This blog will compare blinds vs. curtains in detail, so you can easily choose what’s right for your room depending on the privacy level you need, insulation, ambiance, light control, and budget.
Blinds are generally less expensive.
It takes less time and material to manufacture the blinds. Plus, they can be installed rapidly. In just 10-15 minutes, a professional installer can attach brackets to the window frame, hang the blind and mount the necessary mechanism that controls the movement. And all this at a total cost between $40 – $90 per window. If you use plastic blinds, the cost will be even less. On the other hand, vinyl or wooden blinds will increase the budget.
Compared to blinds, curtains are costlier, and they range from $50 – $250 for a single window. This is because curtains require more time to manufacture and install, using more material than blinds. A professional will need more than an hour to mount the level brackets, glide the panels onto the rod, firmly attach the rod and bracket, and give the curtains a suitable style. Cotton curtains cost less than linen or silk ones.
Blinds offer more light control options.
With blinds, you can control the amount of light that enters your room. Blinds can move in two ways. Either you can lift the cord to shift vertical blinds from one side to the other, or you can twist the tilt wand to alter the angle at which the light enters. Blinds offer more freedom in terms of light control, but their slatted design allows some light to enter even if they are completely closed.
On the other hand, closed curtains block all the light.
Blinds last longer
If you take good care of blinds, they can easily last for around 15 years, looking neat and tidy. The materials used for blinds like vinyl, plastic, or aluminum are synthetic, making them stain and discoloration resistant. The rigidness of these materials also makes them less vulnerable to regular wearing.
The materials for curtains silk, velvet, cotton all can easily tear, discolor, or develop molds. They may need a replacement within ten years.
Curtains offer better insulation.
Both options are the same when it comes to insulation. They keep the heat inside and lower the utility bills during winters. But curtains vs. blinds are more effective in reducing heat loss due to the absence of slats. Blinds are far behind in this competition.
But in summers, the tables turn around. Blinds are more energy efficient in hotter months. They retain less heat in the room, allowing less heat to enter inside, lowering your air conditioner bills. Curtains allow less heat to escape and are less efficient in decreasing indoor heat gain.
Curtains allow more soundproofing.
Curtains and blinds both absorb the sound to block the outside noises. But as compared to blinds, curtains offer better sound absorption. Curtains made of heavy material or tightly woven fabric like velvet are better sound blockers. The absence of slats is again a plus.
What’s best for your room depends on the needs and setting. You can combine them both for extra benefits.