Buyers Guide to Window Blinds

Last updated: 18 Apr 2024

When buying window blinds or shades, there are several things to consider. Here is a buyer's guide to help you choose the right window blinds for your home::

Purpose: Consider the purpose of the blinds or shades. Do you want them for privacy, light control, energy efficiency, or aesthetic purposes?
Type of window: Consider the type of window you have. Some blinds or shades work better with certain window types, such as bay windows or skylights.
Material: Consider the material of the blinds or shades. Different materials have different properties and benefits, such as durability, light control, and energy efficiency. Window blinds are available in different materials such as wood, faux wood, metal, fabric, and more. Consider the level of privacy and light control you need, and choose a material that is durable, easy to clean, and fits in with your home decor.
Size and fit: Measure your windows accurately and consider the fit of the blinds or shades. Some blinds may require more clearance or space to operate properly. Custom-made blinds are available if you have an irregularly sized window.
Style: Consider the style of your room and choose a style of blinds or shades that complement it. There are many styles available, including modern, traditional, and rustic.
Operation: Consider the operation of the blinds or shades. Some operate with cords, while others are motorized or have a cordless design.
Cost: Consider your budget and the cost of the blinds or shades. Prices can vary greatly depending on the type, size, and material of the blinds or shades. Set a budget and look for blinds that fit within your price range. Remember that high-quality blinds can last for several years and may be a better investment in the long run.
Installation: Consider the installation process and whether you will need professional installation or if you can install them yourself.
Type of Blinds: There are different types of blinds available such as roller blinds, Roman blinds, Venetian blinds, vertical blinds, and more. Consider the style of your home and the room you want to install blinds in, and choose the type of blinds that best suits your needs.

The different kinds of window blinds available in the UK are:
Roller blinds: Roller blinds are made of fabric and roll up and down with the help of a cord or chain. They are easy to install and provide a sleek and simple look to your windows.
1. Light control: Roller blinds can be adjusted to control the amount of light entering a room. They can be fully closed to block out light or partially closed to allow some light to enter.
2. Privacy: Roller blinds can provide privacy by blocking the view into a room from outside.
3. Easy to use: Roller blinds are easy to use and operate, making them a convenient option for window coverings.
4. Space-saving: Roller blinds take up less space than other types of window coverings, making them a good choice for small rooms or windows.
5. Customization: Roller blinds can be customized to fit any window size and can be made from a variety of materials to match any decor style.
6. Energy efficiency: Roller blinds can help to reduce energy costs by providing insulation and reducing the amount of heat that escapes through windows.
7. Durability: Roller blinds are durable and can last for many years with proper care and maintenance.
8. Cost-effective: Roller blinds are a cost-effective option compared to other types of window coverings, making them an affordable choice for many homeowners.
Roman blinds These blinds are available in various colours, patterns, and materials, making it easy to find the perfect fit for any room in your home. Roman blinds are made of fabric and fold up in sections when raised. They provide a soft and elegant look to your windows and are available in different styles.
1. Style: Roman blinds provide a classic, elegant look that can add a touch of sophistication to any room.
2. Light control: Roman blinds can be adjusted to control the amount of light entering a room. They can be fully closed to block out light or partially closed to allow some light to enter.
3. Privacy: Roman blinds can provide privacy by blocking the view into a room from outside.
4. Insulation: Roman blinds can provide insulation and help to reduce energy costs by reducing the amount of heat that escapes through windows.
5. Easy to clean: Roman blinds are easy to clean and maintain, making them a practical option for busy households.
6. Customization: Roman blinds can be customized to fit any window size and can be made from a variety of materials to match any decor style.
7. Durability: Roman blinds are durable and can last for many years with proper care and maintenance.
8. Cost-effective: Roman blinds are a cost-effective option compared to other types of window coverings, making them an affordable choice for many homeowners.
Venetian blinds (including wooden, metal, and PVC). Venetian blinds are made of horizontal slats that can be tilted to control the amount of light entering the room. They are available in different materials like wood, metal, or PVC.
1. Light control: Venetian blinds have slats that can be tilted to control the amount of light entering a room. They can be fully closed to block out light or partially closed to allow some light to enter.
2. Privacy: Venetian blinds provide privacy by blocking the view into a room from outside.
3. Style: Venetian blinds come in a variety of materials, colors, and finishes, making them a stylish option for any room.
4. Easy to clean: Venetian blinds are easy to clean and maintain, making them a practical option for busy households.
5. Durability: Venetian blinds are durable and can last for many years with proper care and maintenance.
6. Insulation: Venetian blinds can provide insulation and help to reduce energy costs by reducing the amount of heat that escapes through windows.
7. Customization: Venetian blinds can be customized to fit any window size and can be made from a variety of materials to match any decor style.
8. Cost-effective: Venetian blinds are a cost-effective option compared to other types of window coverings, making them an affordable choice for many homeowners.
Vertical blinds. Vertical blinds are made of vertical slats that can be tilted to control the amount of light entering the room. They are ideal for sliding glass doors and large windows.
1. Versatility: Vertical blinds are available in a variety of materials, colours, and textures, making them a versatile option that can complement any decor style.
2. Light control: With vertical blinds, you can adjust the angle of the slats to control the amount of light that enters your room. This makes them an ideal choice for rooms that require a combination of privacy and natural light.
3. Energy efficiency: Vertical blinds can help insulate your home by preventing heat loss through windows. They can also reduce solar heat gain during the summer, which can help lower your cooling costs.
4. Easy maintenance: Vertical blinds are easy to clean and maintain, making them a practical option for busy households. They can be easily wiped down with a damp cloth or vacuumed to remove dust and dirt.
5. Space-saving: Vertical blinds stack neatly to the side when they are fully opened, which can help to save space in smaller rooms.
6. Cost-effective: Compared to other types of window treatments, vertical blinds are often a more cost-effective option.
Pleated blinds. Pleated blinds are made of fabric and have a pleated design that folds up neatly when raised. They are available in different colours and styles.
1. Versatility: Pleated blinds can be made to fit almost any window size and shape, including skylights, conservatory roofs, and triangular windows.
2. Light filtering: Pleated blinds can be made with sheer or semi-sheer fabrics that allow light to filter into the room while still providing privacy.
3. Energy efficiency: Pleated blinds can help reduce heat loss in the winter and keep the room cool in the summer, making them an energy-efficient choice.
4. Easy to operate: Pleated blinds can be operated using a cord, wand, or motorized system, making them easy to adjust to the desired level of light and privacy.
5. Stylish: Pleated blinds come in a wide variety of colors and patterns, allowing homeowners to choose a style that complements their home decor.
Cellular/honeycomb blinds. Cellular or honeycomb blinds are made of a double layer of fabric that creates a honeycomb-like structure. They provide excellent insulation and are ideal for energy-efficient homes.
1. Energy efficiency: Honeycomb blinds have a unique honeycomb-shaped design that creates air pockets, providing insulation for your windows. This can help to keep your home warmer in the winter and cooler in the summer, reducing your energy bills.
2. Light control: Honeycomb blinds come in different opacities, from sheer to blackout, allowing you to control the amount of light that enters a room.
3. Privacy: The unique construction of honeycomb blinds also provides increased privacy, as the honeycomb cells block the view from outside.
4. Noise reduction: The air pockets in the honeycomb design also help to absorb sound, reducing noise pollution in your home.
5. Durability: Honeycomb blinds are typically made from high-quality materials, making them durable and long-lasting.
Panel blinds. Panel blinds are made of large panels of fabric that slide across a track. They are ideal for covering large windows or as room dividers.
1. Versatility: Panel blinds are highly versatile and can be used in a variety of settings, from large windows to sliding doors and even as room dividers.
2. Light control: With panel blinds, you can control the amount of light that enters a room by adjusting the position of the panels. This makes them ideal for use in bedrooms, media rooms, and other spaces where light control is important.
3. Style options: Panel blinds come in a variety of materials, colours, and patterns, giving you plenty of options to choose from to match your home décor.
4. Easy to clean: Panel blinds are easy to clean and maintain, with many options being machine washable or wipeable.
5. Energy efficiency: Panel blinds can help to improve the energy efficiency of your home by reducing heat loss through windows and doors.
6. Privacy: Panel blinds can offer enhanced privacy for your home, especially when used as room dividers or on large windows.
Perfect fit blinds (which are fitted to the window frame without drilling or screws)
1. No drilling or screws needed: Perfect fit blinds are designed to fit perfectly onto the window frame, with no need for drilling or screws. This means that they are easy to install and can be put up in a matter of minutes.
2. Neat and tidy: Perfect fit blinds are designed to fit flush against the window, giving a clean and uncluttered look. There are no cords or chains hanging down, which can be particularly useful if you have young children or pets.
3. Increased energy efficiency: Perfect fit blinds can help to reduce heat loss through your windows, making your home more energy-efficient. They fit snugly against the window, creating a barrier that helps to keep the heat in during the winter months and out during the summer months.
4. Increased privacy: Perfect fit blinds offer a high level of privacy, as they fit so snugly against the window frame. There are no gaps for people to look through, which can be particularly useful if you live in a busy area or near a road.
5. Versatile: Perfect fit blinds are available in a wide range of styles, colours and materials, so there is something to suit every home and every taste. They can be used in any room of the house, from the living room to the bathroom.
Day and night blinds (which have two layers of fabric for maximum light control)
1. Versatility: Day and night blinds are versatile, and their unique design allows you to control the amount of light that enters a room. By adjusting the two layers of fabric, you can have complete privacy or let in a soft, diffused light.
2. Energy-saving: Day and night blinds can help to reduce your energy bills by preventing heat loss during the winter months and keeping rooms cooler during the summer months.
3. UV protection: The two layers of fabric used in day and night blinds can also protect your furnishings, carpets, and flooring from the damaging effects of UV rays, which can cause fading over time.
4. Stylish: Day and night blinds are available in a wide range of fabrics and colours, making them a stylish addition to any room in your home.
5. Easy to clean: Day and night blinds are easy to clean and maintain, simply wipe them down with a damp cloth to keep them looking fresh and new.
6. Privacy: Day and night blinds can offer excellent privacy, especially in rooms that are overlooked by neighbours or passers-by.
7. Affordable: Day and night blinds are an affordable option for window coverings, making them an excellent choice for those on a budget.
Motorised blinds (which can be controlled with a remote or app).
1. Convenience: With motorised blinds, you can easily open or close your blinds from the comfort of your couch, bed or even when you're away from home. This is especially useful for hard-to-reach windows or for those with mobility issues.
2. Energy efficiency: Motorised blinds can be programmed to open and close at specific times, helping to regulate the amount of sunlight and heat entering your home. This can help to reduce your energy bills and save you money in the long run.
3. Safety: Motorised blinds eliminate the need for cords, which can be a safety hazard, especially for young children and pets. This makes them a safer option for homes with children or pets.
4. Increased lifespan: Motorised blinds are less likely to suffer from wear and tear since they are operated by a motor rather than being manually pulled or pushed. This means that they can last longer than traditional blinds.
5. Improved aesthetics: Motorised blinds are sleek and modern, giving your home a more contemporary feel. They can also be customised to match your decor and personal style.

Colour and Design: Choose a colour and design that complements your home decor. Neutral colours like white, beige, and grey are versatile and can match any decor.
Light Control: Consider how much light you want to let into your room. For example, blackout blinds are ideal for bedrooms as they can block out all light, while sheer blinds allow more light into your room.
Energy Efficiency: Consider buying energy-efficient blinds that can help you save on your energy bills. Insulated blinds can help keep your home warm in winter and cool in summer.

By considering these factors, you can choose the right window blinds that fit your needs and enhance the look and functionality of your home.

How much do window blinds cost in the UK?

The cost of window blinds in the UK can vary greatly depending on the type, size, and material of the blinds.

As a rough estimate, the cost for basic, standard-sized blinds are:

Roller blinds: £10-£100
Roman blinds: £30-£300
Venetian blinds: £20-£200
Vertical blinds: £15-£150
Pleated blinds: £20-£200
Cellular/honeycomb blinds: £40-£400
Panel blinds: £50-£500
Perfect fit blinds: £50-£250
Day and night blinds: £30-£300
Motorised blinds: £150-£1000

These prices are for a single blind and do not include installation costs. Prices may also vary depending on the brand and quality of the blinds. It's best to shop around and compare prices from different retailers before making a purchase.