Blinds, shutters and awnings all have a few things in common; from protecting and beautifying a space to reducing energy costs. If you’re tasked with picking the right blinds, shutter or awnings for your home or business premises, we’re here to help.
Outdoor blinds Sydney is a thriving industry with many different types to pick from. The versatility of these items often leaves many home and restaurant owners confused about which one to pick.
We’ve taken the liberty of outlining the general factors you must consider before making your final purchase. The idea is to make your shopping experience as quick & easy as possible.
Quality Matters
These window coverings vary in types meaning they come with different price tags. Your budget will obviously play a major contributing factor in the type you pick. But we strongly advise that you prioritise quality over price.
Don’t pick the cheapest brand you can find. Cheaply-priced blinds, shutters and awnings are seldom made of high-quality materials. As a result, durability is questionable.
On the other hand, we’re not advocating buying only the most expensive product on the market. Your best bet is to consider features that affect durability and functionality such as materials used in their construction before making your decision.
Do these Window Coverings Match the Requirements?
As mentioned before, window furnishings vary in design—and this is for a reason. In most cases, these items are designed for specific locations and application. Do you want your blinds to be a statement piece in the room or a compliment an existing décor?
You don’t have pick the same type of covering for your entire home. Pick those that:
- Match the décor of the existing room to ensure seamless blending. If there are many wood pieces in the room you intend on covering, then pick wooden blinds.
- Have the same colour theme as the intended room. Playing with colour is allowed, but you want to pick window furnishings that leave the room looking neat and co-ordinated.
- The dimensions of the coverings must match the existing window shapes. There’s no point in buying vertical blinds for horizontally shaped windows.
Where do you want to place the blinds or awnings? If you’re going to place them on a sliding door that you open frequently, you want one that’s sturdy. Shutters are sturdier compared to blinds in this case.
Function Over Style
Since these window coverings are available in different colours and designs, it’s normal to be drawn to a specific beautiful window covering. But does the design affect functionality in any way? The last thing you need is a stylish blind that’s difficult to open or close. Rather prioritise function over aesthetics.
Does the material of the blind block out the morning light coming from your bedroom window while you sleep? Is it too thick that it darkens the room? You need to pick a product that creates a balance between these two extremes before you think of style and design. Awnings are effective at keeping sunlight out as well as reducing the heat in the house.
Your Surroundings Matter
Your surroundings matter when it comes to picking either blinds, shutters or awnings. Is your place of residence or business extremely windy? Does the area receive a lot of rain? These facts as well as the general temperature determine which type will work best.
If you live in a windy area you want blinds that don’t leave any gaps when closed so you’re sure wind is kept out.
What are your lighting needs? Pick one that’s adjustable depending on the amount of light you want to enter a certain space or room.
Ease of Operation
Whichever window furnishing you decide to pick, make sure that it’s easy to operate. Do you want an automated or manual blind or awning? Naturally motorised window furnishings are much easier to operate that their manual counterparts. You can open or close them at the simple press of a button.
Ease of Maintenance
The blinds or awnings you pick must be easy to maintain. And this factor is largely dependent on the fabric used in its construction. Canvas awnings appeal to many because they come in different colours and prints. The only drawback is that the material is rather difficult to clean and maintain.
On the other hand, aluminium awnings, though not the most attractive on the market are very easy to maintain and clean. Aside from being low-maintenance, they’re quite sturdy so durability is guaranteed.
In addition, aluminium awnings are also flexible and versatile. You can use them throughout the year regardless of the season. Either adjust them to keep the sun out during the hot months or let it in during the colder seasons.
Pick a Reputable Supplier
It’s important that you pick a reputable supplier of these blinds or shutters, preferably one who has experience in manufacturing & installing the units.
In most cases, these suppliers will be responsible for installing these units in your building. You want a company with experience in taking accurate measurements before installation to avoid costly mistakes.
Final Words
Remember that the blinds, awnings or shutters you pick must first and foremost be easy to use and maintain. You can always look for your preferred style in that category.
Are you ready to go shopping? Use the knowledge you now have, go out there and purchase the right window furnishings that will add value to your home.
