What are the differences between shades, blinds and shutters?

Some people know they want to cover their windows, protect their furniture, increase security of their home or enhance the beauty of their living space. The question that then arises is “how do I find the right window treatments for my needs.” In a previous series on “How Do I Choose The Right Window Treatments” we discussed three important questions one needs to think about. Once one has thought about these questions and begins the process of looking at products, one needs to know the pro’s and con’s of each possible solution.

The category of window treatments that includes window shades, window blinds and shutters is known as hard window treatments. This name distinguishes this category from soft window treatments such as draperies and curtains.

What are Window Shades?

Window shades consist of fabric that is rolled, stacked or folded. These types of window treatments are sometimes categorized as soft window treatments as tehy are made of fabric. Some window shades do allow for a view through when the shade is rolled up. Other window shadings, such as Hunter Douglas Pirouette Shadings allow for view through while the shade is down, not the picture to the left. Window shades include: Roller Shades, Woven Shades, Cellular Shades, Pleated Shades, Solar Shades and Roman Shades.

What are Window Blinds?

Window blinds have louvers which allow you to open to a view without lifting the shade.  It allows you to manipulate the light to create a customized feel.  The name blinds came from the fact that they block one from seeing into your home, it essentially “blinds the observers view.”  Over the past few years, many new options and designs have developed including anti-dust features and fabric tapes for blinds.  Types of blinds include:  Wooden Blinds, Faux Wood Blinds, Aluminum Blinds.

What are Indoor Shutters?

Shutters are usually installed into the window frame and are horizontal slats, either made of wood or a poly resin that can either be stationary or tilt.  They do not move up and down like blinds but in certain applications can fold across the window.  Types of Shutters include: Wood Shutters and Poly resin Shutters.