Buying Blinds
Getting the most out of your decorating budget
Though there are many retailers who deal in blinds, it can be difficult to determine which ones actually provide good products and prices and which ones are a waste of time. Considering the fact that the price range of window coverings is wide (for a small roller blind you might pay $20, and for a large vertical blind or shutter you could be paying thousands) it can be difficult to know if you are getting good quality at a reasonable price.
A general rule of thumb when shopping for window coverings is to chart a price range for the size of blind you are looking for. Size is the primary factor in price, and a larger size can make a blind of even the cheapest material an expensive purchase. Common sizes are pre-fabricated for purchase, but unusually shaped windows will end up costing more because they will have to be custom made.
Material will be the second most important factor for the price of your blinds. For example, a roller blind made out of bamboo will cost significantly less than faux-suede blinds. The type of material used counts for more in the price than weight. The thickest of room-darkening shades can be cheaper than a fine sheer vertical.
Aside from the size considerations, you can compare shopping for window coverings to shopping for clothing: the most expensive will be made from high-quality materials and be designed by well-known brand names.
Price is not the only concern when shopping for blinds. Window coverings are meant to be long-term purchases, so you need to make sure you are purchasing durable, long-lasting and reliable products. Concerns over quality can be addressed by purchasing a brand-name blind that comes with a well-known and positive reputation. Which brand you select will depend on the type of window covering you are looking for, and the function you are expecting it to perform. Each of the most popular brands has focused their design and manufacture on a particular audience or material.
The Internet has revolutionized the process of shopping for blinds and other window coverings; the majority of purchases are now made online instead of retail outlets. Most consumers will spend a considerable amount of time researching types, styles and brands before ever looking to purchase. All of the major window fashion designers and manufacturers have a strong online presence, which means that you don't have to be close to any major outlets to purchase popular blinds. There are also several discount blind retailers and used blind sales online, which makes for more choices available to consumers shopping on a budget. After all, not everyone wants a brand-name blind.
