The Subtle Differences Between Blinds and Shades

Many homeowners around the globe are confused when thinking of blinds and shades, and it is understandable that most people think the two terms mean the same thing, when in actual fact, there are subtle differences. For those who are not yet clear on this, here is a definitive explanation that will enlighten you as to the differences between blinds and shades.

Blinds

For a screening unit to be classified as a blind, it would have either vertical or horizontal slats, which allow for fine control over lighting. The range of materials that can be used in extensive, and includes the following:

• Timber
• Aluminium
• Fabric
• Composites

Styles are also varied, and the mechanism used to raise or lower the blinds have also changed over the years. Initially, they would operate using a series of pulleys and a rope, yet these can present a risk of strangulation for children and pets. Modern units can be cordless, and some larger units can also be motorised, for easy adjustment. If, for example, you are looking for excellent quality vertical blinds in the UK, there are online suppliers of made to measure units that are guaranteed to please. Blinds are much preferred over traditional screening, such as curtains, as one has a much finer control over light and seclusion by adjusting the angle of the slats. Many people prefer vertical blinds, as they do not gather as much dust and are generally easier to keep clean, and with composite materials, a wipe with a damp cloth is all it takes to keep the blinds looking like new.

Shades

Shades are termed as “soft window coverings” and are typically made of fabric. The shades can be raised or lowered, as with a blind, yet there are no slats, rather the fabric (or other material) is a single piece. There are many styles of shades, some that pleat and fold as they are raised, while the majority are roller operated, for easy adjustment. Shades offer the homeowner an effective way to block out all sunlight, and the range of materials used allow for matching with the existing décor. Although there are no slats, the shade can be adjusted by raising or lowering and with modern versions, you can stop the shade at any point, which gives you a certain degree of adjustment, but if you really want the perfect system for light control, blinds are the way to go.

If fine control over lighting is not essential, shades offer the ideal screening solution, and with either a single colour or pattern, one can select something that matches the décor of the room. Blinds, on the other hand, do give you more choices with respect to how much light you block out, and with a choice of either horizontal or vertical slats, blinds are considered very effective for domestic screening. There are online suppliers of both shades and blinds, and the perfect way to order is made to measure units, which are certain to fit perfectly.

Most online suppliers have a guide to precise measuring, and if you follow the instructions to the letter, you are sure to have the perfect size. For customized blinds that are sure to fit and can be installed for you, contact The Blinds Source, a window treatment installer.