Collection: Window Blinds and Shades

Understanding Different Kinds of Window Blinds & Window Shade Styles

When one first begins shopping for window treatments, it seems simple: just choose between a curtain or blind, pick a colour, and you're good to go. However, when you start to look into the different types of window blinds and shades available, the process can become overwhelming.

But don't worry – we are here to help. We'll break down the different types of window treatments available, and will provide guidance on how to choose the right style for your home.

Let's dive in!

Check out our tips on How to Match Curtains and Blinds here!

Venetian Blinds

The history of Venetian blinds stretches all the way back to the 1760s in Persia when travellers from Venice saw the innovative design and brought the concept back home. Venetian blinds are made of horizontal blind slats that can be rotated to control the amount of light coming into a room.

These blinds are considered a classic style and are available in a variety of materials, including faux wood, real wood, metal, and plastic. They are also one of the most affordable light filtering options on the market.

Roller Shades

Unlike Venetian blinds, roller shades are made up of one solid piece of material. The shade can be made from a variety of materials, including fabric, vinyl, or bamboo.

Roller shades are a great option for rooms with large windows, as they can cover the entire window and provide privacy and insulation. They are an incredibly affordable window covering solution.

Pleated Shades

Though less common than other window treatments, pleated shades are a great option for rooms that require extra insulation or privacy. As the name suggests, these shades are made up of pleated panels that can be opened and closed to control the amount of light entering the room.

The material used to make pleated shades can vary, but they are typically made from a heavy-duty fabric that is resistant to fading and dirt.

Vertical Blinds

Vertical-style blinds saw their popularity peak in the '90s, but many homes still feature this unique window treatment. Vertical blinds are made of long, thin panels that can be opened and closed to control the amount of light entering a room.

Vertical blinds are a great option for large windows and sliding glass doors, french doors, or patio doors, as they can cover a large area quickly and easily. Many people also like the sleek, modern look that vertical blinds provide.

Mini Blinds

While normal blinds cover the full width of your window, mini blinds are much narrower. They are typically made of metal or plastic, and are a popular choice for small windows.

These blinds are most often used for windows that open outward on either side. People who want to create a uniform look throughout their home often choose to install mini blinds on all of their small windows.

Panel Blinds

If you are looking to create a contemporary, yet minimalist look in your home, panel blinds may be the right light control choice for you. Panel blinds are made of a series of wide fabric panels that can be opened and closed to control the amount of light entering a room.

Not to be confused with vertical blinds, panel blinds are much thinner in fabric and wider in shape. They are a popular choice for large windows and sliding glass doors.

Outdoor Blinds

In homes where the outdoors is a pleasant place to relax, outdoor blinds are a popular choice for keeping the sun and bugs at bay. Outdoor blinds are typically made of a sturdy fabric or metal, and can be opened and closed to control the amount of light entering your home.

Outdoor blinds are perfect for use on patios, decks, and porches, and can be installed in a variety of shapes and sizes.

Cellular Shades

Like pleated shades, cellular shades are made of crisply pleated material. The main difference between the two is that cellular shades are made of a honeycomb-shaped material, which gives them their namesake "cellular" look.

This unique design helps to trap air inside the cells, which provides insulation and noise reduction for your home. Cellular shades are a popular choice for energy-efficient homes, and are available in a variety of colours and styles.

Roman Shades

In Ancient Rome, the Romans began draping wet, heavy fabric over their windows to keep the sun out and the cool air in. This tradition led to a window treatment that is still popular today – Roman shades.

Roman shades are made of a heavy fabric that can be opened and closed to control the amount of light entering your home. Some styles can be pulled up into a soft, billowy stack when they are not in use, while other styles fold up like a traditional shade. 

Sheer Shades

Some people like to block harsh sunlight without completely obscuring the view outside their window. For these people, sheer shades are the perfect option.

Sheer shades are made of a thin, translucent fabric that allows light to pass through while still providing some privacy. They are a popular choice for bedrooms and other rooms where you want to be able to see outside but still maintain a level of privacy.

Honeycomb Shades

Honeycomb shades are one of the most popular types of window shades. They are made of a honeycomb-shaped material that helps to trap air inside the cells, providing insulation and noise reduction for your home (see Cellular Shades).

Zebra Blinds

As window treatments have become more popular, homeowners have begun to seek out unique and interesting styles. One of the most innovative window treatments on the market today is zebra blinds.

Zebra blinds are made of two types of fabric – one that is sheer and one that is opaque. They rotate around two rollers, giving you the ability to control how much light enters your home while still maintaining a stylish look.

Top Down, Bottom Up

Top down, bottom up shades are shades that can be opened from the top or the bottom, giving you more control over the light entering your home. They are perfect for rooms with multiple windows, as they allow you to open only the windows that you want without having to open them all.

Custom Blinds

The final window treatment option is a fully customised blind. This type of blind can be made to fit any window in your home, no matter the size or shape. You can also change the fabric or material, the colour, the style, and the opening and closing mechanisms.

Custom blinds are the perfect option for people who want a window treatment that is unique and specific to their home.

Blackout Shades or Room Darkening Shades

Depending on your room darkening needs, you will want to consider whether to use blackout shades or room darkening shades. The two are commonly confused – but believe it or not, they are not the same thing!

Blackout shades are designed to completely block all light from entering a room. They will often have a layer of foam or vinyl to ensure all light is eliminated, and the only light coming through the window will be through accidental openings or cracks on the sides of the shade.

Room darkening shades, on the other hand, will reduce the amount of light that enters a room but are not 100% effective in eliminating all light. Some people prefer this, as it leaves a slightly more natural light in the room. Room darkening shades are typically made with a heavier fabric than blackout shades, and some have a liner to help reduce light.

Control Style

Another consideration when choosing your window treatment is how you want to control it. Let's look at the three most common control styles:

Cordless Control

With cordless control, there are no cords to operate the window treatment. This style is operated by a wand that is attached to the window treatment.

Corded Control

Corded blinds and shades are incredibly common. You open and close the blinds using a cord loop or chain that hangs down from the top of the window treatment.

Motorised Control

Motorised blinds and shades are operated by a motor that is attached to the window treatment, giving you the ability to open and close them with the touch of a button.

Keep in mind that motorised blinds may be more expensive, but are the safer option for children and pets. Cords pose a potential choking hazard and can wear out over time.

Blinds Based on Material

Once you have decided on your treatment style and control style, it's time to think about the type of material you want your blinds or shades to be made out of. The most common types are:

Faux Wood Blinds

Due to their natural wood look and low price point, faux wood blinds are one of the most popular types of window treatments. Faux wood blinds are made out of a composite material that looks like wood, but is more durable and easier to care for.

Metal/Aluminium Blinds

Metal and aluminium blinds are a popular choice for people who want a sleek, modern look in their home. These blinds are made out of metal and can come in a variety of finishes, including chrome, brass, or nickel.

Paper Shades

Paper shades are a budget-friendly option that are perfect for people who want to keep their windows mostly uncovered. The shades are made out of a lightweight paper material and can be easily folded up when not in use.

Fabric Blinds

Fabric shades and blinds come in a variety of fabrics, including cotton, linen, synthetics, and silk. People often choose fabric shades and blinds for their natural look and feel.

Bamboo Blinds

Finally, bamboo blinds are the perfect option for people who want a natural, eco-friendly window treatment. Bamboo blinds are made out of bamboo, a renewable resource, and can be easily customized to fit any window size.

No matter which fabric you choose, ensure that you take note of the area you will be using it in and the durability it requires. Outdoor blinds should always be made of a weatherproof material, for instance, and wood shades should be avoided in bathrooms due to the dampness.

Mounts

It's now time to choose how your treatment will be mounted, which can be done in one of two ways:

Inside Mount

An inside mount means that the window treatment will be mounted inside of the window frame. You can choose to have the treatment cover the entire window or just the glass.

Outside Mount

An outside mount means that the window treatment will be mounted on the outside of the window frame – so it might sit on the wall above the window or hang down from the top of the window.

The mount you choose really depends on the look you're going for and the type of window treatment you choose.

Blinds FAQ

What are the benefits of window blinds?

Window blinds have a variety of benefits, including energy efficiency, privacy, and noise reduction. They can also help to protect your furniture and carpets from the sun's damaging UV rays.

What is the best type of window blind for kids?

The best type of window blind for kids is a cordless faux wood blind. This style is best for child safety because there are no cords to operate the blind and the material is durable and easy to care for.

What is the most durable type of blinds?

The most durable type of blinds is a metal or aluminium blind. These types of blinds are made out of a strong metal and can withstand everyday use.

Which type of window blind is best?

The best type of window blind for you depends on your needs and preferences. Some of the most popular types include faux wood blinds, metal/aluminium blinds, paper shades, fabric blinds, and bamboo blinds.