Difference Between Blinds, Shades, and Shutters!

Window coverings or window blinds have been used for a long time now. Some traces of these take us back to ancient Chinese and Egyptian cultures. Therefore, we can conclude that window treatments have always been very necessary for various reasons. They can make a lot of difference in the room.

There are two ways to work on the window coverings in Toronto – customized treatments or shop readymade. Experts recommend the former as it cuts down the risk of error. Before deciding on the treatments, understand your requirements. While considering this, also check the purpose of the room/s. We will get into the details of these points as we discuss functional differences of various window treatments.

Whether you want blinds, shades, or shutters for your windows is completely a personal choice. But make sure you research and read about the functional differences of the various types of window treatments available. This information would guide you well to select the one that fits best for your windows.

Difference Between Blinds, Shades, and Shutters!

Blinds

Window blinds are considered to be the most economical of all types of window coverings available in Toronto. These are simple window coverings which have a series of thin, narrow pieces of wood, metal, or plastic overlapping each other. These pieces are known as slats. The material used to prepare blinds with slats is mostly wood or metal. Hence, they are known as ‘hard’ window treatments.

Blinds are available in various shapes and styles. Their distinguishing feature is the vertical and horizontal slats. To enhance the level of privacy, some designs use fabric to overlap the structure. Designs also include a cord which is located on the side of the blinds. It helps in the up and down adjustment process.

The slats make the cleaning process a bit difficult, yet, blinds are very common for window coverings in Toronto. The durability of the window blinds will depend on the materials used and how well they are taken care of.

Shades

Window shades are another type of covering you may choose. They can be opened and closed.

Although stylish, shades are budget-friendly options. Designer shades are also available for people who can spend more to add some visual allure to the room emphasizing the existing décor. Shades are also known as ‘soft window covering treatments’.

There are three types of shades which are more common – roman shades, cellular shades, & roller shades are the ones which can be pulled down to cover the windows. Roman shades are like drapery panels falling in stylish folds. Cellular shades are more energy efficient. They are made of pleated chambers.

Bottom-up and top-down are functionalities of shades. You can lower the shades from the top or bottom, maintaining the amount of light and privacy required in the room.

No doubt shades have become increasingly popular in the past few years. They come in various opacity levels. However, for people who wish to have maximum control over light, these won’t work well. Blinds are of a better choice here.

Most of the times, ‘shades’ is also termed as ‘blinds’. Their basic function might be the same, but there is a fundamental difference which separates the two. Blinds are ‘hard window treatments’, while shades are ‘soft window treatments’. Unlike the former, single piece of material is used to make shades which helps in adjusting up and down but not sideways.

Shutters

Shutters are typically the solid coverings. Similar to blinds, they have a series of thin, narrow pieces of wood, metal, or plastic overlapping each other. These are known as slats. A rod is attached to the slats which is used to help rotate the shutter. This feature helps the shutters to be opened and closed easily controlling the amount of light entering the room.

Considered as the most expensive of all window coverings, shutters work great as restraining-device. Popular materials used are vinyl and wood. Shutters are more durable depending on the sturdiness of the materials. In addition to this, they also provide the required levels of privacy and light including enhanced protection from heat or cold during seasonal changes.

Shutters are compared to blinds as there are a lot of similar features. However, it is important to understand that they are different.

Thanks to technology, the adjusting, opening, and closing of these window coverings can be motorized. A remote controls the functioning of these. It is the most efficient and comfortable option, especially for the windows which are not reachable in height. Both traditional and automatic versions are available in the market. You can choose which suits you best.

Now, that you know how window blinds, shades, and shutters are different, you can make an informed choice.
All you need to do is explore our wide range of window coverings in Toronto and choose the product that meets your needs. For more details, please call us at 416-841-1682.

Also Read:

Best Types of Window Blinds and Shades for Natural Lighting