Vertical Blinds vs Horizontal Blinds

Torn between what type of window blinds to choose for your home? Check out how horizontal and vertical blinds stack up against some major considerations, such as window size, light control, and more.

Why Vertical Blinds May Be Right For Your Home

Decorating your home can be an exciting adventure, but it also requires many decisions along the way. Picking window treatments, for example, can be overwhelming because there are so many styles, colors, materials and features to choose from when creating the right look for your home. If you've chosen to dress your windows with window blinds, a good place to start is deciding whether you prefer to use vertical or horizontal blinds.The main difference between horizontal and vertical blinds is the direction the slats are oriented in. As the name suggests, vertical blinds have slats that run up and down. They open by sliding to either side of the window. Horizontal blinds, on the other hand, run side to side and typically have a cord or chain that allows you to pull the entire shade up. When choosing window blinds for your home, here are some helpful things to consider:

Window Size

If you're torn between vertical or horizontal blinds, consider the size of your windows. For large, broad windows or doors, horizontal blinds may not be a practical option as they can be too heavy or take up too much space when they contract at the top. As such, vertical blinds may be a better option as they can easily slide to the side and give you a beautiful, unobstructed view through your windows or doors.

Light Control

One of the main functions of window blinds is to allow for light control. Horizontal slats can provide you with some amount of light control; however, their narrow shape does not allow you to completely block light. Vertical blinds have larger slats that slightly overlap when closed, which allows for more light control. Additionally, you can easily change the angle and direction of vertical slats, which allows you to filter how much light enters your home.

Temperature Control

In addition to controlling light, blinds can also help keep a comfortable temperature. By allowing you to close the slats completely, vertical blinds can block direct sunlight (and the heat associated with it) from heating up your home. In the winter, closing the blinds also provides insulation and traps heat, so that your HVAC unit doesn't have to work as hard. By effectively keeping your home cool in the summer and warm in the winter, you can save on energy bills!

Maintenance

Window blinds with vertical slats are typically easier to clean than horizontal blinds. Because the slats runu up and down, the accumulation of dust is minimal and can easily be cleaned by vacuuming or wiping down each individual slat. Horizontal blinds will accumulate more dust and often have smaller slats that would require more labor-intensive maintenance and cleaning.

Visual Appeal

Vertical blinds are a striking addition to any room. Their long slats create a spacious feeling and visually add height to a room. They also help you maintain clean lines and an organized look by neatly stacking to the side when open.--If you've decided vertical blinds are right for your home, contact Blinds Brothers. We can work with you to choose colors, materials, and styles that complement your home's aesthetic. Still leaning towards horizontal blinds? We can still help you! Contact us online to learn more about your window treatment options.