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Window treatments are an important element in interior design. They have many undeniable and imperative features that can shape the ambiance and comfort of your home. Window coverings not only control light and air circulation, but they also save energy costs and protect you from harmful rays of the sun.
Blinds, shades, curtains, drapes, shutters, and valances are all types of window coverings that can be used to enliven a window. In this article, we will talk about blinds and curtains because they are more popular among homeowners, especially in Canada. Both provide numerous benefits over other window treatments.
For example, you can camouflage an entire outside view while still enjoying sunlight in the winter. Depending on your needs, you can choose from hard to soft window coverings. Window coverings in Canada, made from materials like wood or vinyl are hard, while fabric and textile window treatments are soft.
Difference Between Blinds and Curtains: Which Is Better?
Many homeowners are confused when it comes to choosing between blinds and curtains. Are they interchangeable or do they provide the same function? These are common questions for the average homeowner. So, which window treatment is right for you? Take a look below at the comprehensive breakdown of the difference between curtains and blinds.
Maintenance
If easy maintenance is your top priority, then blinds should be your number one option. When it comes to cleaning window coverings, blinds are easy to dust off with a piece of cloth or soft brush. In case of any stain, you can simply wash the spot with any liquid detergent. This makes them suitable for high-traffic areas like living rooms and kitchens.
On the contrary, curtains need to be cleaned by washing machines or manually. You first need to remove them from the rod, then wash them in the washer. After cleaning, they need to be dried and then re-installed. This can be a tedious task for busy professionals. Although curtains only need to be dusted every 2-3 months, it can still be tiring, especially for a person living alone.
Aesthetics
Everyone has different taste when it comes to design, style, and color. Some people prefer a minimalist look, while others want modern and luxurious window coverings. In terms of the versatility of fabric, texture, and color, curtains come in better options. You can buy curtains in floral prints, stripes, and different shapes.
In comparison, you don’t have as much creative freedom with blinds. Blinds are still aesthetically pleasing and can give a sophisticated and elegant touch to your room, but they lack in design and artistic expression. So if you want to give your home a luxurious and magnificent look, curtains are the better option.
Functionality
If you are more interested in the practical aspects of window coverings, such as blocking UV rays, filtering light, and maintaining privacy, then blinds are the winner. Due to their functionality, they are not only popular in residential areas but also in commercial areas such as offices, media offices, and department stores.
Window blinds like zebra and blackout roller blinds are made with dual-quality fabric so you can control the amount of light. On the other hand, curtains play their role well when you are considering decorative essentials and cozier ambience in your space.
Pricing
One of the important factors that can help you decide between curtains and blinds is the budget. Both curtains and blinds come in a wide variety of price ranges. Curtains are more expensive than blinds, in general. The cheapest curtains would still be more expensive than the premium blinds. If you have a small apartment and want to cover the windows, blinds like faux wood and zebra are the best options.
They come in affordable pricing with multiple options in colors. However, if you want to purchase curtains, the most economical pair of curtains would cost you $300. It totally depends on your choice and the factors you are considering, such as customization, design, light control, and noise cancellation.
Safety
Security and safety are another key factor, especially if you have kids and pets. Blinds come in two types of operating mechanisms: corded and cordless. Cordless blinds are also called motorized blinds in Canada. So if safety is your top priority and you have kids and pets, you can choose motorized blinds. They are easy to operate and give your home a smart home touch.
Conversely, curtains do not come in motorized options, but they are safer. So in terms of safety, it totally depends on you to choose between blinds and curtains. If you want to decorate your house and have large windows, curtains are the ideal choice for you.
Durability
Resistance to factors such as moisture, weather, scratches, insects, and stains determines the durability of any window covering. Whether it’s blinds or curtains, if it has the strength to withstand different environmental factors, then it is the best option. Considering blinds, their lifespan ranges from 6-8 years if kept in good shape and with frequent maintenance.
On the contrary, curtains can last up to 10 years if they are made from the best quality materials. It is possible for a curtain not to last more than 3 years if it is woven with cheap fabric. On the other hand, a blind with polyester and PVC material can last up to 8 years. So the pro tip is always to look for the fabric and composition of the material before buying any window covering.
FAQ
Can blinds be installed on irregularly shaped windows?
Yes, there are pre-built designs of blinds for irregular windows, such as arches or bay windows. If a pre-built design is not available, you can customize your blind.
Is it easy to maintain blinds?
Blinds are relatively easy to maintain. You can dust them off twice per week with a soft cloth. Avoid using harsh cleaning methods, such as bleach or ammonia, as these can damage the blinds.
Do blinds provide privacy in the daytime?
Yes, there are blinds such as blackout blinds that provide complete privacy while also allowing light to enter.
Can blinds maintain the inside temperature of a home?
Yes, blinds can help to maintain the inside temperature of a home. They can help to keep the heat in during the winter and the cool air in during the summer.
Are window blinds child-friendly?
Motorized blinds are one of the safest types of blinds for children and pets. They do not have cords that can be a choking hazard.
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