After making the decision to use vertical window blinds in their homes, many people are surprised to learn that the decisions don’t end there. There are plenty of different options to choose from and choosing the right ones for your home is imperative. Fortunately, asking yourself a few simple questions can help you determine what blinds will best meet your needs and the requirements of your home.
- What is your budget?
The very first thing you should do, before you even start looking at the various options available, is determine how much you can afford to spend on window furnishings. Ensure that you work out how much you can comfortably afford on the whole project, then divide this down into how much you can afford to spend per blind. Keep in mind that there may be other costs involved, such as installation. - What is the overall style of your home?
It’s important that you’ve chosen blinds that complement the style of your home, so ensure that you’ve determined what that is. Have you gone for a very minimalist look or something a bit more homely? Are your rooms often described as art deco or would they look more at home in a rustic magazine? This will help you to sift through the various furnishing styles available that don’t match. - Will the same blind be used throughout the house?
Think about how many windows you’re planning to furnish and then consider whether you’ll use the same vertical window blinds on all of them. Some homeowners prefer to use something a little different in the bathroom or kitchen, as furnishings in these areas are known to take quite a beating (from moisture, heat and other unavoidable factors). - How long do you want the blinds to last?
If you’re planning on moving in the near future, you may not be too bothered whether they’re only going to last a year or so (as it won’t be your responsibility to replace them). If you have children, for example, you might plan to replace the window furnishings as they get older to suit a more grown-up design in your bedrooms. - What kind of maintenance do you prefer?
While most people will go for the option with the lowest required maintenance, others don’t mind performing a little upkeep in exchange for stunning blinds that will stand the test of time. Fabric will require more upkeep than plastic, metal or timber – but even fabric window furnishings are relatively easy to look after. Generally, all they require is the occasional vacuum and spot stain removal.
The answers to these questions will help you to narrow down your options and pick the right vertical window blinds for your home. Choosing the right color, fabric and style is imperative for the success of the installation – otherwise you’ll be stuck looking at costly blinds that you cannot stand. Don’t be afraid to ask for assistance if required, as most window furnishing professionals will be more than happy to offer advice and help.
This post was originally published on RISMedia’s blog, Housecall. Check the blog daily for top real estate tips and trends.
