Understanding Different Types of Window Shades: Blinds vs. Roller Shades
Blinds and roller shades are two very different types of window coverings, each offering different levels of light control, privacy, and view-through. Our custom window treatments let you choose the fabrics, materials, and colors you like, so you can complement your home’s interior design.
At The Blind Alley near Bellevue, WA, we carry the full variety of Hunter Douglas window shades, blinds, and shutters. Our team of design experts have years of experience designing window treatments for interiors, and with your consultation we help you make the best decision for your home.
Continue reading to compare blinds and different types of roller shades.
Comparison Guide: Blinds vs. Roller Shades
Blinds are window treatments often associated with main living areas or home offices. They feature slats that run either horizontally or vertically. Horizontal blinds can be raised or lowered all together, and the individual slats twist to manage the angle of light. You can angle them up or down to block out light or redirect it, reducing glare and UV damage. You can also rotate them flat for an excellent view and natural light. We carry Hunter Douglas blinds made from fabric, metal, and wood.
Vertical blinds glide along the top of your window to slide into the position you desire. Some styles have vertical fabric vanes that twist like slats. We also offer PVC, fabric-wrapped, and metal vertical blinds—including large-format panels.
Roller shades are fabric shades that roll down from a cassette or roller above the window. They are available in different opacities, so they block varying amounts of light and provide varying levels of view-through. You select from dozens of fabrics, materials colors, designs, and patterns. We carry several styles of roller shades that are all slightly different:
Comparison Guide: Blinds vs. Banded Shades
Designer Banded Shades are similar to blinds in a few ways. Blinds have slats, which you can turn. Banded shades feature alternating horizontal bands of sheer and opaque fabric that mimic the slats on blinds. They have a lower-profile look and sleekness associated with fabric shades, but with the function of blinds.
Different Types of Window Shades
In addition to roller shades, we carry several other window shades:
- Roman Shades: Stacking or folding layers of fabric add style, warmth, and elegance.
- Cellular Shades: Honeycomb-shaped pockets trap air to maximize energy efficiency.
- Woven Shades: Handwoven from grass, wood, and bamboo, for a relaxed sophistication.
- Sheer Shades: A sheer fabric shade with fabric louvers that also work like slats on blinds.
Contact Us for Custom Window Shades Near Bellevue, WA
Determining which window shades are best for your home can be tricky. With your consultation, our team at The Blind Alley in Bellevue, Washington can show you how different window treatments will look in your home, so you can envision the completed project.
We’ll help you select the style that matches your needs and goals and work with you to customize them. In addition to Hunter Douglas window treatments, we carry home décor fabrics and commercial window treatments, and offer blind and shade repairs.
Request a consultation by calling (425) 644-7181 or filling out our online contact form. We proudly serve the greater Bellevue, Washington, area, including Seattle, Lake Washington, Renton, Mercer Island, Newcastle, Issaquah, Carnation, and the surrounding areas.