Curtains Blinds

In the current market one of the most popular combinations is a product that fulfills the basics needs of the consumer and comes at a low/affordable price. When people are experiencing times of decreased incomes as many are in the current recession they tend to turn back to the basics for their purchasing needs. And in the window covering industry the most basic (or classic as many would say) are aluminum blinds.

When people go out in search of window coverings looking for the basics they discover that aluminum blinds cover the bases. The basic needs to typically inspire a search for window coverings or blinds are: light blocking and/or privacy.

When it comes to classics in the window covering industry…aluminum blinds are the undisputable choice. They provide users with ease of operation and they are quite durable. This makes them very advantageous for many. They are a very versatile choice and they come in a variety of sizes (typically from 5/8″ to 1″ to 2″). And to those who are in the market for a “green” product they will appreciate the availability of products that are up to 95% recycled.

They also come with a variety of head rail options. Depending upon the head rail option chosen there may be no need for an additional valance. Some mini blinds are easily paired with other window coverings such as curtains and drapes. They can be an excellent choice for accenting interior design spaces.

Some consumers can be confused by the name; aluminum blinds. The product is not known by one name alone (as if often the case). They are also often referred to as mini blinds. Mini blinds spurs a certain picture in the minds of most consumers that is quite limiting. The actual product is more versatile than most consumers realize. They can be purchased in different sizes. But the average size of mini blinds is smaller than the average size of other horizontal blinds choices.

While aluminum blinds are an indisputable classic in the industry…they have benefited from change as the industry experienced advances benefiting their products. Updates in any industry will result in some general changes that benefit the classic products. But aluminum blinds still offer that classic look, that classic feel and their classic ability to cover all the bases of providing the necessary privacy and light blocking needs with ease.

Chris Stanley is a window treatments expert at Blinds Chalet. Blinds Chalet has more than 25 years of experience in the window coverings industry and strives to educate consumers about purchasing and installing window blinds before they buy. Focusing on high quality, company tested and approved window treatments at affordable prices, Blinds Chalet is a resource for all things window blinds related.

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Do consumers like wood window blinds? No. They don’t like them. They LOVE them. Wood window blinds are a terrific option for many reasons. They enjoy the interest of a very large portion of interested consumers. And people don’t stop at interest alone. They continue along to the purchase because what they found interesting is actually advantageous.

What is it that makes wood window blinds such a popular choice for so many? It could be the uniquely beautiful material. Real wood just looks different than any of the man made materials that can be advantageous for a variety of other reasons. Wood window blinds offer natural beauty and they are able to exhibit stains beautifully. Man made materials can attempt to echo the ability, but none have been able to adequately mimic the full look of real wood yet. Natural wood grain just adds a lot to any design space.

Wood blinds in general are quite strong. They are made of wood, after all. They’re actually one of the strongest products in the window coverings arena. What’s most interesting is that while they are the strongest option; they are also the lightest. It’s a fantastic combination that pulls many into the wood window blinds fan club.

Stain choices are many. This is a definite design advantage and makes wood window blinds an even more versatile choice as they are basically not limited by color. Some designers go so far as to say that wood window blinds add a design element that they call “warmth” that can’t be had from other products because it comes with the natural element of a real wood product.

The warmth available from the installation of wood window blinds is just one of the unique possibilities that wood window blinds offer an interior design space. Some most appreciate the wood grain. Some most appreciate the strength. Some most appreciate the light weight nature of the product. Some most appreciate the stain options. But everyone enjoys having a choice. And design advantages aren’t even the only plus that come with wood window blinds.

The basics are fully covered by the purchase of wood window blinds. They provide adequate privacy. They provide adequate security. They control the view in and out of any home or office window. They provide the needed light blocking features and have the added advantage of being easy to use.

Chris Stanley is a window treatments expert at Blinds Chalet. Blinds Chalet has over 25 years of experience in the window coverings industry and strives to educate consumers about purchasing and installing window blinds before they buy. Focusing on high quality, company tested and approved window treatments at affordable prices, Blinds Chalet is a resource for all things window blinds related.

There are consumers out there who aren’t aware of the choices they have available when it comes to window coverings. When they think of window shades they immediately think of mini blinds; which is fairly normal since they’re a popular choice. What’s not normal (or accurate) is their assumption that mini blinds are the only option. Mini blinds are definitely available, but they are in no way the only option. They aren’t even one of a few. They are one of many options available in today’s market.

Mini blinds are still a good first option. They do everything that the basic window covering is supposed to do. They provide privacy and the offer light control. They are also affordable and easily procured. They don’t usually require any wait times. But never just go with the first option because it’s first. Look around and make sure it’s the best! There are so many options and features in today’s market. Get an idea of what’s available before you go with what you already know.

When consumers move on to consider horizontal wood or faux blinds they find a popular upgrade in the cornice style valance (not available for mini blinds). It adds a bit of elegance to the basic horizontal blind design. Not every horizontal blind product offers the upgrade; it depends upon the manufacturer. But most do offer it and most offer it at no additional cost. The basic, interior mount valance leaves valance clips visible. Since a majority of consumers see the visible valance clips as negative to the overall “look” of the window covering the cornice style valance will continue to be a popular option.

Decorative tape is also a popular option. Decorative tapes cover visible cords in horizontal blinds (excepting mini blinds). They block additional light from leaking through route holes so they also increase function in addition to aesthetics.

Additional features that many consumers find advantageous include: edge binding, 5 inch valances, cassette headrails, routless ladders, etc. The most popular choices when it comes to additional options/features are those that enhance both aesthetics and function.

Again…mini blinds are a great first option. They’re the perfect place to start. And they’re often a great final choice. But making the best final choice means considering all the options starting at the first and moving forward. So never make the mistake of thinking you’ve found the perfect choice without ever considering the competition. Considering all the options makes for a much higher success rate.

Chris Stanley is a window treatments expert at Blinds Chalet. Blinds Chalet has more than 25 years of experience in the window coverings industry and strives to educate consumers about purchasing and installing window blinds before they buy. Focusing on high quality, company tested and approved window treatments at affordable prices, Blinds Chalet is a resource for all things window blinds related.

Installing appropriate, high quality window coverings increases the value and elevates the style of any home or office. Amongst the many options available when it comes to window coverings in today’s market there isn’t a better option than roman shades. Roman shades are quick. They’re easy. And they’re inexpensive. A large portion of designers and consumers choose to install roman shades. They’re popular for several reasons.

1. Firstly, roman shades offer a simple look. They have a minimalist style that is hard to achieve with a lot of window coverings, They have no difficult installation requirements. They require no especially difficult measurements. They require no especially difficult installation techniques. They’re a simple addition with a simple, convenient function.

2. Easy incorporation into room design. Many window coverings fulfill their main function, but they also overshadow the room decor. This is not an issue with roman shades. Roman shades fulfill the function of the window covering and add the perfect accent to design/decor without drawing undue attention that ruins the cohesiveness of the design.

3. Ease of Function. Roman shades are quick and easy. They provide an almost instantaneous solution to privacy and light control issues.

4. Custom Possibilities. Roman shades offer the easiest customization options in the industry. Most window coverings offer custom options and features. But roman shades offer the possibility to incorporate an amazingly wide range of color and pattern options. It’s one of the most versatile window coverings on the market when it comes to accommodating design elements already present in the room.

Fulfilling the basic function of the window covering without disrupting current decor/design of a room is made simple with the roman shades. When it comes right down to it the very simplistic nature of the product makes it the option for many. They offer privacy, light blocking/control, easy installation, streamlined elegance, easy customization, etc. Why wouldn’t they be one of the most popular options in the industry?

Chris Stanley is a window treatments expert at Blinds Chalet. Blinds Chalet has more than 25 years of experience in the window coverings industry and strives to educate consumers about purchasing and installing window blinds before they buy.

categories: Blinds Chalet,discount window blinds,window blinds,window coverings,window,blinds,roman blinds,vertical blinds,horizontal blinds,shades

Giving a vacant home a sense of warmth if easy with appropriate window shades. Window shades are often seen as the perfect solution for home sellers looking to show potential buyers the possibilities. Conservative window shades give the vacant home a general ambience of life. They give the buyer the chance to see the house’s potential as a home.

Sellers find that the purchase and installation of quality, conservative window shades makes a big difference in the sale of a home in any housing market. But in the midst of a rough economy and an even tougher housing market…window shades are vital. Any experienced agent will urge home owners to take advantage of the edge that the proper presentation will provide in selling a home. Window shades in particular change the state of the game from empty house for sale to potential home available for buyer consideration.

Home sellers looking to purchase window shades should always aim for conservative products. Attempting to “stand out” in a tough market with “unique” window coverings is a terrible idea. It’s much better to offer a classy, conservative look with a well accepted product. This will please the largest group of potential buyers while the “unique” look will have to wait for a buyer with similar design tastes.

Some good options when it comes to classy, conservative window shades options include: faux wood horizontal blinds, horizontal wood blinds, roman shades, etc. Always stick to neutral colors/shades. In smaller spaces avoid darker colors. It will increase the room’s sense of smallness. Good color choices include: tan, white, off white and cream.

You can also take into consideration the other permanent color choices in the room: walls and woodworking. But don’t feel as if matching the stain on the woodworking is a requirement. Sometimes darker stains can be overwhelming and adding more dark stain would be the wrong choice.

Don’t forget that potential buyers don’t always have a lot of imagination. Home sellers need to sell their home. This means that sellers need to point out the possibilities. One way this can be accomplished is through a savvy window shade installation.

Chris Stanley is a window treatments expert at Blinds Chalet. Blinds Chalet has over 25 years of experience in the window coverings sector and strives to educate consumers about purchasing and installing window blinds before they buy. Focusing on high quality, company tested and approved window treatments at affordable prices, Blinds Chalet is a resource for all things window blinds related.

Recalls due to safety concerns have been underway for years when it comes to corded window products. The cording poses a definite safety issue to small children. Homeowners and/or landlords that are aware of the frequent presence of small children should make safety considerations a high priority when purchasing window coverings.

1. Check out the window coverings currently installed throughout the house. It doesn’t matter what type of window covering you have in use (roman shades, vertical blinds, horizontal blinds, etc.) Look for any cording that is exposed. Any accessible or visible cords are a definite safety concern. (Don’t forget to check the back of your window covering product for cording, as well).

2. Any exposed cording should be taken care of; get in touch with the manufacturer (vertical blinds, horizontal blinds, cell shades…it doesn’t matter. Manufacturers are aware of the issue and will have an appropriate response). When you call or email the manufacturer request a retro-fit kit. They are typically free of charge and they include everything necessary to take care of the potential threat to small children posed by visible/accessible cording.

3. The best solution is replacement. If the option is viable financially homeowners and landlords alike are encouraged to remove corded products and replace them with corded options that offer all the same functions and features without the safety concerns. Almost every type of window covering offers cordless options (vertical blinds, horizontal blinds, cell shades, roman shades, etc.)

4. To ensure safety temporarily while searching for a more permanent solution start by tying down any looping cords with hold downs. They can also be cut and tied with a tassel. There should never be large pieces of furniture near window treatments. This increases the probability that a small child could gain access to cording.

If safety issues are identified in relation to window coverings in the home the issue should be addressed immediately. If the retro-fit kit is not accessible through the manufacturer or consumers are having difficulty accessing the manufacturer’s contact information they should contact the Window Covering Safety Council. This organization provides a full range of safety information regarding windows and window coverings and is more than happy to provide retro-fit kits to consumers free of charge. While they provide any and all answers regarding elevating older blinds and window covering products to meet current safety standards…they agree with the industry experts in saying that the safest option is to install cordless products.

Chris Stanley is a window treatments expert at Blinds Chalet. Blinds Chalet has more than 25 years of experience in the window coverings industry and strives to educate consumers about purchasing and installing window blinds before they buy. Focusing on high quality, company tested and approved window treatments at affordable prices, Blinds Chalet is a resource for all things window blinds related.

When consumers are looking for light blocking window coverings the most obvious choice is the traditional vinyl window shades. This particular window covering product is often referred to as the blackout shade for obvious reasons. They have the ability to block out all light allowing for a blackout in an interior space.

Some individuals need to be able to sleep during the day which can be difficult with sunlight shining in the windows. Some families need to be able to put small children down for naps in the middle of the day. And some people are residents of areas that have extra long daylight hours. All of these individuals are very aware of the benefits of vinyl window shades. The light blocking benefits just cannot be surpassed by any other products on the market.

When it comes to interior design there are many who would classify vinyl window shades as a negative addition to an interior space. But they can actually be incorporated into a room very well; providing aesthetics and light blocking. Some of the options that should be considered for vinyl window shades relating to interior design include:

1. Design options for vinyl window shades are ever increasing. This makes it only more likely that they will be able to fulfill both the function they are prized for and the aesthetics that are necessary to compliment the interior design of a space.

2. Modern or minimalist decor schemes require simple, clean window products. Vinyl window shades are the perfect solution.

3. Mixing vinyl window shades with other window covering products makes for a fabulous aesthetic look for the window while allowing home owners to take full advantage of the best in light blocking offered by the industry. Thick drapes over the window can give an elegant look while providing another layer of light blocking as well as an extra layer of insulation.

As more consumers recognize the benefits of vinyl window shades more design options are created so consumers are urged to consider the latest design suggestions and recommendations prior to deciding whether or not they can incorporate vinyl window shades into a space. They offer the utmost in privacy making them the perfect option for bedrooms and bathrooms as well as other areas that benefit from additional privacy and light blocking.

Chris Stanley is a window treatments expert at Blinds Chalet. Blinds Chalet has more than 25 years of experience in the window coverings industry and strives to educate consumers about purchasing and installing window blinds before they buy. Focusing on high quality, company tested and approved window treatments at affordable prices, Blinds Chalet is a resource for all things window blinds related.

Window blinds are a major home purchase. Some see them as an expense that they would like to avoid at all costs. They see them as one more design expense that shouldn’t be necessary, but seems to be required to make the house look right. These people are missing the entire point of window blinds! They’re not just a design expense. They’re more like a drastic home improvement.

Real estate agents with experience in their industry are very aware of the positive effect that window blinds have on the overall curb appeal of a home on the market. These savvy agents are the ones urging their home sellers to purchase and install quality window blinds prior to listing their home on the market. Home buyers may not even be aware of the change window blinds make in a vacant home. But experienced professionals are very aware of the advantages; the installation of window blinds make a quick, profitable sale more likely.

Most consumers recognize the basic need for window blinds. They fulfill certain functions. They ensure privacy. They allow for light blocking and light filtering. Window blinds provide privacy regardless of the size of the window, the placement of the window or the function of the room. And there are a wide variety of products to provide for every desired or necessary level of light blocking/filtering. The need for light blocking/filtering varies depending upon the region as well as the specific lifestyle of the resident. For instance extreme light blocking is especially helpful for people who work at night and sleep during the day or people with small children that require daytime naps.

But the basic function of the window blind or shade is in no way the only thing that makes purchasing window blinds an advantage for most consumers. The design of the window blind doesn’t focus solely on the basic function; they now provide a myriad of other desirable options and features.

Window blinds offer the advantage of additional curb appeal. They make a huge difference to potential home buyers. Due to the added value to the home they should be considered a home improvement; they add substantially to the home. The added value far outpaces the cost of purchase/installation. And energy savings offer an entirely different advantage.

The energy saving features incorporated into many window blinds can consistently save homeowners hundreds of dollars on their utility bill. The availability of an online calculator that estimates the potential energy savings possible through installation of proper energy saving window blinds will lend credibility to any online source for window blinds. And the estimate will clearly show the second reason that window blinds are clearly a home improvement worth the cost. Not only do they add curb appeal, but they can actually result in financial gain through the energy saving features available in many product lines. In the current real estate market there’s some tough competition. The sheer number of available homes for sale can seem staggering. So setting your home apart from the crowd with window blinds is not just smart; it’s necessary.

Chris Stanley is a window treatments expert at Blinds Chalet. Blinds Chalet has over 25 years of experience in the window coverings sector and strives to educate consumers about purchasing and installing window blinds before they buy.

As a homeowner making a window treatment or blinds purchase it’s easy to be overwhelmed by the sheer number of options out there: promotional pricing, options, features, custom design choices, etc. Getting the details right is vital. If consumers aren’t in the know they’ll inadvertently miss details that will end up making a difference in the look and feel of their final product. Homeowners looking to improve the look of their home, increase the curb appeal or increase the value of their home should make window treatment purchasing high priority.

When purchasing window treatments homeowners should take into account the following list of 5 Design Considerations. Doing so will aid them in hitting the main points so they end up with window treatment products (blinds, shades, etc.) that suit their needs and fulfill their intended purpose. While there are many more details to consider during the window blind and/or shade purchase…this partial list will keep consumers on the right track.

1. Interior/exterior design of the home: with all the products available on the market (blinds, shades, etc.) homeowners should be able to find exactly what they’re looking for as they attempt to suit their current design scheme. Accenting your home with your window treatments should be a priority; and it’s a priority that can be met easily in today’s market.

2. You’ve got your own set of priorities; don’t let them get pushed aside during your search for blinds. If pricing is your most important factor…stick to your budget. If you are set on getting the very best energy efficiency products available then don’t look at products that don’t offer this advantage. Know what you’re looking for and look for it.

3. Make sure you’re aware of how long term savings can affect the long term “price” of your blinds or other window treatments. When you are considering energy efficiency products use the available energy savings calculators to estimate what your savings will be monthly or annually so you have some idea of exactly what the long term price of your new window treatments are going to be. It could be that you’ll need to make an initial investment up front that will pay for itself within a fairly short amount of time through energy savings.

4. Consider you and your family’s privacy and security. Some rooms/areas require higher levels of privacy and/or security. For instance, you’ll want full coverage possible in bedrooms and bathrooms (especially those on the first floor). Consider the design of your home and how you utilize your interior space so you can appropriately decide which areas need to have low levels of “privacy” and which require complete “privacy.” This will make a big difference in the type of window covering your choose: shades, blinds, etc.

5. Safety is always an issue. Many industry experts suggest that all consumers stick to cordless purchases for safety reasons. The corded varieties pose a safety risk to small children as they can become entangled in the dangling cords that operate the blinds or shades. If you have small children or have frequent visits from small children you will definitely want to restrict your purchases to cordless varieties.

Buying window treatments or blinds can increase the value of your home. It can increase your satisfaction with your home. It can drastically improve the look of your home. It can decrease energy expenses for the long term. And the list could go on. There are so many benefits possible; don’t miss out on any because you didn’t give the decision the time it deserved. Know what to look for and then don’t settle for anything less.

Chris Stanley is a window treatments expert at Blinds Chalet. Blinds Chalet has over 25 years of experience in the window coverings industry and strives to educate consumers about purchasing and installing window blinds before they buy. Focusing on high quality, company tested and approved window treatments at affordable prices, Blinds Chalet is a resource for all things window blinds related.

Without extensive knowledge and experience making the right choice when it comes to a blinds or shades purchase can be difficult. A lot of consumers go into the search without a definite picture of what they’re actually looking to find. Others go into the with an idea of what they’re looking for, but they are still often distracted by the many options and features available in today’s products.

When those same consumers look back after they’ve made their final purchase they realize that each feature and each option actually had a specific purpose. Knowing the purpose for each option makes applying the possible effects to an individual situation much easier. And being able to apply the product’s specific features to an individual situation makes it much more likely that buyers will find long term satisfaction with their purchase.

Most upgraded options or special features can be placed into one of four main groups. The groups can be easily described as: privacy and/or light control, safety, function and appeal. Before the search for new blinds or shades begins each of the groups should be assigned a number that would indicate the priority it will be given during the search.

One of the most popular features in the light control/privacy category is the top down, bottom up feature. This particular feature provides owners with a unique light control ability. The light blocking can be adjusted throughout the day depending upon the needs of the household or office. This category is particularly important to those who require daytime sleep or those who live in regions that experience prolonged daylight hours.

The most popular safety feature currently available is cordless. And cordless isn’t just available here and there on a random, undesirable product. It’s available in almost every common blinds or shades product on the market. This feature eliminates all safety hazards created by visible cording. A popular feature in the function category is remote control. A popular feature in the appeal category is extensive color, stain and/or fabric choices.

Consumers who are aware of the basic divisions of options/features are much more likely to see straight through the sometimes overwhelming mass of available products to the one or two products that suit their needs the most adequately. And finding the shades or blinds that suit the specific needs of the room or home in question will lead to a long term satisfaction with the investment.

Chris Stanley is a window treatments expert at Blinds Chalet. Blinds Chalet has more than 25 years of experience in the window coverings industry and strives to educate consumers about purchasing and installing window blinds before they buy. Focusing on high quality, company tested and approved window treatments at affordable prices, Blinds Chalet is a resource for all things window blinds related.