The right window covering depends on the room, how you use it and the benefits that matter most to you. Consider:
Relative cost
Insulation
Light filtration
Privacy
Appearance
Best use for the room
For example, cellular shades excel at insulation, sheer shadings soften natural light, and shutters provide excellent privacy and durability. Roman shades, woven woods and draperies offer a softer, more decorative appearance, while horizontal and vertical blinds provide practical, adjustable light control.
The following chart compares each window-covering style based on these important criteria.
| Window-Covering Category | Relative Cost | Insulation | Light Filtration | Privacy | Best Uses |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Vinyl Horizontal Blinds | $ | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ | Rental properties, utility rooms and budget-conscious installations |
| Aluminum Blinds | $ | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ | Offices, workshops and contemporary rooms requiring economical light control |
| Roll Screens | $$ | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ | Modern rooms where simplicity, view preservation and easy operation are priorities |
| Cellular Blinds | $$ | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ | Bedrooms, living areas and drafty windows where insulation and privacy are important |
| Vertical Blinds | $$ | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ | Sliding doors, wide windows and frequently used patio entrances |
| Wood Horizontal Blinds | $$$ | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ | Living rooms, offices and traditional interiors where natural warmth is desired |
| Woven Wood Shades | $$$ | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ | Casual, rustic or natural interiors where texture and softly filtered light are desired |
| Roman Shades | $$$$ | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ | Bedrooms, dining rooms and living spaces requiring a softer fabric appearance |
| Sheer Shadings | $$$$ | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ | Living rooms and view-oriented spaces where diffused daylight is a priority |
| Interior Shutters | $$$$ | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ | Long-term installations where durability, privacy and architectural character are priorities |
| Custom Draperies | $$$$$ | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ | Bedrooms, formal rooms and statement windows requiring maximum flexibility and coverage |