When it comes to commercial window treatments, both blinds and shades have many advantages. But what exactly are the biggest differences between the two? The right commercial shades or blinds can be key to creating the right environment in your work space, so this article will help you figure out which style is better suited for your needs. Read on to learn more about the benefits of commercial blinds and shades.

The Differences

Before we dig into the different types of shades and blinds, we should first establish the key differences between the two options.

The simplest explanation is that blinds are hard window coverings made with horizontal slats, while shades are window coverings made of one or more pieces of fabric. Functionally, they both achieve the same goal of covering your windows, but these two options differ greatly with different types of operation, styles, insulation and other features.

When it comes to light control, both options will fulfill your needs in different ways. Blind slats can be tilted for adjustable light control, while shades are made with a solid piece of fabric, so they generally only have two options: open or closed.

Insulation & Durability

There are some more differences to consider between blinds and shades. Here we’ll look at insulation and durability. Since blinds are made from harder materials like wood, PVC and aluminum, they hold up to wear and tear better than shades.

Blinds won’t do quite as much much to ward off outside temperatures, but some shades are specially designed to help insulate your windows. Solar shades, for example, can increase your energy efficiency in cold months and even give you a lower energy bill thanks to their insulation properties. So whether you’re looking for more durability, or more insulation, both blinds and shades will have their pros and cons.

Cleaning Your Window Treatments

Now let’s take a look at how both blinds and shades look and how easily they can be cleaned.

In terms of cleaning, blinds can be easily wiped down with a feather duster and a vacuum. If any staining occurs, a soft cloth with water or a mild soap detergent should do the trick. With shades, you can lift away dust with a brush, or gently spot clean with warm water and a mild soap detergent if necessary.

Choose Your Style

Both blinds and shades can give you a high end look. If you’re going for a more formal look, wood blinds or roman shades in a luxurious fabric might be a great option. If you want your windows to make a statement rather than blend into the background – go with a roman shade or roller shade in a colourful print. With hundreds of patterns available, you’re sure to find the right one for your space.

The Choice Is Yours

Now you should have a good grasp on the differences between commercial blinds and shades. Clearly they both offer their own unique benefits and ultimately it comes down to the particular needs of your space.

Be sure to explore our extensive collection of commercial blinds and shades to find the right option for you.