Different Kinds of Window Shades and Their Qualities
While the latest construction and decor trends don’t take windows shades into account, they actually have a lot of advantages. Among those advantages, you can use them to block the sun from directly entering a room as well as the outside heat. In our post today, we’ll fill you in on the different types of window shades and their features.
How many kinds of window shades are there?
Window shades can be divided into two main groups: interior and exterior shades. The shades in the first group are installed in the window frame and those of the second group on the wall (generally speaking).
1. Venetian shades
Venetian shades are very common in offices or studies. Their main feature is easy installation, easy use and durability.
They can come in plastic, aluminum or wood. In addition to normally tilting upwards, they have a rotation system that allows them to open half-way thanks to their horizontal slats. In this manner, you can control how much light comes in.
2. Vertical blinds
In terms of controlling how much light enters a room, vertical blinds are also very practical. The slats in vertical blinds rotate as the ones in Venetian blinds do, but they hang vertically instead of horizontally.
They’re usually made of PVC or aluminum. They come in all sorts of colors.
3. Thermal blinds
These blinds are fabricated in aluminum with rigid insulating polyurethane foam, which allows them to shield homes from the cold of the winter and the heat of the summer.
In addition, thermal blinds also block out outside noise and are perfect for houses or apartments that are next to large, busy roads. Contrary to popular belief, these blinds are light and easy to raise and lower.
4. Roller shutters
These are the most modern type of window shades on the market and when compared to the others, they boast a very interesting quality: they almost completely block out the sun’s rays. This type of window shade could be more useful for homes that don’t have exterior shutters.
On a further note, roller shutters protect the colors and condition of furniture, curtains, fabrics and floors. They come in a diverse range of colors and just like the name suggests, you can roll them up to whichever height you’d like, creating the perfect light for any ambiance.
5. Jalousies
Another type of window shade available these days are jalousies, which are made from a single piece of material without any visible connecting pieces. They’re very durable and resilient.
One of the main features of jalousie blinds is the air circulation that they provide while filtering out light. Consequently, they reduce energy waste (and help you save energy) throughout the year.
Jalousies can open up to 12º and you can easily access the exterior areas for efficient cleaning.
6. Roman shades
While we might begin to think that Roman shades are something of the past because of their name, they’re actually the most modern type of shade in the market.
They’re made with dust and stain-resistant fabric. In addition, they have a rod that slides with the movement of the drawstring.
You can use Roman shades for your entire house or just for some rooms. They’re available in all sorts of colors and designs so you can match them to any decor.
7. Shoji blinds
Shoji blinds are truly beautiful and original. You can use them as both sliding or window doors. These blinds work by using a track that allows the panels to slide left and right (or vice versa), thus controlling the amount of light that enters a room.
We advise that you only use Shoji blinds if your room has more of an Asian or modern style.
8. Wooden blinds
Last but not least, wooden blinds are also a great option for decor while being a wonderful light and sound insulator.
They might not look very economical, but they are quite affordable and add a lovely touch to any setting.
Keep in mind that you need to take care and clean wood periodically to keep it in good condition and to prevent it from attracting dust or germs.