Blog

October 17, 2019 Blinds Brothers

What is a Valance? Key Differences Between Cornices and Valances

It can be challenging to know proper window treatment terminology. You may feel confused when trying to understand the difference between a valance and a cornice. Both of them can provide a decorative appearance at the top of windows in a home. There are significant differences between them, however, and they cannot be used interchangeably.

What Is A Valance?

A valance resembles a short drapery panel. It is designed to sit only at the top of a window. It can be installed using a drapery or curtain rod. A valance can also be stapled to a backboard. It is designed to have a soft appearance. A valance can also provide a formal or casual appearance. This will depend on the style of the room where it is being utilized. The fabric hanging freely at a window’s top will quickly create interest. This increases when a valance is paired with another type of window treatment. When on a window is by itself, a valance can provide the appearance of a fully decked out window. This is important when a person doesn’t want to block a great view provided by a window but still has a desire to create some type of visual interest. A simple valance is considered one of the most casual and basic window treatments available.

What Is A Cornice?

This is known as a hardtop treatment. It is often done by upholstering a shaped board. Fabric is placed on a cornice, and it is then pulled tight. The fabric is not able to hang loose at the bottom as part of the window treatment. You can have your cornice made into any size or shape. They can be created with two or more fabrics. Some of them will also come with contrasting welt trim. Certain types of cornices are made completely out of wood and aren’t upholstered. With a wood cornice, it can have certain features like crown molding and other different types of applied trims. Some can come with other types of decorative details.

Differences Between Cornices And Valances

Both a cornice and a valance provide window treatment in very different ways. If someone is interested in hiding the hardware of window treatment or trying to add some color to a room, a cornice is a wonderful addition to a home’s interior design. The major difference between a cornice and valance is how they are constructed. A cornice is a hard top treatment. The fabric utilized with this window treatment is designed to upholster a board with no fabric hanging loosely to the bottom. A cornice comes in many different sizes and shapes. They can be used with a variety of different fabrics for any look you want for the windows in a room.

The Bottom Line on Valences and Cornices

Some people prefer to have windows with the structured appearance provided by a cornice. In other situations, valances provide the soft feel that often works well with the windows in rooms. These two different window treatments provide you with flexibility in creating interest in the entire wall where a window is located. Contact Blinds Brothers today to get your free estimate on all kinds of window treatments.

August 15, 2019 Blinds Brothers

How to Hang a Porch Swing or Hammock Chair

There is something magically about good weather and swinging slowly in a hammock chair or porch swing while the breeze blows. They add instant charm to a home and hours of enjoyment for adults and children. And they are easy to install. Here is a simple guide with step by step instruction on how to hang a porch swing.

Steps for Hanging a Porch Swing or Hammock Chair

Find an Ideal Location

As with most furniture in and around a home, finding the ideal location for a swing will add both longevity to the swing and enjoyment. First, consider the porch swing distance from the wall. You will need at least 14 inches of clearance on either side of the swing to prevent any accidental damage or bumping, and we recommend 3 to 4 feet of space in front and behind to allow the swing to swing.

Additionally, just like heavy artwork needs to be anchored in a wall stud, the swing will need to be screwed into a ceiling joist. These are easily located using a stud finder.

Install Screws

When installing the screws, measure the length of the swing or chair and add approximately 4 inches (10 cm). This will evenly distribute the weight over the joist. Locate the center of the joist and drill pilot holes approximately 3 inches (8 cm) deep into the joist. Use a drill bit slightly smaller than the screws. Next, twist the eye screw carefully into the pilot hole so that the wood does not splinter or crack. Ensure all the threading locks into the wood, and if necessary, use a screwdriver to twist the screw securely. Finally, install the S-hook or Carabiner into the screw

Attach Chains or Rope

Depending on what your swing or chair came with and your own personal aesthetic, you can hang the swing from either chains or rope. Ensure that the rope or chain will hold 300 pounds (136.08 kg) if using something from your local hardware store. Adjust the length of the chain or rope so that the swing hangs at a comfortable sitting height. Remove any excess.

Enjoy

With the swing now installed, it’s time to sit back and enjoy a cold glass of lemonade, read that summer book you’ve been meaning to get to, or simply people-watch. With proper installation, a swing or hammock chair can be enjoyed by everyone for years to come.

Swing in the Shade

It can be relaxing to lounge on your porch swing or hammock chair in the sun for a while. After a while, though, you’ll start to get hot. We recommend installing shades or shutters in the same area. This way you can control when you get sun, and when you’re in the shade.

Contact Blinds Brothers today for more information on indoor and outdoor shades and shutters.

June 19, 2019 Blinds Brothers

Blinds vs Curtains: Key Differences and When to Use Each

Choosing blinds or curtains for living room depends on your furnishings and style of your home. When it comes to the faceoff of blinds vs curtains, curtains are often made of fabric while blinds come in a wide variety of styles. There are several factors to consider when deciding between curtains and blinds. One of the most important factors is cost.

Blinds Vs Curtains

Both blinds and curtains are seen in most households across the country. Blinds usually come with a headrail, a bottom rail, and adjustable slats. They’re often used to keep out light and for privacy. They can also be used to open up and allow light into your home.

Blinds are the most affordable window covering options. If you’re on a budget and shopping for new window coverings, then you should look into blinds. Aluminum mini blinds and faux wood blinds are stylish and fit in with everyone’s budget. Since blinds run on individual slats, they can be easily repaired.

Broken blinds are often easy to fix if they get damaged. If the slats are broken, then they can be glued together or replaced. Aluminum blinds and faux wood blinds are also easy to clean and maintain, which makes them less likely to fade or stain over time than other types of window coverings.

Curtains are often used for a decorative purpose. Unlike blinds, curtains are often installed outside of the window and may only cover a small portion of the window. They often can become a focal point of a bedroom. Some curtains are short and only reach the bottom of the window sill while others touch the floor.

You can use curtains and blinds. Curtains can be used to protect your blinds. When you’re combining them, you’re prolonging the life of both of these window treatments. Curtains also act as dust repellants. While you still should clean them on a regular basis, they’re easier to remove.

Curtains are the perfect complement to your blinds. They can also add an interesting element to the colors, patterns, and textures of the materials used in your blinds. They’re also ideal for adding color to any space.

Costs & Installation

The cost for blinds or curtains depends on the materials, quality, and whether they’re easy to install. Curtains are usually made from cotton or a cotton blend and often cost less than $10. Curtains cost $1,000 and up when they’re made from woven linen or other luxurious fabrics. Blinds cost as low as $8 without installation.

Both blinds and curtains are ideal for DIY projects or with someone who feels comfortable with most basic tools, home improvement projects, and skills. If you hire a professional to install your blinds, then the labor could cost between $160 to $750 depending on the materials used.

The installation of curtains ranges from $400 to $600 for most DIY projects. Professional installation can range from $2,000 to $5,000. Whether you want to install curtains or blinds, it’s best to have professional installers take several measurements since they can’t always guarantee the fit. Contact Blinds Brothers today to get your free estimate.

May 24, 2019 Blog

How to Choose the Best Sliding Patio Door Blinds

Sliding patio doors are a great addition to any home. They brighten up the room and give your home a lot of style. However, they also reduce privacy and may let in more sunlight than desired. Luckily, there is a wide array of sliding door blinds to choose from. Understanding exactly what you need and what options work best for you are key to choosing the best sliding door blinds for your home.

Choosing the Best Blinds for Your Sliding Patio Doors

Before you seek out blinds for your sliding patio doors, there are certain factors to consider to help you make your choice. Are the blinds more for privacy, light control or both? Is energy efficiency important to you? How much money are you willing to spend on your patio door blinds? What styles and colors match the rest of the room?

Cellular Honeycomb Shades

Anyone looking for energy efficiency, privacy, and light reduction would greatly benefit from cellular honeycomb shades on their sliding patio doors. They don’t require cords in order to be operated, making them very convenient and safe around children as well.

The main downside to cellular honeycomb blinds is their lack of versatility. You have very little control over how much light is entering the room. Another disadvantage lies in their aesthetic. Cellular honeycomb shades look and feel more like parchment than fabric, which doesn’t tend to compliment the décor in many houses.

Sliding Panels

Those seeking a sleek and modern look will love sliding panel blinds. They come in a wide variety of materials, they’re easy to use and they can be thick and dark enough to act as blackout blinds or thin and bright enough to see outside.

However, like cellular honeycomb panels, they’re not very versatile in regards to regulating light. The tracks for sliding panel blinds also need to be cleaned and properly maintained to keep the panels from getting stuck.

Horizontal Blinds

The easiest to install, cheapest and one of the most common options for patio door blinds is horizontal blinds. Since horizontal blinds are already commonly used on windows to begin with, they usually match room décor very well.

Horizontal blinds are very tricky to clean, however, and they tend to collect dust more than any other shading option. The operating cords are also a hazard to children.

Vertical Blinds

Just as cost-effective and easy to install as horizontal blinds, vertical blinds are another very common option for patio doors. In addition, their sliding operation and vertical design make them a great match with sliding patio doors. They’re also easy to clean and don’t collect much dust.

On the negative side, vertical patio door blinds can be a nuisance around pets and small children, and it’s slightly difficult to get the slats placed properly.

Drapes

Installing drapes on your sliding patio door is incredibly easy, and they offer the most options in regards to color and style. Drapes are also not as susceptible to damage as blinds, and they can be repaired more easily.

However, drapes are a magnet for dust and fur. They need to be washed or vacuumed fairly regularly to avoid stains and mold.

Conclusion

No matter which kind of sliding patio door blinds you choose, they’ll be sure to add style and privacy to your home. Contact Blinds Brothers today for more help in picking the best patio door blinds for you!

April 30, 2019 Blog

What is the Difference Between Blinds and Plantation Shutters?

Difference between blinds and plantation shutters

Occasionally, people shopping for window treatments have misconceptions about blinds and plantation shutters. The terms are not interchangeable, and if you want to avoid confusion while you’re shopping around, you should know the difference. Even more confusing is the fact that different cultures use a combination of terms, like “plantation blinds” instead of plantation shutters. The difference between blinds and plantation shutters concerns many different areas such as decor choices, energy efficiency, and cost. Once you know what you’re looking for in these aspects, the choice might become a lot easier for you.

Window Shades and Blinds

Window shades and blinds were originally placed on spring-loaded rollers and mounted on the top frame of windows. As time progressed, materials were updated and pull-strings or motorized lifts were added. Blinds can now be made from synthetic materials that capture the look of wood or fabric. They can also be made of thin-gauge metal, such as aluminum.

Plantation Shutters

Plantation shutters are permanently mounted on the interior side frames of windows. They are almost always made from wood, but there are varieties that use other solid materials. Polymer is a new product that mimics the look of wood and gives many of the same benefits as wood. Opening out from the center, plantation shutters use vertical stiles and horizontal rails to control the amount of light released.

Decorative Uses

Blinds have long been used for privacy in homes. Once hand-painted with scenes, manufacturing and automation replaced this time-consuming measure. Slats, cellular pockets, and fabric-based Roman shades are a few examples of what you can find in today’s window blinds. Colors and patterns can be woven into window shades to match the decor of a room.

Although plantation shutters are classically light in color, they can be stained or painted to match any room. They add a modern look with straight sleek lines and sturdy material. Plantation shutters stay perfectly aligned, never losing their shape. Homes wanting an upscale look will often opt for plantation shutters over blinds.

Energy Efficiency

Blinds come in a variety of shapes and materials, with some being more energy-efficient than others. For instance, honeycomb shades came on the market in the 1970s as an answer to the energy crisis. The fabric design helps to trap cold or hot air inside the spaces and control the interior temperature. Slatted blinds do little to conserve energy except for the fact that they cover the window’s surface.

Plantation shutters are high in energy efficiency. Because they are custom-made to fit snugly against a frame, they have better control over airflow. The vertical stiles allow the user to close the shutters when temperatures are high or low outdoors. Whether you elect for blinds or plantation shutters, both should be installed properly in order to get the best protection possible.

Cost

One significant difference between blinds and plantation shutters is price. Wood plantation blinds can run into the range of hundreds of dollars per window. Blinds, on the other hand, can be found in relatively inexpensive varieties, like vinyl slatted ones. Depending on the number of features you want, window shades can become pricey, but hardly ever as much as wood plantation shutters.

As you can see, the difference between blinds and plantation shutters is a matter that requires careful choices. Think about what matches your home decor and your energy needs. And when you’ve zeroed in your pick, contact Blinds Brothers. We’ll get you started with a free estimate and help you out along every step of the window outfitting process.

April 2, 2019 Blog

What Shades Are Best for Privacy?

Best privacy shades

Aside from performing the vital tasks of heat and energy management, your window treatments can also perform other vital functions. One such function is providing privacy, acting as the all-important barrier between prying eyes and you. If you’re in the market for privacy shades, you’ve probably been wondering about what kind will work the best in your home. With that in mind, we’ve put together a few of the types of window treatments that have been proven to get the job done in a stylish and efficient manner.

Wooden Shutters

Slatted wood shutters make for a good mix of privacy and light permeation. Plantation-style shutters are attractive window treatments that come in a variety of styles and finishes. When you decide you don’t want anyone looking in, the slats can be adjusted, similar to mini-blinds. Find the right angle, and you may even get a degree of one-way visibility – you’ll be able to see outside, but passersby trying to look inside won’t see anything.

Faux Wood Blinds

Speaking of wood: If you like the look of it, give faux wood blinds a chance. Many faux wood blinds are designed for very tight closure, allowing greater privacy and control over how much light gets through. The synthetic wood can often be cheaper than the genuine article, while also resisting warping. These blinds may seem simple, but they can be a good option for a practical homeowner who isn’t looking to overcomplicate things.

Roller Shades

If you can rely on roller shades to darken a room, chances are you can also rely on them to act as privacy shades. They provide a clean, seamless look that still allows light to filter through. To fully customize the degree of privacy, make sure you’re weighing the options presented by different fabrics, liners, and layers.

Honeycomb Shades

Also known as cellular shades, honeycomb shades are designed to filter and/or completely block light. This effect is obviously negated if you choose a sheer fabric, but with the majority of other fabrics, you can rely on them for privacy. Additionally, using a top-down/bottom-up lift system adds a degree of control. Do you want a bit of light coming in through the top of a window while keeping the bottom secluded? This is the perfect option to make it happen.

Woven Shades

These are the privacy shades to select if you want a more naturalistic look. Woven from organic materials like bamboo, reeds, and grasses, they’re surprisingly durable and can be customized for blocking outside views into your home. Choose a privacy liner, and your windows will be all set. Privacy shades are necessary for any security-focused homeowner. If you’re not satisfied with your windows and the lines of sight they allow into your home, contact Blinds Brothers today. We’ll get you started on the path to safety, security, and stylish window treatments.

June 25, 2017 Blog

Keep Your Outdoor Area Cool This Summer

It’s summer here in Texas and its time for hosting parties, grilling out and enjoying the outdoors with family and friends. Don’t let the hot summer sun ruin your plans. With the right exterior shades or shutters, you can stay outside comfortably and greatly enhance your time spent outdoors. Blinds Brothers offers two options for creating the perfect outdoor oasis for back porches, covered patios or other outdoor structures.

Enjoy the outdoors any time of day regardless of outside temperature or weather forecast with these two great options: TerraVue Outdoor Shades or Weatherwell Elite Aluminum Shutters.

Motorized Exterior Shades

TerraVue Outdoor Shades enclose your outdoor area to protect from all sorts of elements, including heat, rain, and wind. Enjoy cooler weather at the press of a button with motorized screens that can start or stop at any height to give you the ultimate control over your outdoor ambiance. These screens also shut out bugs and add privacy with shades you can see out of but can not see through from the outside.

TerraVue Outdoor Shades can do much more than just cutting down on the sunlight and heat. They are weather resistant to reduce incoming rain and snow while staying safe in their sturdy metal housing. The shade also prevents UV rays from damaging porch furniture, decor, and outdoor fixtures that often fade, crack and peel under the harsh Texas sunlight.

Maintaining your exterior shade is as simple as giving it a clean once every other year and following some basic instructions. Your sturdy, quality-designed product can last for years upon years with just a minimal amount of TLC.

Keep Your Outdoor Area Cool This Summer -Exterior Shades and Shutters Blinds Brothers

The Top Benefits of TerraVue Outdoor Shades:

Keep out insects and pests
Enjoy added privacy
Retractable exterior screens keep the breezes flowing with permeable design
Protect porch furniture
Custom installation with every job for a seamless fit
Design consultation to blend with your home’s style
Custom shade opacities for different levels of sunlight
Different color options to give your home the perfect look
Outdoor Aluminum Shutters

Outdoor Aluminum Shutters

Weatherwell Elite’s cutting edge design is equipped to handle the toughest treatments from the sun. Every aspect of their design has been mastered to create the most efficient aluminum louver. With many installation methods available, it is up to you how open or closed you want the louvers. Control the entry of natural light, heat, and sun from the outside to protect your outdoor living area.

Another great feature of Weatherwell Elite Aluminum Shutters is that they can retract to completely open your outdoor space up to enjoy the views, leave them closed to stay comfortable or adjust to let the right amount of light into your space.

Weatherwell Elite is a versatile product designed to alleviate many problems because of its multi-installation options and its ability to withstand the elements. An outdoor area completed with Weatherwell Elite is both an investment and a solution.

Top Benefits of Weatherwell Elite Aluminum Shutters

Create an outdoor room with an outdoor kitchen
Added privacy
Add shutters for security screens with their safety options
Give strength and durability in high traffic areas with kids or pets
Custom installation with every job for a seamless fit
Design consultation to blend with your home’s style
- Different shutter color options to give your home the perfect look
- Powder Coat (White, Pearl, Silver, Black)
- Wood Grain Powdercoat (Knotty Pine and Walnut)
Multiple Blade Sizes
Installation options: Fixed, hinged, multi-fold or sliding

Contact Us Today

For more information on how the Blinds Brothers can help improve your outdoor space contact us today for a free consultation or call us at 682-727-0044. Click here to discover more about improving your home with our outdoor living options.

May 9, 2017 Blog

Benefits of Choosing Custom Window Treatments

With so many options for window treatments out there, choosing the right one can be a daunting task. You may have a hard time just knowing where to start. The first decision you must make, and possibly the most important, is whether to purchase custom or prefabricated window treatments. If you choose custom window treatments you will have a professional, like Blinds Brothers, help you find the perfect window treatment for your home or business. Here are a few benefits of choosing Custom Window Treatments over prefabricated.

Style & Design Options

With prefabricated window treatments, there are limits on options and you could have trouble finding the right treatment for your taste and needs. With custom window treatments, whether Blinds, Shutters or Shades, you will have a larger selection of colors, patterns, and styles to choose from; ensuring you will find the right treatment for your window. An expert consultant will help you narrow down options that best fit your taste and lifestyle.

Attention to Detail

Rest assured your custom window treatments will fit perfectly because a professional will precisely measure and install. A professional window consultant will have your blinds, shades or shutters made based on the exact measurements they take. Also, it may be difficult to find prefabricated window treatments that fit your windows especially if you have larger or more unique shaped windows, like arches. With custom treatments, you don’t have to worry about cutting down pre-made blinds or shades. Let a professional make custom window treatments created and installed just for you.

Features

When you choose custom you will be able to add features often not offered with prefabricated window treatments. You may want to add beautiful decorative trim or tape to match your home’s decor. Also, you can add innovative features to meet your specific needs and enhance your windows like motorization, child safety, energy efficiency, eco-friendly, room darkening and more. When you’re able to customize the possibilities for your windows are endless. Professionals like Blinds Brothers stay to update and educated on the newest and most innovative features offered so they can educate and introduce you to features you may not have considered.

Choose Custom Window Treatments from Blinds Brothers

Let Blinds Brothers help you find the perfect window treatments for your taste and needs. Find the perfect window treatment for your home, office or outdoor area by viewing our inspiration gallery of interior and exterior blinds, shades, and shutters. Contact Blind Brothers to schedule your free consultation today.