux wood blinds are made of a composite material that resembles real wood but is more durable and moisture-resistant. They are a great option for rooms that are prone to humidity or moisture, such as bathrooms or kitchens. They are available in a range of stains and finishes and can be operated with a cord or a motorized system. Faux wood blinds are a budget-friendly alternative to real wood blinds that provide a similar look and feel.
Mini Blinds: Mini blinds are a budget-friendly option for window coverings. They are made of thin, horizontal slats that can be adjusted to control the amount of light and privacy in a room. They are available in a range of colors and finishes and can be operated with a cord or a motorized system. Mini blinds are a simple and sleek option for smaller windows or for rooms where a minimalist look is desired.
Vertical Blinds: Vertical blinds consist of long, vertical slats that can be adjusted to control the amount of light and privacy in a room. They are a popular option for larger windows or sliding glass doors. They are available in a range of materials, including fabric, vinyl, and wood, and can be operated with a cord or a motorized system. Vertical blinds are a versatile and customizable option that can be made to match any decor style.
Shades
Honeycomb/Cellular Shades: Honeycomb or cellular shades are a popular option for window coverings due to their energy efficiency and light-filtering capabilities. They are made of a pleated fabric that creates a series of cells, which trap air and provide insulation. They are available in a range of colors and opacities, from light-filtering to blackout, and can be operated with a cord or a motorized system. Honeycomb shades provide a sleek and modern look that can be customized to match any decor style.
Roller Shades: Roller shades are a simple and versatile option for window coverings. They are made of a single piece of fabric that can be rolled up or down to control the amount of light and privacy in a room. They are available in a range of colors and opacities, from light-filtering to blackout, and can be operated with a cord or a motorized system. Roller shades provide a clean and minimalist look that can be customized to match any decor style.
Solar Shades: Solar shades are a type of roller shade that are specifically designed to block UV rays and reduce glare. They are made of a specialized screen fabric that provides a clear view of the outside while reducing heat and glare. They are available in a range of colors and opacities and can be operated with a cord or a motorized system. Solar shades are a great option for rooms that receive a lot of sunlight, such as living rooms or offices.
Sheer Shades: Sheer shades are a type of window covering that combines the softness of drapery with the functionality of shades. They are made of two layers of fabric that can be adjusted to control the amount of light and privacy in a room. They are available in a range of colors and opacities, from sheer to semi-sheer, and can be operated with a cord or a motorized system. Sheer shades provide a delicate and romantic look that can add elegance to any space.
Drapery/Curtains: Drapery or curtains are a classic and timeless option for window coverings. They are made of a single piece of fabric that can be hung from a rod or track to control the amount of light and privacy in a room. They are available in a range of colors, patterns, and styles, and can be made with a variety of fabrics, from sheer to blackout. Drapery or curtains provide a traditional and elegant look that can be customized to match any decor style.
Buying Process
Measuring for Custom Blinds & Shades
Accurate measurements are crucial for ensuring that your custom blinds fit your windows perfectly. Here are step-by-step instructions on measuring for blinds & Shades.
Gather your tools. You’ll need a measuring tape, a level, and a pencil.
Measure the width of the inside of the window frame and then measure the height of the inside of the window frame.
Measure the depth of the window frame. This is the distance from the inside of the window frame to the outermost point of the frame. You’ll need this measurement to determine if the blind will fit inside the frame or outside of it.
If you want your blinds to fit inside the window frame, subtract 1/4 inch from the width and height measurements to ensure a proper fit. If you want your blinds to hang outside the frame, add at least 1 1/2 inches to the width and height measurements for adequate coverage.
Check for any obstructions in the window frame, such as handles or locks, that may affect the placement of the blind.
Use a level to ensure that the frame is level and plumb. This will help to ensure that the blinds hang evenly and function properly. Repeat these steps for each window you want to measure.
If you’re unsure of how to measure or if you have any questions, don’t hesitate to consult with a professional or the retailer where you plan to purchase your blinds.
Budgeting and Ordering Custom Blinds & Shades
Ordering custom blinds and shades can be an investment in the look and feel of your home. When budgeting, it is important to consider the amount and size of your windows, the materials you want, and any extra features or customization options. You may also want to compare prices and quality across different brands and retailers. It is also important to factor in shipping and installation costs, as well as any potential lead times for production.
Ordering blinds online can be a convenient and cost-effective way to get custom window treatments. We at ClearMax® have researched the best online blinds and shades suppliers to make it easy for you to order them and enhance your home’s style and functionality. See our preferred suppliers below.
