Choosing the right hangings for your windows is a combination of preference and functionality.
Curtains vs roller blinds are both timeless options that have adorned windows across Australia for generations. Yet when furnishing a new home or considering an upgrade, it can be a little difficult to decide between the two. After all, both have a distinctive look and style, and their operability is quite different when comparing the two.
How can you decide between roller blinds vs curtains?
As you’re making your choice, keep in mind that both options have evolved over the years. Now you can have custom, made-to-measure roller blinds vs curtains for any window type, size, or shape in your home. All you need is a little creativity and a budget that accommodates the project. To help you decide between them, we’re taking a closer look at both options for you.
The benefits of roller blinds
Just like their name implies, they simply roll up when retracted, making them a space saving option for window treatments. A single sheet of material (fabric or vinyl being the most popular) is installed in a casing that allows the blind to be easily opened and closed.
Some options are operated by a cord that allows you to roll them up and down as needed. Others have a built-in mechanism that will retract the blind when pulled on at certain angles. Whichever you opt for, they are straightforward to use.
They work from the top down (or bottom up depending on if you’re opening or closing them). When completely closed, they cover the window in its entirety, giving you complete privacy. Depending on the material you choose, some options can be light filtering, while others can be completely opaque and block out the sun.
They can also be customised to fit nearly any shape or type of window, making them a really versatile choice. The wide range of fabrics and materials also allow homeowners and business owners to choose the variety that suits their personal tastes or existing décor.
When it comes to lifespan, you’re also looking at a solid investment in your home. Those variations that are custom made to measure can last upward of 10 years, especially if you operate them with care.
Learn more about the Pros and Cons of Roller Blinds
A closer look at curtains
Also called drapes, they come in a variety of styles, with limitless designs depending on the fabrics and materials you choose. Unlike blinds which open up and down, curtains are typically operated side to side, although some are installed as accent pieces and not operated at all.
They are installed using a variety of different hanging options, which will dictate the type of rods you need. Rod pockets are the most common type, where the rod slips through a casing of fabric and allows the curtain to slide back and forth in operation. Other styles include rings or grommets, tabs, ties, and pleats, just to name a few. While some of these will show off the rod, others will hide the material, making rod selection a serious part of the curtain selection process as well.
They can technically last for decades, but signs of wear can show sooner. Depending on the fabric you choose, you might have to be concerned about fading from the sun, especially on the reverse side of the curtain. More delicate options, such as sheers, might not last as long since the material is lightweight and not as durable. It also depends on how harshly you operate them. Those that hang decoratively with little to no operation are likely to last much longer than those that are opened and closed on a daily basis.
Roller blinds vs curtains: A closer look
So how can you choose between the two options at hand? One way to look at it is what kind of operability you’re looking for. Both roller blinds vs curtains are an all or nothing option. They’re either opened or closed (as opposed to slatted blinds or plantation shutters that can be partially opened to let in light while retaining privacy). Many Brisbane homeowners choose roller blinds because they are simple to use and provide easy operability when shifting from allowing light in to focusing on privacy.
If design is what you crave and you like to change your aesthetic more often, curtains might be the way to go. They’re easier to swap out than blinds since they’re simply installed on a hanging rod above the window. They are more permanent since they are directly installed with screws into the window casing, and the shades are not swappable.
Maintenance wise, both options are easy to take care of. They may collect dust much less than curtains by the nature of their roll-up design. Curtains, however, can be easily thrown in the dryer to air out and remove dust as needed. All you need is time and a little patience to take them down and put them back up.
Another option is to not choose between them at all. You can actually install both options together for a unique and versatile window treatment. Many homeowners choose a more neutral coloured roller blind that allows them to control the light and privacy in their space. Then, they can pair their blind with a more designer-friendly curtain fabric that adds more visual interest to the space. It’s a win-win situation with a unique look.
Is the roller blinds vs curtains dillemma worth it?
When it comes to creating creative spaces with eye-catching window treatments, both are among the most popular options. They tend to be more cost effective than other options, even when going the custom route. Roller blinds tend to be more compact and take up less space than plantation shutters or vertical indoor blinds while still providing privacy in droves.
Curtains are also one of the most timeless options when it comes to window treatments. You’ll be able to find the right material, colour, and size for any option, even if you need to go the made-to-measure route. Keep in mind that the price will largely be dictated by how expensive the fabric itself is and how much of it you need. That said, there are options available for every kind of budget out there.
Create custom window treatments with the team at FKR Group
Whichever option you choose, you’re likely not going to go wrong with your decision. The key is to choose quality fabrics and materials from a professional window treatment provider so that whatever you choose will last for years to come and meet your exact design needs.
FKR Group has been helping homeowners design the window treatments of their dreams for over 30 years. There’s no window we can’t furnish, and we take pride in providing high-quality, custom window treatments that are made to last. All of our products come with warranties on the materials themselves as well as the installation, and everything we provide is custom made.
If you’re in the market for new window treatments but aren’t sure whether to opt for roller blinds vs curtains, you’re not alone. But you’re also exploring two great options that can help bring your home’s interior décor to life. Call our team on 0412 872 822 for a no-obligation quote and consultation to get started and narrow down your choices today.
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