For large windows, vertical blinds are a great choice for covering wide spans with excellent light and privacy control. Roller shades offer a sleek, modern look with functional light control, while Roman shades add a touch of elegance. Cellular shades are perfect for energy efficiency, providing insulation to maintain indoor temperatures. Plantation shutters are a durable, timeless option that combines charm and practicality. Ultimately, the best choice balances functionality, design, and your personal style.
Continue reading to learn more about each type of window treatment and its benefits.
Types of Blinds or Shades for Very Large Windows
Vertical Blinds: Perfect for Large Expanses
Vertical blinds are ideal for very large windows or sliding glass doors. Their vertical design covers wide spans efficiently, offering excellent light control and privacy. Available in materials such as fabric, vinyl, or wood, vertical blinds can complement both modern and traditional décor. They are easy to operate and adjust, making them a flexible choice for large windows.
Roller Shades: Sleek, Modern, and Efficient
Roller shades offer a minimalist, sleek look that is perfect for large windows, especially in modern or contemporary spaces. Their clean design fits well with various interior styles, and they are available in a wide range of fabrics, colors, and textures. Roller shades provide excellent light control and are available in options such as blackout or light-filtering fabrics, making them both functional and stylish.
Roman Shades: Luxurious and Elegant
Roman shades create a sophisticated, luxurious atmosphere in large rooms. Their fabric folds add a soft, elegant touch, and they are available in a variety of materials like linen, velvet, and more. Roman shades can be customized with different pleat styles and offer great light control, particularly with blackout options.
Related reading: How to Clean Roman Shades
Cellular Shades: Energy Efficiency Meets Style
Cellular shades, also known as honeycomb shades, are perfect for large windows due to their energy-efficient design. The unique cellular structure traps air, offering insulation that helps regulate indoor temperatures. Available in various styles, including single, double, or triple-cell designs, cellular shades provide varying levels of insulation. They also come in a range of light-filtering options, making them versatile for both light diffusion and privacy.
Plantation Shutters: Timeless Durability
Plantation shutters are a classic, durable window treatment that adds charm and sophistication to any large window. Made from materials like wood or faux wood, these shutters offer excellent light control and privacy. Plantation shutters are ideal for those seeking a more permanent, durable solution and are easy to maintain. They also help regulate indoor temperatures by providing insulation against the elements.
Effects and Functions
Light Control: Precision vs. Soft Diffusion
When choosing window treatments, light control is essential. Vertical blinds and roller shades offer precise control over how much light enters the room, allowing for specific adjustments to block or allow light. In contrast, Roman shades and cellular shades tend to diffuse light more softly, creating an ambient glow that gently brightens the room. The choice depends on whether you prefer precise control or a softer light effect.
Privacy: Keeping Your Space Secure
Privacy is a key factor for large windows. Vertical blinds and plantation shutters allow for adjustable slats that give you control over visibility, ensuring privacy without sacrificing light. Roller shades and Roman shades offer privacy through the opacity of their fabric, with blackout options ensuring complete seclusion when needed.
Energy Efficiency: Keeping Costs Down
Energy-efficient window treatments, such as cellular shades, offer substantial insulation benefits. The honeycomb design traps air, helping to keep heat in during winter and out during summer, thereby reducing energy bills. Roller shades and Roman shades with insulating fabrics also contribute to energy savings. If energy efficiency is a priority, cellular shades or layered treatments that combine insulation and light control are excellent choices.
Practicality and Maintenance: Blinds vs. Shades
Cleaning, Upkeep, and Ease of Operation: Blinds vs. ShadesBlinds tend to require more maintenance due to their slats or individual parts. Vertical blinds can accumulate dust and debris, and their cords or chains need periodic cleaning. Roller shades and Roman shades, being fabric-based, are often easier to clean, with many options that are machine washable or can be spot-cleaned. Cellular shades are low-maintenance as they don’t collect much dust and can be cleaned with a vacuum brush attachment.
For very large windows, the operation of your window treatments is essential. Manual options, like traditional vertical blinds or roller shades, may be challenging to adjust on large or high windows. Motorized blinds and shades offer greater ease of use, allowing you to control them remotely or through an app, especially useful for hard-to-reach areas.
Cost Considerations
Affordable vs. Premium Solutions
For those on a budget, vertical blinds and roller shades are often the most affordable options. Vinyl or fabric versions are less expensive than wood or custom treatments and offer durability and style. Cellular shades are also reasonably priced, especially in standard sizes, though custom options can increase costs.
If you\’re looking for a more luxurious look, plantation shutters or custom Roman shades provide a high-end feel. These premium options often feature top-quality materials like real wood or high-end fabrics. While the initial investment is higher, these treatments offer long-term durability and a refined aesthetic.
Finding the Best Value
When considering cost, finding the best value means balancing quality with functionality. Cellular shades provide great energy efficiency and versatility, making them an excellent value. Roller shades are another cost-effective option, offering style and performance at a lower price. For those with a larger budget, custom solutions like Roman shades or plantation shutters provide long-term value with their durability, timeless appeal, and ease of maintenance.
Custom Blinds or Shades: Is It Worth It for Large Windows?
Why Custom Options Might Be Right for You
Custom blinds or shades are often the best choice for large windows that require a tailored fit. Off-the-shelf products may not provide the precise measurements or style you desire. Custom treatments allow you to select the exact fabric, material, and design to suit your space, ensuring a perfect fit that maximizes light control, privacy, and energy efficiency.
What to Expect from Custom Window Treatments
When opting for custom window treatments, expect to collaborate with a professional to select materials, colors, and styles that complement your décor. Custom treatments are usually made to order, which can take several weeks. Although custom options tend to be pricier, they offer personalized solutions that enhance the aesthetic and functionality of your space.
Installation and Maintenance Tips
Professional Installation
SmartWings Home collaborates with Nationwide Blind Installation, Inc. (NBI) to provide professional measurement and installation services for blinds and shades across the United States. Customers can easily find local installation professionals by entering their zip code. The installation fees are directly paid to the installer by the customer.
Regular Cleaning and Maintenance
SmartWings Home provides a detailed cleaning guide, advising customers to regularly clean their blinds and shades to maintain optimal condition. Specific cleaning methods can be found on their official website\’s cleaning guide.
Inspections and Repairs
It is recommended to periodically check your window treatments for any signs of wear or malfunction to ensure they are operating properly. If any issues are detected, you can contact SmartWings Home\’s customer service for professional repair advice and assistance.
