Pick the best window shades for every room

Many homeowners ignore window blinds or shades when decorating a room, but doing so neglects a crucial part of home decor. While these elements are primarily functional rather than decorative, the proper blinds for a room will help to tie the overarching style together. It may not be the flashiest element you add to a space but can contribute to a room's style and prevent sunlight from bleaching your furniture and carpeting. If you are installing blinds for the first time, it also presents the opportunity to evaluate your windows for any issues, which can be good preparation for a home inspection. Here's a brief overview of some different types of blinds and shades:

Aluminum blinds

These are the slatted metal apparatuses that most people associate with window blinds. While they offer some benefits, such as the ability to let in variable amounts of light when closed, these blinds are less stylish than other options and have issues with durability. If aluminum pieces becomes bent, the blinds will never close correctly. Though these are a cost-effective option, other choices will offer more style and similar utility. 

Cellular blinds

These fabric blinds look similar to aluminum blinds when closed but lack the aluminum models' slatted design. Instead, these blinds consist of hexagonal fabric "cells". When you close these blinds they are impossible to see through but will let some light in. That characteristic distinguishes filtering blinds and shades from blackout models that completely block all light. Cellular blinds have a softer appearance than aluminum and provide a more visually attractive alternative.

Wooden blinds

If you want the utility of aluminum blinds without the drawbacks, consider wooden options. You can stain slatted wooden blinds in attractive accent colors or painted to match existing decor. While owners can not retract all versions of these blinds  like other window shades, they can be adjusted  to let varying amounts of light in. 

Bamboo shades

Bamboo shades can provide filtering similar to cellular blinds with a more natural look that fits in to a surprising number of rooms. These shades offer easy installation, like cellular and aluminum blinds, and are remarkably durable. 

This is just a small sampling of different blind types, and you should visit a home improvement store to find what works for your space. The experts there will also help you customize your choice to fit your windows and can provide professional installation for more complex shade types.