Window blinds and coverings

Today one of the most popular choices for window treatments blinds is the mini blind. It is the most widely used when horizontal is needed, the most readily available or the widest colors available. The minis are made from aluminum or vinyl and will usually have a finish that is somewhat of a dust inhibitor. Due to their design they will work in almost situations and fit in will any decor, come in many sizes such as the most popular one inch wide slats; 1/2", 1-3/8" and 2" are also available. The history on this type of blind will date way back to about the mid 1790 time frame and were initially just called venetian blinds. In the early days most all were made with wooden slats that were narrow and when adjusted would allow light to show through. Aluminum became the material of choice during the 2nd World War or 1940's time frame.

The options have come a long way in recent years with aluminum and vinyl leading the way as the material of choice for their manufacture. Many new features have surfaced like total blackout, privacy or room darkening. In the manufacturing process a way was developed to eliminate the small route holes and this increased the privacy to a much higher level. Tapes of cloth have been added to some models for color or decorating contrast on new products. Another window treatments blinds feature is the ability for top down or bottom up.

With advent of aluminum it became possible to make the widths from almost zero all the way up to 12 feet. Today you will be able to find any shape or size to help with your decorating, the versatility is unlimited.

Most all of the window blinds manufactured today are very easily installed and are pretty well considered DIY (Do It Yourself) products. Most anyone with a few simple tools and the knowledge to use them can do a very fast installation job. All of the instructions will be packed with each shipment and will be easy to read and follow; your window treatments will be up in no time. Most of the time the preferred installation will be an inside mount job where the blind is inside the window opening. Occasionally the inside depth of the window opening may be too shallow, less than 1/2", so you will want to review the details of your product before making a final purchase.

Window treatments blinds may also include shades or other materials that offer light and privacy. Do not be confused if you hear the term window dressings used occasionally. This usually refers to curtains, drapes and valances that can be used to decorate windows and may also be used with or instead of other products.

You may also encounter the term shutters, both indoor and outdoor. The indoor shutters are known to provide both frill and function. Shutters can be used to block out sunlight or night lights and they are also good barriers as insulation against both heat and cold. Shutters are made from many different materials with wood and plastic (PVC) being the most readily available.