Pros and Cons for Different Types of Window Shades

Whether you live in a home, an apartment or own a business, window treatments are a crucial ingredient of your space. They can be an important aesthetic element of your home’s interior design. From a more practical perspective, window treatments provide privacy from the outside world, control how much light enters your space and can even block heat from entering your home. The last feature may be especially useful during hot Arizona summers.

There are several different types of window treatments to choose from and you can weigh their pros and cons to pick the product best suited for your specific needs.

Window treatments and awnings are not mutually exclusive. Most windows with awnings also have window treatments. Awnings aren’t necessarily designed to provide privacy, but they can significantly reduce the amount of heat energy absorbed through your windows and home exterior.

Businesses and homeowners with awnings should think carefully about how their window treatments and awnings can visually complement each other. The truly diverse array of fabric colors and valance styles available from Arizona Awnings makes it easy to create a pairing that works for your home.

Horizontal Blinds

For several years now, horizontal blinds have been one of the most popular window treatment options. This is due in part to their ever-improving functionality, affordability and a diverse array of colors, materials and styles.

The downside of horizontal blinds is that they can be difficult to clean. Moreover, the dust that accumulates on the slats can trigger unwanted allergies.

Vertical Blinds

Because you can open and close them using side to side motion, vertical blinds are good for slider doors and windows that open to the side. They are easy to clean and single slats can be easily replaced if needed.

The main disadvantage of vertical blinds is their rather dated and sometimes bland appearance.

Exterior Shutters

As the name implies, exterior window shutters are meant to cover the outside of your windows. Functional shutters, meaning ones that open and close, help control airflow and can be used to reduce the sunlight and heat that enters your home. They can also help protect windows from debris during windstorms. Their classic look adds plenty of curb appeal to your home’s exterior design.

Roller Shades

If you’re a minimalist, roller shades may be the right option for you. These basic yet practical shades open flat when pulled down and are barely visible when rolled back up. Blackout and light-filtering options are available, which makes these shades a great option for bedrooms.

Because of their contemporary and minimalistic look, they may not match traditional-style home decors.

Honeycomb Shades

They are named after the honeycomb-shaped fabric cells that make up these shades. Since there are no gaps between the cells, honeycomb shades are a good insulation tool and can help keep your home cool in the summer and warm in the winter.

As with horizontal blinds, they can be difficult to clean and harbor dust and other allergy-inducing particles.

Solar Shades

These innovative window treatments allow you to see the outside world while protecting you and your interior from harmful UV rays.

Since these shades don’t have any blackout options, you should probably avoid installing them in your bedroom.

Drapes

These multifunctional window coverings come in many colors, fabrics and styles. They can add character and flair to your home while controlling outside light. Moreover, they are relatively inexpensive and can be washed or dry-cleaned.

Drapes are probably not the best option if you’re looking for ways to insulate your home from excessive heat or you prefer a more casual and no-frills look.

Home and Business Awnings

Like exterior shutters, awnings are installed outside your windows or doors to provide shade from sunlight and reduce your home or business’s heat absorption. The shade makes the inside of your home much darker at certain times of day, which can be a useful feature in the summer.

Awnings are made to last—with adequate care, you may get to enjoy them for five to 10 years or even longer depending on the quality of the fabric.

Explore Arizona Awnings for the Perfect Awnings for Your Phoenix Home or Business

Although window shades can block some light and heat from entering your home, they only provide limited protection. Awnings from Arizona Awnings can reduce the heat absorbed through shaded walls and windows. Our shade structures and patio awnings can also make your outside spaces safe and comfortable year-round.

Discover our versatile residential and commercial awning solutions to find the best option for you.

Call 602-252-3430 for a free estimate.