Design Tips & Blog

When looking for a new, fresh way of updating your home's design, consider the advantages roller shades offer for interior decoration. Low cost roller shades are available to suit those with limited remodeling budgets, and a vast array of types, styles, and colors can make your home's decor come alive; versatile and easy to install, roller shades are an excellent alternative to standard Venetian blinds or shades. For more extensive home remodeling projects, motorized roller shade systems are available; these are usually fairly expensive, but offer unique advantages not found in other window treatments. Standard non-motorized blinds are designed on the principle of tension and release. Spring roller shades use a spring to create tension and friction, holding the blind in proper position when the tension is applied, and releasing it to allow repositioning when that tension is released. Other types of roller shades use a continuous loop action, providing a smoother, more natural up-and-down motion for the shade. When selecting a roller shade, look for sturdy construction including metal roller tubes and hem rails. Aluminum is generally used for roller shades since it offers strong tensile strength and durability without adding a great deal of weight to the blind. Overall, the blind should be logically designed and attractive; test it to ensure that the hem rail is heavy enough to allow the blind to hang correctly when mounted. Another feature to look for is a one-step push-button release for the blind, which allows easy replacement of worn blinds without removing existing brackets and mounting hardware. Some shades feature custom covers for the sides of the shade mounting to provide a more finished look. If you expect your shade to see to heavy use, you may wish to consider a heavy-duty roller shade, designed to stand up to daily abuse. For convenience and ease of use, motorized shades are the obvious choice. Most installations require electrical wiring and a rocker wall switch which raises or lowers the shades to a number of preset positions. For added convenience, some roller shade systems are attached to a timer, allowing the shades to be automatically raised or lowered at specific times during the day. This adds an extra security measure to your home, since it gives the impression that someone is at home during these times. Remote control devices are also available for some motorized roller shade systems. Whether you select expensive motorized systems or readily-available low cost roller shades, these window treatments can offer privacy, light control, and comfort to your home. The choices of fabrics and materials are endless, matching any type of decor or home. Look for low cost blinds today, and you will find a window full of decorating possibilities.