As American and traditional as apple pie – wooden blinds and chocolate labradors. Reliable, beautiful and family-friendly (especially with our Cordless Lift).
Left: 2″ Select Basswood Wood Blinds in Beaver Brown
The natural frays from woven wood’s reed and bamboo fibers remind us of Goldendoodle’s wispy fur. Woven wood shades also fold over easily, and if you try holding a Goldendoodle pup, you’ll see they flip and flop every which way.
Classic Cordless Woven Wood Shades in Golden Poppy
We picture corgis living anywhere from wealthy homes to a secluded English cottage. Same with Roman Shades. They work with various interior design styles, thanks to the fold, pattern and color options!
Chihuahuas are known for being yappy dogs. If you’ve ever bumped into mini aluminum blinds or tried using broken ones, you know they make quite a bit of noise.
Aussies have so many different color combinations from their fur to their eyes. As working dogs, they’re reliable to get the job done. Rollers are extremely durable with its PVC material, and they come in lots of colors and patterns.
Luxe Modern Light Filtering Roller Shades in Refined Honey
Cellular shades are one of the most commonly used window coverings, partly due to their efficiency. When thinking of a common dog, we thought of the beloved pittie. They’re a bit goofy-looking, like cellular shades (in our opinion), and great family dogs.
Sheer blinds are so delicate that you might worry you will damage them (you won’t); similarly you have to look down with these pups to make sure you don’t step on them.
3″ Refined Light Filtering Sheer Shades in Linen Creme
The six extra weeks of winter are almost over, and we cannot wait for warmer weather. (That’s saying a lot given SelectBlinds is based in Arizona.) As you’re getting ready for more sun, consider incorporating solar shades into your home.
Solar shades operate like roller shades; however, the material is often less dense than rollers. This means solars can be fully lowered and still provide an outside view (more on that later). Other features include:
UV Protection: Solar shades reflect light and can block up to 95% of harmful UV rays. They keep furniture from being damaged while also reducing the glare on screens.
Energy Efficient: In the hot weather months, interior solar shades can reduce incoming heat by 30 to 70 percent, which will help decrease energy costs.
Kid Friendly: All our shades are available with a Cordless Lift, which is the safest style for homes with young children. Some solar shades have an option to upgrade to Motorization.
To match the right shade to your lifestyle, ask yourself the following questions:
1. Where is the placement of the shade?
Lifestyle Motorized Solar in Pearl 3%
A basic but important question. Are these shades going inside or outside? That will determine if you need interior or exterior solar shades.
Both are made of durable PVC materials, but exterior solar shades are generally constructed from weather-proof materials. Interior shades are moisture and mold-resistant, so they can be in rooms regardless of humidity.
2. What level of openness do you want?
Left: Classic Exterior Sheer Weave Solars in Black 3%; Right: Classic Exterior Sheer Weave Solars in Black 14%
Openness refers to the tightness of the fabric weave, which is an indication of the percentage of light that can penetrate through. Our blinds range from 1% to 14%.
A low number, or low openness percentage, means the fabric is tightly woven. The low percentages (i.e. 1-5%) block out more UV rays and offer more privacy. With a low openness, the outward visibility through the shade is limited.
A high openness percentage (i.e. 14%) has a looser fabric weave, which means there’s more visibility and still a decent glare reduction.
Tip: Lighter colors for interior or exterior solar shades can block more glare, and darker colors improve your visibility to the outside.
3. Should you add a layer?
Designer Series Fashion Solar Screen in Balboa 4%
Remember, solar shades reflect light. During the day, it blocks a view into your home from the outside while allowing you to see from the inside out.
The effect is reversed during the evening. The solar shades reflect the lights in your home, which blocks your outward view and allows visibility from outside the home.
So, should you add a layer for privacy? It’s really up to you!
If the solar shade faces your backyard, privacy may not be a big concern. If your solar shade faces a street and you want privacy, consider layering curtains so that you can close them at night and block visibility from the outside.
Now that you know the basics, get ready for the first day of spring and order free Solar Shade samples! Call or chat with one of our Design Consultants to learn which solar shade is best for your home. Call (888) 257-1840. They’re easy to talk to!
Architect Light Filtering Panel Track in Modern Gray
One reason people buy new window coverings is because they’re looking to increase their light control. After all, too much light can eventually fade your furniture or floors if there’s too much exposure to UV rays.
But don’t let that keep you from blocking away all light. Natural light does have its benefits like:
Boosting Vitamin D
Improving your sleep cycle
Producing serotonin and endorphins
Reducing stress and anxiety
Saving energy and money on electricity
Now that you know the benefits, you can decide exactly how much light you want in your home. Some products are better suited if you’d like more light versus if you want no light at all. We broke down our products into three broad categories based on how well they allow light in.
High Light Filtering
Designer Light Filtering Dual Shade in Coastal Cream
Light is softly diffused through the sheer fabric of these products.
Visit our website for an in-depth look at which shade is best suited for your light control needs, or call our Design Consultant Team at (888) 257-1840. They’re easy to talk to!
Include your windows in spring cleaning this year, and we’re not talking about standard dusting. The first step of spring cleaning is to toss out what you don’t need, so let’s start there. Here are three signs you need to replace your window coverings.
1. You hate them.
Let’s not complicate it. You can’t stand the window blinds or shades you currently have. They were already there when you moved in. Decide what you want by browsing our site or chatting with our Design Consultants!
2. Your window coverings are worn out and worn down.
The wood blinds are warped, the dog chewed the cellular shades, or your drapery didn’t withstand your children’s permanent marker designs. Whatever it is, sadly, your window coverings are too far gone. It’s time to get something new.
3. You remodeled or got new furniture.
Perhaps the new decor is modern, and your blinds feel too traditional. We have styles that will work with aesthetics from boho to farmhouse to elegant. Commit to your preferred interior design style and get the window coverings that match.
Unique and sleek, this window treatment layers a light filtering fabric over a blackout fabric, both of which provide UV protection. Each panel can be moved individually from the other, either manually or on your remote or smartphone.
Enjoy light and privacy control with a traditional, high-end look with Classic Roman Shades. Choose between a standard pleated fold or upgrade to a soft fold.
Naturally filter light through the unique woven wood texture, crafted from bamboo, grasses and other organic fibers. These are a top choice among bloggers and DIY designers for their ability to blend in seamlessly with almost any décor.
It’s a win-win with this unique day and night solar shade. The frontmost solar shade protects your interior from the harsh daytime sunlight. Meanwhile, the rear blackout shade provides a better night’s sleep with its insulation and blackout capabilities.
Double Solar Roller Shades in Umber Brown / Dark Maitake
Impress with this visually tantalizing jewel-toned drapery. Make your interior feel rich and plush with our Velvet Collection, or smooth and light with our Satin Collection.
Create a monochromatic masterpiece with these shades. Using an innovative lamination technique, the top soft fabric layer is fused with a liner that makes them energy efficient but still allows the sun to make its way through in a gentle light-filtering effect. They’re also available as Black & White Room Darkening Roller Shades.
Black & White Light Filtering Roller Shades in White Frond
Have questions? Call or chat with one of our Design Consultants! Call (888) 257-1840. They’re easy to talk to!
Bathroom window treatments are meant to offer you not just privacy, but also to add to your bathroom’s mood lighting, softness, and overall ambience. Your bathroom can be your own personal relaxation spa if you put some extra care and thought into it.
The best bathroom window treatments are those that function well in damp environments, like bathrooms or over your kitchensink. You can choose whatever style of window treatment you want for your bathroom, but remember that some window treatments can gather moisture and become moldy over time (like Roman shades or curtains), or start to deteriorate after absorbing water and moisture (like woven wood shades are prone to do when they get wet). You might find it most effective to settle on the window coverings that will work best (think low-maintenance) in your bathroom while satisfying your personal taste. Read on for some ideas to inspire you in the best ideas for blinds, shutters, and roller shades to do an amazing makeover for your personal self-care space.
Custom Bathroom Window Blinds
Custom window blinds offer you a sharp, minimalist aesthetic even without additional adornments, like layered curtains. Remember, you can go with natural wood blinds, but over time, you might have to deal with your blinds splitting or warping because of the moisture they’ll be exposed to. Why not go for the look and feel of natural wood blinds, but crafted in durable materials, and with a lower price tag? Try faux wood blinds as a perfect solution for your bathroom environment. For a more seamless visual effect, try faux woods that color coordinate with and complement the color of your trim.
Custom Bathroom Window Shutters
Image courtesy of The Grey Antler, @thegreyantler
For a classic, yet exciting look for your bathroom windows, you might consider giving custom-crafted shutters (yes, again we suggest faux wood) a try. Shutters are a great investment in your home overall. However, in the instance of your bathroom, they can add a nice architectural element to your windows, while still allowing you to manage incoming light and privacy.
Custom Bathroom Window Roller Shades
Image courtesy of Kailen Stephens, @stephens.homestead
The great thing about custom roller shades is that they boast a classic look, while still appearing modern, and with a nice fit for your windows. You can find stylish roller shades in moisture-resistant materials, as well, and your options for color coordination will expand outside of neutrals.
Another keen feature of roller shades is that you can find them in not just solid, opaque materials, but also in light filtering and room darkening varieties, to give you some leeway when it comes to managing incoming light. So you can maintain privacy without giving up brightness.
You love bright sunlight streaming through your bathroom window. Custom interior solar shades are a good option to maintain privacy, as well as let plenty of natural light in. You’ll also be protecting your bathroom interior from harsh UV rays. Solar shades (crafted in durable PVC materials) might be the solution you need. Be sure to account for additional nighttime coverage, however, as passersby will be able to see in through the shade due to its reflective design.
SelectBlinds.com Staff Recommendations for Your Bathroom Space
Looking for some recommendations for bathroom window coverings to give your personal self-care spa that final personalized touch? SelectBlinds.com staff have made selections from our different product tiers for you, to offer you excellent, customizable design solutions for any taste and budget. Spend some time window shopping to see what we have to offer!
Our Traditional Solar Shades, constructed of long-lasting PVC with a sleek colored polymer coating offer an enhanced design for reliable UV protection, with a great view to the outside.
You’ll love these uniquely designed, lightweight faux wood blinds, easy to operate with just one hand! Cordless and economical, the wave-shaped slats seal tight to keep out light.
Take your windows up a notch with faux wood shutters that will last a lifetime. Get a classic wood-blind look with increased durability and moisture resistance.
*Our Essential Tier products include simple designs in familiar styles. Made of materials known for strength, and easy cleaning, Essential Tier products are a great starting point for first-time homeowners or renters that are looking for budget-friendly solutions.
Lighten up your windows with a fun, contemporary pattern on a neutral background. Slow your roll with choice of four lift options, including free cordless and smart WiFi.
*Our Luxury Tier products include superior design in distinct styles. Made with unique materials and quality craftsmanship. Luxury Tier products are for the homeowner looking to indulge in sophisticated customization. Some upgrade features are included.
Custom Solutions for Your Custom DIY Design Projects
DIY Design was never meant to always be a “Do it ALL by Yourself” kind of thing. For any space, indoors or out, a home design upgrade should never feel overwhelming. Your bathroom is no exception.
Nothing makes an outdoor space more enjoyable than exterior solar shades to keep the harmful UV rays out of your face while keeping your patio or deck area cool. We at SelectBlinds.com are all about supporting you, all the way from start to finish. We offer you all the helpful resources you’ll need to make your life (and projects) easier because your success is our success! Make your dream home ALL YOURS as you custom-craft it, without breaking your budget. As you sharpen those interior DIY design instincts, you will save plenty of money and enjoy the satisfaction of creating something special.
Check out our FREE interior design consulting as just another way we can support you from start to finish. Get tips, color guidance, product recommendations, solutions to the problems you may encounter, etc. Call us today at (855) 235-3120 to take advantage of our free design consultation resources. Find those perfect bathroom window treatments to match your own personal taste and style.
Free Samples. Free Shipping. Free Design Consulting. Every Day.
Autumn patio season is right around the corner. Though we’re still in the middle of what’s known as the “Dog Days of Summer” (roughly early July through about the first half of August), it’s not too early to get ready for warm afternoons and cool evenings with friends and family in your patio or deck area. Oh, and relaxing with your beverage of choice. There will still be enough sun and heat on many fall days that you’ll want to plan for shade and bugs, but … what a lovely time of the year!
Here are some pointers that can help set you up for a successful patio season this fall.
Patio Setup
Quick Setup Checklist:
Ensure patio furniture, patio area, and umbrella(s) are clean and in good working order.
Furniture/equipment repair and replacement as needed.
Ensure proper sunshine/shade balance and proper lighting for evenings.
To get things started, you’ll want to make sure your patio/deck/outdoor area is set up if you haven’t already. With summer almost half over, this might be a good time to hose off any dust from your outdoor furniture, fencing, window frames, etc. Check to make sure all furniture and umbrellas are in stable, working order. Perhaps it’s also a good time to power wash the concrete patio floor or deck. prepare your patio, deck, or other outdoor area.
As best you can, make sure your outdoor entertainment area has a nice balance of sunshine and shade for yourself, your family, and guests. We’ll talk more shortly about keeping your outdoor area properly shaded.
It’s starting to get dark earlier in the evening, and earlier dark will continue through the winter. Don’t forget about outdoor lighting. Clean out dead bugs where appropriate, and make sure string lighting is in working order.
Bug Proofing
Quick Setup Checklist:
Plant bug-repellent flowers and plants.
Set up citronella candles or coils to burn.
Set up Tiki torches to help with bugs and for ambience. Bug zapper lamps also work well.
Where there’s outdoor relaxation and company, there are also problematic bugs.
You’ll want to prepare for the little invasive critters by planting some flowers and/or plants that repel insects, such as chrysanthemums or lavender. They’ll look and smell beautiful to you and your guests.
You can also set up burning citronella candles or coils on your tables or other nearby surfaces to let these pests know they’re not invited and to keep them away.
Tiki torches are also effective as bug repellents while adding a lovely tropical ambience to your outdoor area.
Get your outdoor propane heaters and/or firepit ready!
One of the great things about autumn is that there’s still plenty of warm afternoon sun left, and then it cools off in the evenings. You’ll want to plan accordingly.
Remember earlier we mentioned balancing the sun/shade in your outdoor area? A good exterior solar shade will do a great job of keeping the glare out of your eyes and offering enough shade for your area, while still being able to enjoy the warmth. Also, you’ll be able to help protect your outdoor furniture and maintain your outside view through the shade.
As for keeping it warm for those cool autumn nights, set up one or more propane heaters to keep things toasty when it gets chilly outside. Better yet, maybe you’ve also got a firepit for ambient effect and to provide plenty of warmth.
Select Blinds Staff Recommendations for Your Outdoor Space
Need a few recommendations for exterior solar shades for your outdoor entertainment space? We’ve made selections from our different product tiers for you, to offer you excellent, customizable design solutions for any taste and budget. Spend some time window shopping to see what we have to offer!
Get your outdoor entertainment area ready to have company over and grill with these brilliant exterior solar shades! Install shades where it counts while protecting your furniture from fading and discoloration.
Keep your patio or deck area cool and comfortable by blocking out harmful UV rays and adding some lovely shade to your outdoor oasis. And do so while staying true to your existing design.
*Our Signature Tier products feature thoughtful designs in trendy styles. Made with durable materials, Signature Tier products are the perfect place to start when looking for a beyond-basic solution that is also affordable.
Choose from several standard sizes to find the perfect outdoor solar shade for your patio or deck space. Get the shade you want when the autumn sun gets to be a bit much, or let in all that beautiful sunlight whenever you want.
Take your outdoor experience up a notch with the convenience and ease of motorized solar shades. You’ll love the gorgeous oil-rubbed valance and convenient cable tie-downs!
*Our Premium Tier products feature lasting designs in timeless styles. Made of high-quality materials, Premium Tier products are the ideal choice for an excellent investment that’s made to last. Some upgrade features may be included.
Take Your Dream Home Plans to the Next Level
DIY Design was never meant to always be a “Do it ALL by Yourself” kind of thing. For any space, indoors or out, a home design upgrade should never feel overwhelming.
Nothing makes an outdoor space more enjoyable than exterior solar shades to keep the harmful UV rays out of your face, while keeping your patio or deck area cool. Select Blinds is all about supporting you, all the way from start to finish. We offer you all the helpful resources you’ll need to make your life (and projects) easier, because your success is our success! Make your dream home ALL YOURS as you custom-craft it, without breaking your budget. As you sharpen those interior DIY design instincts, you will save plenty of money and enjoy the satisfaction of creating something special.
Check out our FREE interior design consulting as just another way we can support you from start to finish. Get tips, color guidance, product recommendations, solutions to the problems you may encounter, etc. Call us today at (855) 235-3120 to take advantage of our free design consultation resources.
Free Samples. Free Shipping. Free Design Consulting. Every Day. Only atSelectBlinds.com.
Maybe your personal design taste calls for a traditional window style, or perhaps for something more modern. Regardless of what your personal style dictates, or what your budget is, we at SelectBlinds are pleased to tell you that we have the perfect custom solution for you. We offer you more than 170 different customizable products, in a selection of over 1800 colors, with countless feature combinations, upgrades, and add-ons available. Did we already say that we can make any budget happy?
You might not want window coverings that are merely functional. You might want something stylish, as well. It will likely be great news to you that you can enjoy window shades that are stylish and also that function smoothly, the way you want and need them to! What would work best in your home?
What Is the Difference Between Shades and Blinds?
First, though the two terms are often used interchangeably, let’s distinguish shades from blinds.
Basically, shades hang down from the top of a window to the bottom, but they feature a solid, continuous surface that covers the window, and which can be raised or lowered to open up the view outward or to cover up for privacy. Shades are commonly crafted using fabrics, bamboo/woven woods, lightweight cellular material, and sheer fabrics. Curtains, though not technically shades, have similar qualities, in that they’re a solid, hanging surface that covers your windows.
Blinds are also hanging window treatments, but they feature either horizontal or vertical slats that can be tilted open or closed, usually with some sort of mechanism. Different kinds of blinds are crafted using various materials, including wood, faux wood, aluminum, and PVC.
What Types of Shades and Curtains Are In Style?
Here are some examples of popular styles of shades and curtains, ranging from traditional to less traditional.
Roller Shades – Regardless of how you roll — casual, modern, Farmhouse — there are custom roller shades to match your unique sense of style. Layer roll-up window coverings in colors, textures, and patterns that fit any interior design.
Cellular / Honeycomb Shades – Keep the home vibe cool, calm, and quiet with energy-efficient cellular shades. With kid-friendly cordless lift options, they’re the safest choice for homes with little ones and/or pets.
Roman Shades – Can you be trendy and traditional at the same time? Of course! For example, take the classic, customizable Roman shade. This luxurious fabric window covering never goes out of style and works with the trendiest interiors.
Bamboo / Woven Wood Shades – Get your home Pinterest perfect with these natural-looking custom bamboo / woven wood shades in your windows. Personalize them even more with your own lined option selections for more light & privacy control.
Dual / Zebra Shades – Your home is your showcase. Show off your unique taste with stylish, unique sheer zebra shades. Enjoy the ease of a roller with the look of a horizontal blind to add dimension and texture to windows. Watch them operate, and you’ll be sold!
Solar Shades – You love bright sunlight streaming through your windows. And who wouldn’t? Too much of a good thing can be a bad thing, though. Harmful UV rays can fade furnishings. Custom interior solar shades can help.
Exterior Solar Shades – Keep your cool and enjoy your patio and decks longer. Beat the heat while protecting your outdoor furnishings with a weather-resistant custom cordless exterior solar sun shade. You’ll also maintain your exterior view!
Skylight Shades – Whether you live in a tiny house or a mansion, a skylight window is a feature worth showcasing. Show it off right with custom, sun-blocking shades that fit your style. Motorization options are available to make your life easier.
Arched Window Shades – Do coverings for your arched windows seem out of reach? Not with these custom shades for arched windows. Light filtering or blackout fabrics add function and elegance to even the highest arched windows. Motorization options are available to make your life easier.
How Often Do You Need to Replace Your Window Treatments?
Image courtesy of Noby Howell, @howell.home
Quality shades, curtains, blinds, or shutters can last for several years (especially when installed correctly and maintained regularly), and there is no hard rule of thumb regarding how often you should replace them. Basically, replace them as needed, and according to your personal preference, as trends and fashions change and evolve.
Follow manufacturer directions when using and maintaining your window treatments, in order to preserve them as long as possible. Dust and/or wipe them down on a regular basis. Thoroughly clean your window treatments at least twice annually in order to reduce heavy dust accumulation. Curtains tend to be somewhat easier to maintain, as they can be removed for laundering, dry cleaning, or steaming as you need to.
Select Blinds Staff Recommendations for Your Space
If you’re looking for some recommendations for your home, be sure to keep on reading. We’ve made selections from each of our product tiers for you, to offer you excellent, customizable design solutions for any taste and budget. Spend some time window shopping to see what we have to offer!
Sleep better (and longer!) with budget-saving blackout roller shades crafted with flame-retardant vinyl fiberglass and then laminated with another layer of vinyl for extra strength and durability.
Less cluttered, kid-safe, budget-friendly, and simply stylish, these energy-efficient cordless cellulars are the perfect finishing touch to any window and design aesthetic.
Upgrade your windows with these trend-setting favorites! Clutter-free, stylish, and affordable, there’s virtually no limit to how good your windows will look.
*Our Essential Tier products include simple designs in familiar styles. Made of materials known for strength, and easy cleaning, Essential Tier products are a great starting point for first-time homeowners or renters that are looking for budget-friendly solutions.
Alternating wide and narrow bands of durable, easy-care fabric combine to give this modern light control window treatment its distinctive zebra-stripe appearance.
Picture these luminous, custom-made sheer fabric window treatments blocking up to 99% of UV rays when closed and up to 88% when open to help protect your furniture and interior, and to gently diffuse light.
*Our Signature Tier products feature thoughtful designs in trendy styles. Made with durable materials, Signature Tier products are the perfect place to start when looking for a beyond-basic solution that is also affordable.
See it all more clearly inside and out with these interior solar shades. The 5% openness of the fade resistant fabric helps reduce harsh incoming light so you can still enjoy your outward views.
Elevate your outdoor experience with the convenience and ease-of-use of these motorized solars. Plus, they come with a gorgeous oil-rubbed valance along with cable tie-downs!
The perfect combination of fashion and function with these visually tantalizing jewel-toned window drapes. Manage light and privacy in style. Perfect for any room’s interior design.
*Our Premium Tier products feature lasting designs in timeless styles. Made of high-quality materials, Premium Tier products are the ideal choice for an excellent investment that’s made to last. Some upgrade features may be included.
Your hard-to-reach skylight windows should be a breeze to cover with these room-darkening honeycomb shades. Several alluring colors, with optional motorization and other upgrades!
You’ll love this modern and functional solution for your arched windows in light-filtering fabric that comes in a wide selection of colors. A custom fit for even the most uniquely shaped arched windows.
*Our Luxury Tier products include superior design in distinct styles. Made with unique materials and quality craftsmanship. Luxury Tier products are for the homeowner looking to indulge in sophisticated customization. Some upgrade features are included.
Take More Control Over How Your Dream Home Turns Out
DIY Design never meant “Do it ALL by Yourself.” For any space, a home design upgrade should never feel intimidating.
Nothing makes a space look warmer and more inviting than beautiful new window treatments, and Select Blinds is all about supporting you, all the way from start to finish. We offer you tons of helpful resources to make your life (and projects) easier, because we’re invested in your success! Make your dream home ALL YOURS as you custom-craft it into your dream home, without breaking your budget. As you sharpen those interior DIY design instincts, you can save yourself plenty of money in the process.
Check out our FREE interior design consulting as just another way we can support you from start to finish. Get tips, color guidance, product recommendations, solutions to the problems you may encounter, etc. Call us today at (855) 235-3120 to take advantage of our free design consultation resources.
Free Samples. Free Shipping. Free Design Consulting. Every Day. Only atSelectBlinds.com.
Motorized blinds or shades, for the interior or exterior, add an extra touch of elegance coupled with convenience to your daily use. Motorization (or automation) upgrades allow you to raise and lower your shades with just the touch of the button – automation lets you pre-program them to open and close at certain times, or under certain conditions, so that you don’t even need to think about it. Motorized blinds and shades are also kid- and pet-friendly, to keep your little ones (and furry ones) safe, while you keep your outdoor space uncluttered.
Motorization is not just for convenience within reach, it’s also an excellent solution for blinds and shades installed high up (like for skylights or tall windows), or for anyone at home who may need assistance due to limited mobility. No more stretching, struggling with heavy blinds or shades, or step-ladders.
Consider the Following to Cover Your Outdoor Spaces With Exterior Solar Shades
Whenever the heat of summer arrives and the sun begins beckoning us outside for lounging and pool time, custom exterior solar shades are the perfect way to:
Keep cool
Block out harsh UV rays
Maintain privacy
Protect your outdoor furniture from fading and other sun damage
Custom outdoor solar shades are made of durable PVC material, that reflects light and heat away from the shade, allowing you the convenience not only of keeping cool and private, but also of maintaining your outward view.
Exterior solar shades can come in a wide variety of lift styles, but because of their width and exposure to the elements, the safest, and easiest to install, are roller-style exterior solars. Sun shades for outdoor spaces have varying degrees of UV blockage, so you can discover the perfect amount of sunlight you want to filter through. Solar shades offer 1%, 3%, 5%, 8%, 10% and 14% levels of openness to enjoy your convenient motorized solar shades. In some parts of the country, exterior shade isn’t even an option, it’s a necessity (like sunblock). The only thing better than cool custom exterior solar shades, are motorized or automated exterior solar shades!
Keep in mind: 1% Openness= 99% of Harmful UV Rays Blocked = Option that offers the most shade.
Select Blinds Staff Recommendations
To help you meet all your outdoor shade and privacy needs during the long, hot poolside days of summer, we recommend:
Get the best of customized exterior solar shade protection, as well as the convenience of motorization, with the convenience and ease-of-use these motorized exterior solar shades offer. They include a gorgeous oil-rubbed valance and cable tie-downs!
Motorization specifications:
Standard motorization features a 15-channel remote, including one CR2430 battery, that can power up to fifteen (15) individual or fifteen groups of window treatments.
Remote range will function inside up to 65 ft away from shade and outside up to 656 ft away from shade.
A full battery charge can last up to 6 months based on an average-sized shade raised and lowered once daily.
Remember, you can get your shades custom-crafted for just about any size you might need for your outdoor space coverage, up to 10 feet wide and up to 8 feet high.
More “DIY” To Turn Your House Into Your Dream Home
Whether for an indoor space or outdoor space, don’t let a home design upgrade project intimidate you. We’re here to support you all the way from start to finish with helpful resources to make your life easier. Your success is our success! Make your house ALL YOURS as you custom-craft it into your dream home. No need to break the bank to do it, either. Sharpen those interior DIY design instincts, and save yourself plenty of money in the process. And we got you! Free interior design consulting is just another way we can support you in all your home upgrade projects. Tips, color guidance, product recommendations, etc. Call us today at (888) 314-1133 to take advantage of our free design consultation resources.
With custom window treatments easily and smartly installed, you can help turn your outdoor patio area into a calm, cool sanctuary to enjoy when it’s scorching outside.
Free samples. Free shipping. Free design consulting. Every Day. Only atSelectBlinds.com.
What to do about your kitchen windows? Different rooms in your home have different needs when it comes to window treatments, but think about all the time you spend in your kitchen, in particular.
Treat Your Kitchen Windows
The kitchen is often referred to as the “heart of your home,” where you spend so much time with your family and friends talking, eating meals, telling stories, joking around, celebrating holidays, etc. You rely on your kitchen’s window treatments to not only serve certain functions, but also to look good while doing so. You’ll spend a lot of time seeing your kitchen window coverings, so you want to take extra care that you “treat” those windows just right.
Kitchen Window Treatments: Some Considerations
For starters, you need your kitchen window treatments to be durable and easy to clean – but remember, you also want your kitchen blinds, shutters, or shades to look good and make your kitchen feel welcoming. You can control the amount of light coming into your kitchen, as well as your privacy as needed, all to fit your personal lifestyle.
Faux Wood Kitchen Blinds and Shutters
Faux wood blinds and shutters are definitely durable and built to last, but even better, they are perfect for areas of high moisture and dampness, because they won’t warp, split, or crack over time. Plus they offer the elegant look of real wood blinds. They are also super easy to keep clean. Simply wipe down with a soapy, damp cloth or rag, and then with a dry cloth.
Roller Shades
No matter what your sense of style, there’s a custom roller shade that you’ll love. Highly functional, great at keeping the light out, and with a familiar, classic look. Get creative in the way you express your own individual aesthetic.They are also easy to care for and to clean, especially those rollers made of synthetic materials.
Solar Shades
If blocking out the harsh incoming glare is of concern to you to keep the sun out of your eyes and also to help preserve your interior furniture, you may consider solar shades as an option for your kitchen.
You can select from sheer to opaque and anywhere in-between. Solar shades are usually made from PVC, which means they’re super easy to clean and maintain, and also that they’ll last for several years.
Bamboo / Woven Wood
Another viable option for kitchen window treatments comes in the form of shades made with bamboo or woven woods. Just be careful which window you use them for (keep them away from behind the sink or near the stove), because if they get wet, they will start to gradually come apart. The materials used to make them, like bamboo, grasses, reeds and jutes, help soften the look of your kitchen appliances. Also, they’re known to hold their shape over time, even if you get a lot of sun in your kitchen. Cleaning bamboo is easy, as you can regularly just wipe off dust with a damp rag.
Cellular Shades
Cellular shades (sometimes referred to as honeycomb shades) are designed to insulate against outdoor heat and cold by trapping heat inside their single- or double-layer honeycomb “pockets.” This helps conserve energy and reduce your energy bills throughout the year. Cellular shades can also insulate against and soften outdoor noise when your children are playing outside, or you’re entertaining guests.
As far as “cleanability” goes, cellulars are relatively easy to keep clean. Simply dust or vacuum them off regularly. From time to time, you may want to have your shades professionally cleaned, as they are prone to gather various scents and smells over time. Along with Roman shades, cellulars are also not the best choice as a treatment for the window over the kitchen sink, as they do not do well in moist/damp environments.
Need Some Inspiration?
To help you, here are some of Select Blinds’ most popular options for kitchen window treatments:
The idea of minimalism encompasses a return to simplicity. Reducing the number of objects in your living space, to leave only the most necessary of items. Less clutter to make the most of your available space.
Crisp lines, maybe some quieter color tones, and the silent allure that define minimalism have been shown to nurture a healthier sense of stillness and well-being.
Maybe Zen isn’t exactly your thing, but consider the relaxing benefits of keeping objects and clutter to a minimum in your home. Everything in its place, without anything you don’t need. Imagine minimalist window treatments to keep things simple, practical, and aesthetically beautiful. Here are three tips to help you bring that kind of minimalist feel into your home.
Minimalist window treatments like rollers give your windows a nice, clean finish, without bulkiness or clutter.
1. Minimalist Window Treatments Should Be Functional
Minimalist design emphasizes the importance of every included element in a space having a tangible, practical function.
Think about the simplistic elegance of roller shades. Cordless (especially motorized) roller shades crisply pull down to where you need them with just a gentle tug. No cords, no clutter. Top Down Bottom Up cellular/honeycomb shades work in a similar manner, but with some additional applications. You can get your TDBU cellulars to open from the top down also, offering you plenty of outdoor light, and privacy at the same time. They also provide a soundproofing effect for a quieter interior, and they are energy-efficient at the same time.
Shutters offer a nice minimalist look and feel as well. Throughout the day, you can tilt the louvers exactly where you need them to be for the right amount of lighting that you want. Whenever you need to, just shut the louvers completely for full privacy. Let the full light in with a wide open view when you swing open the panels entirely.
Shutters offer quick control of incoming light as well as privacy when you need it.
Solar shades not only offer a crisp, minimalist look (like roller shades), but they also help protect your floors, furniture, and framed items from the harsh incoming UV rays. And they help preserve your view.
Fabrics vary in openness factor (typically 1% to 14%) to increase UV protection and reduce glare or to allow a better outward view when they’re closed. For rooms where you want some natural light coming in, but you want to maintain privacy at the same time, they’re perfect.
And don’t forget bamboo/woven woods. What could be more Zen/minimalist looking than natural bamboo minimalist window treatments?
2. Minimalist Window Treatments Should Be Set in Close to Your Window
One thing minimalist designers make a point to do is to use as little space as possible. They might implement a desk or table, but without bulky lamps, large plants, or “clutter-ey” items to throw the clean, tight design off-kilter. In a similar manner, minimalist window treatments should be set in snugly to the window, without fussy cords, frills, or fabric spilling outward and onto the floor.
Roller shades, cellular shades, shutters, bamboos, and solar shades all lend themselves well to this idea of physical closeness to their windows. Remember that “minimalism” implies being direct in your design, and that “less is more.”
You can’t beat the natural look and feel of bamboo/woven wood shades for a perfect minimalist finishing touch.
Speaking of set close to your window: Similar to the textures offered by cellular shades, panel tracks can offer a warm, personal touch with various options in textured upholstery and fabrics, in a variety of colors, including neutrals.
Since a tight fit is important for your minimalist vibe, note that custom panels can very elegantly frame your windows, while offering ample cover. Just remember not to let saggy fabric or uneven floor gaps between panels throw off the precision of your minimalist look.
Panel tracks meet all the criteria you could want for minimalist window coverings, and they beautifully provide cover for large/wide windows and glass doors.
3. Minimalist Window Treatments Don’t Have To Be Neutral
Minimalist designs have been traditionally known to utilize neutral whites, blacks, and grays. But this isn’t a requirement. Consider eye-catching splashes of color, including on your minimalist window treatments. Color can really add some nice accents especially if the furniture in your room features a neutral palette. Without color, your space can look and feel cold and impersonal. If you already have some color accents (e.g., rugs, furniture, pillows), neutral window treatments might be the way to go.
Select Blinds Staff Recommendations
Here are some minimalist window treatments our staff loves and offers as recommendations.
With the wide variety of fabrics, textures, styles, and colors available to you, finding the perfect custom minimalist window treatments should be a breeze.
