Alexanian’s Window Coverings Buying Guide

Window Covering Types

Part of what makes a blinds buying guide such as this one necessary is how many window covering possibilities there are today. From blinds to shutters to shades, there are a wide variety of window treatments to explore. Each type has distinct features and benefits that could work well in your home.

Shop by Type

Blinds

Timeless, versatile and durable, blinds come in a variety of styles and colours. Whether you opt for wood, metal, faux wood or another type, these coverings let you adjust lighting, as desired. Even better, they’re easy to clean with minimal dusting over time.

Horizontal Window Blinds

One of the most widely used window coverings, horizontal window blinds are incredibly versatile. Despite their simple design, they can be opened or closed to adjust how much light is let into your space. They also come in various colours and styles.

Wood Blinds

People use living rooms in many ways — as entertainment areas to watch TV, reading nooks, gathering areas with friends, game nights, family hangouts, etc. How you use yours will serve as a guide in selecting window treatments. Cellular shades can improve efficiency. Roman shades give a luxurious feel as well as potential for light-filtering or room-darkening. Solar shades offer UV protection for you and your furniture. Wood blinds look good with almost any décor.

Faux Wood Blinds

If you’re looking for something durable, choose faux wood blinds. Even in wet spaces, they resist water damage from moisture or humidity. Faux wood blinds come in various colours and stains, are less expensive than real wood, and are relatively easy to clean.

Metal Blinds

Typically made from aluminum, metal blinds are low-maintenance and convenient. The metal also makes them great for creating privacy at home. These blinds are versatile, effective at blocking light and available in a wide range of colours to suit your needs.

Mini-blinds

Mini-blinds are distinguished by the size of their slats, which are typically only 1 inch wide or smaller. The narrow slats help the blinds block more light than standard blinds, so they’re a good choice where darkening is a priority. Mini-blinds also offer affordable pricing and easy maintenance.

Vertical Blinds

Vertical blinds are deal for large windows or glass doors, vertical blinds provide a convenient alternative to drapes or curtains. They are available in various materials and offer the adjustability of being angled or closed, as desired.

Shades

Operable via corded or cordless lift systems, Shades are sophisticated window coverings with widespread appeal. From the UV protection of cellular Shades to the opulent feel of Roman Shades, each type is made to provide the perfect finishing touch to a room. There are countless design possibilities to accommodate any decorating taste.

Solar Shades

For a window shade that filters UV rays, controls heat, allows natural light to enter and preserves outdoor views, solar shades are the clear winner. They are a more protective alternative to traditional shades. They also enhance the comfort and beauty of a room.

Cellular Shades

Cellular Shades

For strong protection against UV rays, cellular shades are a good choice. Also known as honeycomb shades, they come in various levels of opacity and are available in horizontal and vertical designs. Cleaning them is as simple as dusting or wiping regularly.

Roman Shades

Beloved for their overall luxurious look and feel, Roman shades are incredibly versatile, available in everything from high-end fabric to room-darkening vinyl. This option offers privacy and style. When closed, a Roman shade elegantly lies flat; when open, it stacks into a tailored, attractive set of folds.

Roller Shades

Roller shades offer a way to cover your window when you want privacy yet reveal all of the window’s beauty when you don’t. Available in a wide variety of designs and materials, they can be as opaque or sheer as you like. Their neutral appearance complements anything and lets the rest of the room’s decorating shine.

Pleated Shades

Pleated shades are made from one layer of fabric, without any of the slats found in cellular shades. They’re affordable, attractive and let in light. At the same time, they don’t offer the same privacy level as other window coverings; they would need liners to do so.

Shutters

Shutters can be an elegant version of blinds — streamlined, classic and durable. Available in vinyl, composite or wood, they are ideal for blocking light while still letting in fresh air. Their diverse materials make it possible to find a look that’s right for your décor.

Vinyl Shutters

Vinyl shutters last through changing temperatures, humidity levels and usage. They provide an attractive, tailored appearance, while still being low-maintenance and resilient to damage. Vinyl shutters are available in many sizes, styles and designs.

Composite Shutters

Also known as faux wood shutters, composite shutters are made from engineered wood. They provide the warm look of wood but in a sturdy, durable package.

Wood Shutters

Traditional and timeless, real wood shutters offer an impressive look and feel. They’re strong, beautiful, and able to be created in many sizes and shapes. Even better, wood shutters can be painted or stained to match your décor.

Cornices

Many people like window cornices for the finished, custom look they give a room. Built to the window’s specifications, each one can be painted or stained to match the other coverings. As such, they can enhance and accessorize windows perfectly.

How to Measure

Inside Mount

1. Find the narrowest width of the frame. Measure across the inside of the window frame in various places to make sure you find the smallest distance. This is the number to use.

2. measure the inner height of your frame in different places to find the longest distance. This is your basic height measurement. If there’s a sill on your window, subtract ¼ inch from your number, to have it end just before the sill. If there’s no sill, consider how far you want the covering to go.

Outside Mount

1. Measure across the window of the frame, from one end to the other. Also, think about how much overlap you would like, and add that to your measurement.

2. Measure from top to bottom of your window — outside the frame. This should be from where you want the top of the shade to go, down to the sill or area where you want the treatment to stop. Add 3 inches for overlap. For vertical blinds, use the smallest number instead.

We have professionals waiting to help you with measuring and installation, contact us at 1-866-878-2525 or book a Shop-at-Home appointment.

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