Common Mistakes to Avoid When Ordering Custom Blinds

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Ordering Custom Blinds
Window blinds are an essential element of the home we can sometimes take for granted. While they can work as a lovely bit of décor, they are more than a pretty face for your windows. Rather, their function is fundamental, not only in providing home dwellers with privacy, but also allowing us to control light and radiation levels that can affect inside temperature. This, as well as their ability to better insulate the home, makes a large impact on energy efficiency and electric spending. Though blinds are essential, ordering them can be challenging if you don’t take into account components that can sometimes slip through our thought process when ordering blinds.

Be Knowledgeable


You should always know what you are getting yourself into before purchasing anything. Blinds are no different, so before putting in any credit card information, read up on the item. Look at reviews. Read about the details and the added features that may otherwise escape unnoticed.
Pay extra attention to how they will be displayed and operated. Do they come with various cords that could potentially be hazardous for curious children and pets? This is the last thing you would want for your blinds, so figure out which types will work best for your household.

Where and Why?


When ordering blinds you must first consider what function, or functions, they are intended to provide. For instance, are you looking for a window treatment that provides both privacy as well as durability for the bathroom? If so, you would want to steer clear of blinds made of real wood so that they don’t become warped and bowed over time. Instead, opt for faux wood. The last thing a homeowner wants is money going down the drain (no pun intended), so it’s important to take these things into account beforehand.

Consider Light Filtration


Unlike shades, which are comprised of a single piece of fabric that can be customized to create a sheer to blackout effect, blinds have a bit less wiggle room as far as light filtration is concerned. Blinds contain slats that move up and down to adjust the amount of light entering the room. When opened, you are provided with a more direct view and maximum light; however, the one possible drawback is that not all blinds are unconditionally light tight, especially if you have east- or west-facing windows. Even when they are completely closed, angled up or down, some light will slip through the individual slats. For those who need a pitch-black room to gain proper sleep, look into room darkening blinds.

Not Taking the Proper Measurements


This is probably the most common mistake when ordering blinds, and one that can’t always be easily remedied. It is pertinent that you take the correct measurements so that your blinds don’t end up too large and extending way beyond the opening, or too small and hanging in the center of your window like a matted picture. You must first decide whether or not you want inside or outside mounts. Inside mounts are placed inside the window frame and installed under the upper casing, as shallow or as deep as you prefer. This option better insulates the window and offers a cleaner appearance, unable to obstruct any decoration the outside frame may possess. In this event, measurements will follow the width, or just under, so that the blinds don’t get jammed inside the frame, as well as the length of the inner frame. Meanwhile, outside mounts will be installed on, or outside, the frame. Measurements will take place from one groove, where the outer frame meets the wall, to the other or even further if you choose to extend the blinds for an elongated effect. Ultimately, the choice between the two depends on what you want out of your blinds.

Spending on Installation


It makes zero sense to spend on professional installation when installing blinds is so simple. Although it may seem a bit intimidating for those of us who don’t know the difference between a slotted or Phillips head screwdriver, these days all you need is a few minutes and the directions.

When deciding on the right blinds for your home, there are a lot of things to consider, so don’t jump the gun and order the first ones you find aesthetically pleasing. If you only take a moment to research and realize everything you are looking for, the results can last you–and your home–a lifetime.

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