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Window Blinds And Shades Suited To Desert Environments

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In the desert there are two temperatures: hot and hotter. For those looking to beat the sun’s heat, window treatments are a perfect way to reduce in-home temperatures and help reduce or eliminate the need for air conditioning. While the rest of the country is cooling off, you can too with window blinds and shades that have insulating qualities and block against UV rays. We picked a few of our favorite options for desert decorating.

The Top Three Window Blinds and Shades for desert living are as follows:

1. Energy Track 3/8″ Translucent Double Cell Shades: These window treatments have some of the best insulating qualities on the market. They sit on a track to insulate from edge to edge on your windows. While many people associate insulating window blinds and shades with staying warm, they actually help maintain the indoor temperature of a room, whether that’s warm or cold.

If nights are as hot as days, then run air conditioning for a few hours in the mornings and evenings to cool off the home, then close the blinds and turn off the AC to cut down on energy costs. These blinds are also LEED certified. Their thermal performance rating is up to five times higher than a single pane of glass. With a system to seal-in the sides of the window blinds, there is no room for drafts or air leakage.

2. Silver Screen Roller Shades – 4%: Roller shades let you keep your views of the desert while keeping UV rays out and offering insulating qualities. Silver screen roller shades are coated in aluminum, helping keep the sun’s heat outside where it belongs. The 4% refers to how tightly the material is woven. 4% is a fairly tight weave, which helps provide better insulation.

3. EnviroFusion Textures Linen Shades: Also known for their insulating properties, these are a blend of Roman shades and cellular shades. The liner helps improve insulating qualities while the roman shades filter light and create an elegant atmosphere. The liner hides the cords for a finished look.

Desert living has its own unique challenges. Days can be sweltering while nights cool off. For those who suffer sensitivity to the heat, these blinds are not recommended as a substitute for air conditioning. Stay cool if you need to. However, if you are simply looking to lower the temperature of your home, or block out UV rays, these blinds will definitely do that.

There are a wide selection of colors and styles to choose from. It takes almost no time to install window blinds and shades, so start blocking the sun’s heat, glare and UV rays today!

Want to find out more about window blinds and shades, then visit Blinds Chalet for the best selection on blinds, shades and window treatments.

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Buying Wood Cornices:

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A wood cornice is an additional finish for a window treatment. It sits above a window treatment, shade, blind or drape. The purpose is to enhance the window, create depth and layers and to offer a finished, polished look. Some window treatments come with a standard valance or cornice, however some are offered additionally. These ones tend to have a more decorative flair and are more detailed or intricate in appearance.

While some companies offer a free valance or cornice with the purchase of a particular set of blinds, they are generally a basic structure with not a lot of design. Wood cornices that are sold separately can be as extravagant as you like.

A wood cornice may become the focus of the room, or may enhance a current design. Because they are available in a wide selection of colors and stains, they will work with any interior design, whether modern or traditional, country or ski retreat. While most wood valances and cornices are designed as a compliment to wood blinds, they also dress up any type of material blind.

One brand to consider is the Platinum wood cornice. They are a high-end cornice, as the name implies. The Platinum line comes with a variety of styles to choose from in both 8″ and 9″ heights. For the eight-inch models, you can choose from the Derby, Bristol or Oxford styles. The nine-inch designs include the Bradford, Manchester and Essex models. They all come with a dust cover to help protect them. For larger models that extend past 60 inches, a keystone is included.

Window jewelry is available in different sizes, shapes and colors. Most companies use stains that will blend with furniture or flooring. Painted cornices are also available and come in a variety of colors. Valances and cornices are visually entertaining. They draw the eye in from the larger impression to the intricate details of the design, if you choose to go with an engraved cornice. Some models simply shape the wood into pleasing shapes and curves.

Contrasting colors can also work, or you can use a paint color to match your walls. This creates a subtle enhancement for the room. It gives windows depth and character without overwhelming other elements in the room.

Some cornices come with designs engraved into them, others have patterns and some are simply contoured wood. Some more popular designs include layers of carved wood that can mimic pinecones, acorns, delicate swirls, circular patterns and more. The more intricate the design is the higher the price tends to be.

Any place that offers window treatments, blinds or drapes should also carry wood cornices. However, there’s always the on-line option. Order through a reliable company and you can have your wood cornices delivered to your door with free shipping. If you need installation instructions, be sure to use a company that has knowledgeable customer service representatives. Head on-line and buy some window dressings for your home.

Looking to find the best deal on wood cornices, then visit Blinds Chalet for the best advice on custom window treatments.

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Affordable Roller Shades

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Everybody likes products that don’t cost a lot but are made with great quality materials. The only way a company can deliver that is by buying the materials in bulk. That’s why you sometimes find blinds for prices that don’t seem real. Roller shades are available for a variety of prices; however buying from a company that has an extensive presence will get you better deals. Roller window treatments are some of the best blinds on the market if you have floor-to-ceiling windows, or windows that get a lot of direct sunlight. They are made is with a sheer weave pattern that is similar to a miniature basket weave. They allow light to come in but not glare and they don’t block views. They keep out UV rays to reduce the temperature in the room. Below are a few of the best most cost effective roller shades on the market:

* Eclipse 5% Roller Shades. Perfect for sun control, light filtering Eclipse 5% Screen Roller Shades create a more comfortable environment. Solar screen shades are excellent for temperature control, reducing glare, and diffusing light. The shearweave fabric is designed as a screen to block UV rays while not blocking the view. The energy efficient solutions of screen shades are perfect for light control, visibility, and heat reduction!

* Sheer Weave Roller Shades – 14%. Designed to shade and cool a room, house or office with the versatility to roll it up and let light in. Made from Phifer SheerWeave 3000 material these window treatments offer an excellent to superior UV rating when closed.

* Suntec Blackout Vinyl Roller Shades. Blackout blinds block light from a room. They are designed for rooms such as conference rooms where presentations will be going on, home theater rooms or bedrooms where people have a hard time sleeping because of the sunlight.

Slightly more expensive, the following roller shade is one of the best for the environment:

* EcoGreen Roller Shades. These are great for anyone concerned about the environment who is getting ready to re-decorate or is building a new environmentally sound home. EcoGreen Roller Shades are a great addition to any home. They are PVC-free. They have no volatile organic compounds (VOCs). In addition, they are completely recyclable so they don’t clutter landfills. They qualify towards LEED certification and help energy performance, material and resource use and indoor environmental quality.

No matter what size window you have, eco green roller shade are the ideal window treatment to help block the sun’s heat. Roller shades can also be used to add a design element to open cabinets or shelves. The color selection is available in neutral colors so as not to distract from a room’s interior design. Roller shades can be custom made to fit the exact specifications of your windows.

Now that the heat is on, it’s time to get your windows covered. Jump on-line and see what you can find. Some places custom size your blinds in a day or two and with express shipping, you’ll have them in no time. Roller window shades are a great way to enjoy views and feel in touch with the day while they reduce heat and UV rays.

Learn more about roller shades. Stop by Blinds Chalet to find out more about quality discount window blinds, shades, shutters and custom drapery.

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Varieties Of Roman Shades

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There are a plethora of types of and materials that make up roman shades. Roman shades are best known for their opulent feel and touch of elegance and class they bring to a home. They make any room look good and don’t make it feel dated. They help reduce energy bills with their energy efficient qualities. They also block out almost all UV rays. Take a look at some of the most enjoyed roman shades.

1. Light Filtering Roman Shades. These shades are usually made with polyester. They are some of the more basic roman shades available. As the name indicates, their primary purpose is to filter light. They are also soil and dust resistant, which makes them great for kids rooms or playrooms. Because they let light in, they don’t have to be raised and lowered. There are plenty of color options to choose from. Another benefit is they come in a cordless style making them safe for kids and pets.

2. Blackout Roman Shades. Best suited for home theater rooms, these blinds look good while providing a dark, secluded atmosphere. They are great if you have problems sleeping because of the sun coming in through the windows or if you want to watch a movie without glare, or work from home and need a dark space to be creative.

3. Woven Wood Roman Shades. Woven wood roman shades bring the feel of the south pacific to any home. These cheap roman shades cost less than most real wood woven shades. The polyester construction ensures there won’t be any warping or fading, yet to the eye, they appear fragile and delicate. These blinds soften the light that enters a room and are easy to raise and lower. Woven wood shades are also available in a cordless version.

4. Textured Linen Roman Shades. Textured linen roman shades are a lightweight material, which works well for the size of roman shades. These dramatic window treatments add a light and airy accent to rooms. Linen is reminiscent of summer and fresh airy days. Any room will be complimented by linen shades.

5. Satin Roman Shades. Satin roman shades are the epitome of luxury. Their soft sheen adds luster to any room. The color palette works with subtle colors such as Smoky Taupe and Spanish Moss. They weight of the material works best in larger bedrooms, family rooms and studies.

Roman shades are generally manufactured with cords. Therefore, if you have small children or pets you may want to request a cordless version. Most manufacturers offer a cordless variety now and if not, retrofit kits are available to make blinds safe. Discounts can be had on brands when you order from a major on-line retailer. Because they don’t pay for rental space and they generally buy in bulk, they get savings they can pass on to you.

With so many options of fabrics, there’s a roman shade style that fits almost any home. Their timeless look is something that a lot of people appreciate. They filter or block light, keep out the outside elements. They are a great shade for anyone who likes luxury and elegance.

Learn more about custom window shades. Stop by Blinds Chalet to find out more about quality discount roman shades, blinds, shutters and custom drapery.

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Why You Should Buy Light Filtering Blinds

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Light filtering blinds are some of the most versatile blinds on the market. They have the best attributes of Roman Shades, Cellular Shades and Venetian blinds all rolled into one. They are some of the best looking insulating blinds available. They are energy efficient, have style and light filtering qualities.

Another benefit of these light filtering insulating blinds is they are Greenguard Certified for indoor quality. The cells they are built with honeycomb structures to insulating against leaks and air coming in from outside. They also help keep air regulated inside. The light filtering quality lets you diminish the escape of heat during the winter and the hot air that tries to sneak in during the summer. The Venetian blind aspect collapses the cells into slats so you can adjust the blind to let in as much or as little sun as you like.

When closed, they resemble a Roman Shade with a soft fabric material. The pleats fold down and offer a soft, warm feel to rooms. The light filtering ensures there will be no glare on televisions or computers. The UV protection helps keep furniture and fabrics from fading.

These blinds have the best of both worlds. They give excellent light control, they insulate against heat and cold and you get great privacy. The color palette includes shades of neutral colors in order to blend into a room and keep the focus on art pieces or furniture. They may come with a $50.00 rebate depending on the company you purchase them through.

Another option for light filtering blinds is the horizontal fabric shades. They are distinct with a wider pleat than the light filtering blinds. Color options are a little more varied and a little brighter. They are simple to use and don’t weigh a lot, making raising and lowering them easy for any one of an age. The popular way to use them is to keep them closed and just adjust the blinds as needed to control light.

There are a ton of options to choose from including print patterns as well as solid colors. They work best in living rooms, dining rooms and bedrooms. These blinds do have cords so be sure not to use them in rooms where small children or pets play.

There are so many styles and colors, those people looking for insulating blinds don’t need to go any further. They suit the work place as well as homes, apartments and guesthouses.

There are a lot of customers wanting the versatility of a Venetian Blind, while looking for something that will help insulate their homes and help them save on energy bills. These blinds pretty much do it all. Look around for a reliable company that offers quick, reliable service for your window blinds and shades.

Want to find out more about light filtering window shades, then visit Blinds Chalet for the best selection on blinds, shades and window treatments.

categories: roman blinds, cellular shades, wood blinds, window treatments, blinds, shades, window blinds and shades, windows, homes, interior decorating, remodeling

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Aluminum Blinds: Classic In The Industry

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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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The Natural Design Benefits Of Wood Window Blinds

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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.

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Mini Blinds and Much More

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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.

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Roman Shades: Popular Features

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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

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Window Shades Can Make Any House Seem Like Home

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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.

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