Blinds and curtains are the go-to window treatments for providing shade from daylight. But which shading solution is better? This article discusses four reasons why blinds could be the best way to cover a window and prevent light from coming through.

1. Daylight shading

Blinds have the upper hand in blocking light because they are installed much closer to the windowpane than curtains. Their positioning means that blinds let less light through because the gaps are smaller.

For example, a roller blind can be positioned very close to the glass, ensuring minimal light enters the room. In contrast, most curtains are less effective because they bunch together, creating numerous gaps where light can slip through.

Cassette blinds can be fitted with side channels which hold the fabric in place and ensure that there are no gaps in the system for light to travel through. Coupled with a piece of blackout fabric, you’re guaranteed complete darkness. On the other hand, it’s more challenging to achieve total darkness using curtains because most of them are pleated, which lets small amounts of light through.

2. The type of window matters

You’d be surprised how many types of windows you’d find if you explored a range of properties. Some buildings have overhead windows or skylights, while others have windows installed on an angled wall. Curtains would not be suitable for these awkwardly placed windows because gravity would pull the material down.

Instead of having a curtain hanging down, blinds can be installed with the side channels we mentioned earlier. The blind side channels ensure that the fabric stays in place and the desired level of shading is achieved.

3. More ventilation

On a hot day, it’s crucial to get ventilation, particularly in countries such as the UK, where most buildings are not air-conditioned. Consider a teacher in a school who needs to open the windows but also needs to block out the sun’s glare to see the interactive whiteboard.

A blind can be fitted with side channels which ensure that the window can be opened without the wind blowing the blind and creating a distracting noise. This is another example of a unique situation where a curtain would not be appropriate.

4. Commercial and residential properties

Blinds are installed in commercial settings and residential properties. You wouldn’t think twice if you saw a blind in your friend’s home or your workplace. But you may scratch your head if you walk down the local high street and there is a curtain covering the large windows of your favourite restaurant. Blinds that are fitted in retail settings have a special fabric with an open weave that allows you to see through it. These blinds still provide some shading from daylight without obscuring views.

Blinds can be fitted in offices, retail settings, schools, hotels, leisure centres and just about any other building you can think of. Curtains are an excellent addition to building interiors, but they are mainly limited to homes, hospitals and the hospitality sector.

Summary

Based on these four points, blinds are more versatile than curtains. There is a huge range of blind types and excellent options to control the blind. Electric is a common control choice for luxury properties, but the metal control chain is the standard mechanism selected for blinds. Vertical and Venetian blinds are universally used in homes and commercial settings.