Comparing Types Of Conservatory Blinds - Part 1

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Comparing Types Of Conservatory Blinds - Part 1
by: Garry John

The cost of furnishing a conservatory can catch many people out, in fact it can often cost more than the conservatory itself. Conservatory Blinds can be very expensive so it is important to know what the choices are and what value a particular blind will bring. This article looks at the most common types and discusses the individual merits of each one.

Pleated Blinds

Pleated blinds are argueably the most attractive conservatory blind. They are available in a huge range of frabics and colours and have a modern elaborate look. They are a value alternative to pinoleum blinds and can be made with reflective material, which will help to maintain a more pleasing temperature. Typically, the pleats come in 25mm width but are increasingly available in 20mm. Pleated blinds are very versatile and can be used in any style of conservatory. Made to measure pleated blinds are readily available.

Pinoleum Blinds

Pinoleum blinds are the most traditional type of conservatory blind. Pinoleum is the name given to strips of thin wood which are woven together in different patterns. Roman or Rolled-up Pinoleum blinds are available. One of the great advantages of pinoleum blinds is that they let in a diffused light between the strips of wood. This gives them a great look. However, the downside is that maintaining the temperature is harder as heat comes in as well as light. This is obviously a problem is controlling temperature is the major concern, in which case this type of blind is probably not the right choice. Having said that it is possible to fix a reflective material to the back of the blind, but then the pleasant light effect is lost which is one of the major attribute of pinoleum blinds.

About The Author

Garry John is a regular contributor to uk home improvement websites such as http://www.uk-conservatories-online.co.uk and http://www.uk-conservatory-blinds.co.uk.

Window Décor Q&A - Part 2

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Window Décor Q&A - Part 2

by: Yasmin Siboldi, Manager, Visual Merchandising at Blinds To Go (courtesy of News Canada)

Q: Our family room in the summer is almost unbearable due to the heat from the harsh sunlight that comes into the room from our several windows. We have central air conditioning but that room is always a lot warmer. What type of window treatment should I consider that will help me cut my air conditioning costs in the hot summer months?

A: Look for window treatments that have insulating qualities. There are four different types of shades available that provide excellent insulating values - the pleated shade, nested cellular, single cellular and double cellular shade. The pleated shade blocks heat and protects against the suns harmful U.V. rays. This treatment option can also add a decorative element to your décor as they are available in linens, prints and jacquards. Nested and Single Cellular shades are constructed to actually trap pockets of air inside the shades, helping to regulate your room's temperature. The Double cellular shade's structure maximizes energy efficiency lowering your cooling costs. If you're looking for complete blackout options, effective choices include room-darkening roller shades and pleated shades with a blackout lining feature.

For more home décor and window covering ideas, visit a Blinds To Go superstore (1-800-blinds-7 for store locations) or their web site at www.blindstogo.com.

Window Blinds: Window Décor Q&A - Part 1

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Window Décor Q&A - Part 1

by: Yasmin Siboldi, Manager, Visual Merchandising at Blinds To Go (courtesy of News Canada)

Q: We've just moved into our home and we were considering different window treatment options. When it comes to the front of the house how uniform should our treatments be? Should they all be in one color or is it preferable to mix and match depending on our interior décor?

A: It is common to want the window treatments in the front of your home to be as uniform as possible-just how uniform is up to you. Most people just make sure that the front products are generally white. Options like Cellular and Pleated shades have white backings despite their colored inside-facing fabric. Some aluminum blinds can be made as "duo-tones" which are white on the back.

In general, the more symmetrical your home décor the more likely the products should be similar. People often use one product across the front; however, many also use one for the first floor and another for the second. It's your home, so whatever option you feel is appropriate should be fine.

For more home décor and window covering ideas, visit a Blinds To Go superstore (1-800-blinds-7 for store locations) or their web site at www.blindstogo.com.
Q: What are some window shade options for a second story window in a study?

A: If you want a shade, consider the Top-Down/Bottom-Up feature, which allows you to cover the bottom half of your window and not block your view. For instance, if you're studying or reading, this option allows you to block people from seeing into the room while maintaining some of the outside view and sunlight.