What Are The Dos and Don’ts of Window Blinds?

If you’re shopping for window blinds, it helps to get clear on what you need before you start comparing styles and prices. Things like room function, moisture, light direction, and daily use can make one type of blind a perfect fit—and another a regret.

At SmartLooks Window & Wall Decor, since 1972, we’ve made it our family business to help homeowners across the Dallas Metroplex select the perfect products for your design project—with quality and lasting value in mind. 

Blinds and shades work differently, which affects how light enters your room. Horizontal blinds have long slats that you tilt open or closed. Shades, on the other hand, use continuous fabric or material that can block or filter light. 

Hunter Douglas offers soft horizontal blinds work with a tilt bar to softly filter light. They are made from textured, luxurious fabrics similar to a shade.

Different rooms have different styles and different needs. Living rooms and bedrooms especially benefit from horizontal blinds that balance privacy with natural light. They are good spots for genuine hardwood blinds, which add character, classic looks, and rich sophistication. If humidity and strong sunlight are concerns, opt for more affordable faux wood blinds that resist moisture and UV rays.

Aluminium mini-blinds work in offices but also have a more casual appeal that suits bathrooms, kitchens, and any other room—they work well in family rooms, too. And now,

Horizontal blinds can be mounted inside or outside your window frame. Inside mounts sit within the window frame for a clean, built-in lool they're ideal for standard-depth windows and require careful measurements since there's no room for error. Outside mounts attach to the wall or trim above and beyond the frame, which covers the entire window opening and blocks more light around the edges. This option works for shallow frames, uneven windows, or situations where you want the blinds to appear larger. 

This don’t was just mentioned, but is worth repeating: Over time, humidity and UV rays damage genuine wood blinds. Moisture warps slats, causes cracking, and ruins finishes within months. Faux wood or aluminum alternatives stand up to steam and temperature swings. These materials maintain their appearance in basements, garages, and near showers and above sinks.

Families with children or pets shouldn’t risk traditional cords, which create serious hazards. Modern cordless lifts, motorized systems, and wand controls eliminate dangling cords. These updated designs protect your family and add convenience without compromising function or appearance.

Don’t: Buy Inferior Quality Window Blinds

Inexpensive materials, fabrics, and operating systems don’t have the same quality, appearance, or operation as custom window treatments; they can fade, break, or malfunction fast. Quality materials will last for decades with minimal upkeep. We offer window coverings that last through years of lasting beauty and integrity.

The same theory generally applies to measuring and installation. DIY work frequently results in gaps, uneven fits, or operational headaches. Professional measuring guarantees flawless coverage that maximizes energy efficiency and a perfect fit. Remember, even quarter-inch errors create visible problems.

Do: Work With Smartlooks Window & Wall Decor

Smartlooks Window & Wall Decor brings expertise straight to your home or here at our showroom, with highly personalized consultations. We'll walk you through materials, styles, and installation details so you get results that last.

We can’t wait to meet you. Contact us for a consultation in Richardson and across the Dallas Metroplex, including Dallas, Plano, Allen, McKinney, Frisco, Fairview, Wylie, Sachse, Murphy, Parker, Garland, Rowlett, Rockwall, Heath, Sashe, Addison, Carrollton, Farmers Branch, Celina, and surrounding areas.