Curtain or Blinds? Let's Roll the Dice

Choosing between curtain and blinds is not an easy decision and will depend on the space you want to add the window treatment and the purpose you are looking to achieve. To help you with your decision, we have prepared this guide with the characteristics of each type of window covering.

Aesthetics

• Blinds - Made from a range of materials (plastic, wood, veneer and fabric), blinds provide a clean, simple look. Wooden Venetian blinds can be used to create a warm, natural atmosphere while Roman blinds can be the perfect compromise between curtain and blinds allowing you to match the fabric with your other furnishing while being able the enjoy the functionality that blinds offer. For a minimalist, tidy look, Roller blinds are a great choice, and they are also very cost effective.
• Curtains - They come in a range of heading styles, fabrics and lining options, which makes possible to achieve a variety of styles with them. Heading styles determine how a curtain falls, which can cause a great impact in the room. The fabric choice can determine the aesthetic and functionality of your curtains while tracks and rods can be chosen to complement the curtain style, whether it is contemporary or traditional.

Insulation Properties

• Blinds - To keep your home warm or cold, honeycomb blinds or lined roman blinds are great options. Honeycomb blinds are a great energy saver as they have the best insulation properties of all blinds. Lined roman blinds also offer great insulation as they cover the whole window space living little room for heat or cold air to escape. Venetian and vertical blinds are not as energy efficient as the small gaps between each slat allow air to escape, reducing insulation capabilities.
• Curtains - Made of thermal lining a curtain can be effective at retaining cold and heat, increasing the energy efficiency of your home. Although heavier fabrics can offer insulating properties, they can be overbearing in a small space. Plus, when closed, they severely reduce the amount of natural light in the room. This is something you should consider if you are a person who likes to enjoy natural light on warm days. 

Function

• Blinds – Venetian blinds can be used to reduce glare and boost daylight penetration, allowing you to achieve great levels of privacy and natural light. Venetian blinds are also a great option for areas with high moisture exposure, such as kitchen and bathroom, due to their resistant properties to reduce mold accumulation. Roman blinds are also an effective option for blocking light.
• Curtains – Curtains come with a variety of closing mechanisms and are easy to pull. However, curtains cover part of the window when opened, an important factor to consider when you have smaller windows. Sheer curtains can provide protection from harsh sunlight and add privacy and allow natural light to filter through at the same time.

Maintenance

• Blinds – Dust accumulation can be a problem with slatted blinds, so it requires regular wiping down. Regular vacuum can help avoid dust from building up. 
• Curtains – The best way to maintain curtains is with spot cleaning. Use a light vacuum to help remove dust build up.

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