Deciding between curtains and blinds can be difficult. There are pros and cons with each window covering option, and some may find that a combination of both blinds and curtains provides the required functionality and aesthetic for their space.

If you would like more help deciding whether curtains or blinds  would work best for you, feel free to visit us.

Meanwhile, below are some guides to help you with choosing between the two:

BLINDS

Aesthetic

Blinds provide a simple, clean aesthetic and can be crafted from a range of materials including wood, veneer, plastic and fabric, depending on their intended use.

Roller blinds are excellent for achieving a minimalist, tidy look, while being very cost effective. They roll away to expose the entire window when open, allowing natural light to pour inside when desired. Fascia gives roller blinds a clean, modern look by hiding the roll and brackets, reducing the light gap at the top of the blind.

Warmth

Venetian, vertical or roller blinds are not so energy efficient. The small gaps between each slat in Venetian blinds or vertical blinds allow warm air to escape, reducing insulation capabilities. However, insulation requirements vary throughout each space and rooms like the bathroom, kitchen and laundry may not require the same levels of insulation as bedrooms and living areas.

Roller blinds come in a range of fabrics from translucent to sunscreen and thermal to block-out. Sunscreen roller blinds are great at providing UV protection and daytime privacy, while still letting natural light in, particularly during summer months. When teamed with a thermal or block-out on a double bracket roller blinds can be a complete window treatment solution.

Function

Venetian blinds can be simply tilted to reduce solar glare and increase day light penetration, allowing optimum levels of privacy and natural light. Lifting the blinds exposes the entire window space, with a small area taken up by the tightly packed slats. Areas with high moisture exposure, such as the kitchen and bathroom, benefit from the water resistant properties of wood look Venetian blinds with reduced mold accumulation.

Depending on the qualities of the fabric chosen, roller blinds can provide many functional benefits. Sunscreen blinds provide UV protection and increase privacy while still allowing light to filter through. Blackout roller blinds allow very little light into the room, and make great choices for bedrooms of media rooms. Roller blinds can also be motorized to ensure easy lifting.

Cleaning

Dust accumulation can be an issue with slatted blinds, requiring regular wiping down. A light, regular vacuum can help to avoid dust build up. Allergy sufferers may find this an issue.

Some can be difficult to remove and clean, it’s likely that spot cleaning will be enough to remove any marks..

CURTAINS

Aesthetic

There are a variety of heading styles, fabrics and lining options that combine to determine the overall aesthetic of your curtains. It is possible to achieve a variety of styles, many of which will depend on where you intend to use the curtains.

Your choice in fabric will determine the functionality and aesthetic of your curtains. It can be helpful to find some images of styles that you like though.

Warmth

The addition of thermal lining ensures that curtains are effective at retaining heat and increasing the energy efficiency of your home. Heavier fabrics generally have better insulating properties, but can be overbearing in a small space.

Curtains  can be effective at blocking harsh sunlight in the summer months, however when closed they severely reduce the amount of natural light in the room. This may be something to consider if you have a north facing living space, but want to enjoy natural light on warm days.

Function

Curtains are easy to pull, with a variety of closing mechanisms available, including automated systems.

You may notice that your curtains cover part of the window when open, something that may not be an issue with large window spaces, but is important to consider with smaller windows.

Sheer curtains can provide additional privacy and protection from harsh sunlight, while still allowing natural light to filter through. A modern take on traditional net curtains, they bring a soft, dreamy look to any room.

The use of curtains in moist spaces can enhance the risk of mold build up, especially if you experience regular condensation during cold/rainy months.

Cleaning

Spot cleaning is the best way to maintain curtains, with a light vacuum helping to remove dust build up.

Source: https://www.russellscurtains.co.nz