Got questions about buying new window coverings? We’ve got answers. At Blindster, we know that many people don’t know where to begin when it comes to buying blinds and shades.

So whether you’re confused about how a specific type of window treatment works, the best way to measure your windows before placing an order, or the pros and cons of specific types of blinds, you’re in the right place.

Check out our frequently asked questions below, and if you still have questions or concerns, don’t hesitate to get in touch with our friendly and knowledgeable sales representatives.

How do you get accurate window measurements before ordering blinds or shades?

Before you place an order with Blindster, it’s important that you have the most accurate measurements possible of the window or area you wish to cover.

For inside mounts, measure the height on the far left, middle, and far right of the window and note the largest measurement, as you’ll use it when placing your order. Then, measure the width at the top of the window frame where the headrail will be installed.

For outside mounts, measure the full width of the area you want to cover with the shade and, if space permits, add an extra 1” to 1 ½” to each side to eliminate light leakage. Measure the full height of the area you wish to cover with the shade and add 1 ½” to 2” to encompass the flat mounting surface area. Add additional inches to account for things like molding or framework that you wish to cover with the window covering.

Check out our complete measuring instructions page for more detailed explanations.

What are blackout shades?

As the name implies, blackout shades are designed to literally “blackout” a room by blocking virtually all natural and artificial light from entering through the windows. When installed correctly, blackout shades can reduce up to 99% of light from entering a room.

That makes these shades perfect for home theaters, home offices, man caves, game rooms, bedrooms, and any room where you need the utmost privacy and control over glare and lighting. Blackout shades are also highly effective at insulating rooms and making them more energy efficient during the summer, as they reduce the effect of the sun’s hot rays when it comes to increasing ambient temperatures inside your home.

How do you buy blinds for windows?

Buying window blinds is a relatively simple process that requires making a few important decisions, such as:

Do you prefer blinds or shades?

Blinds and shades are both effective window coverings with their own pros and cons. Blinds are easily adjusted and can be opened to let in light without being raised. In addition, blinds are often preferable with certain types of décor and home stylings. Shades may be slightly less versatile and must be raised to let in light (or lowered for top-down/bottom-up varieties), but they offer a much greater variety of color and pattern to match furniture and other home design elements.

Do you want to install your blinds inside or outside of your window frame?

Inside installations are the most common method for hanging blinds. These installations involve mounting the headrail flush with the top of the window frame and the entire blind being contained within the window casing.

Outside installations involve mounting the headrail completely outside of the window frame on the wall, molding, or even the ceiling. This method is generally used when the window frame is too shallow for an inside mount or you wish to cover unattractive woodwork or molding around your window.

What type of blinds do you like?

Blindster offers a variety of blinds to fit every home, room, and window:

Faux wood blinds

Faux wood blinds provide the same elegant beauty of wood blinds, but cost less and are often easier to maintain. They’re made from a synthetic material that’s designed to look like real world, but far less prone to problems like cracking, warping, or splitting. In addition, they also hold up better in environments with high moisture or high humidity, such as homes near water or the ocean.

Wood blinds

If you’ll settle for nothing less than the genuine article, wood blinds are the way to go. No matter what type of décor or style you prefer in your home, wood blinds are the perfect complement. The natural construction, intricate wood grain patterns, and beautiful staining can turn any window in your home into a true showpiece.

Aluminum blinds

Low-profile and sleek, aluminum blinds are among the most practical window coverings we offer. Durable, stain-resistant, and built to hold up after years of use, aluminum blinds are both easy to operate and excellent at blocking out light. Aluminum blinds are exceptionally common in homes due to their versatility and durability, and they’re easily cleaned and maintained.

Vertical blinds

Perfect for sliding doors and large windows, vertical blinds have a unique and highly distinctive appearance that contribute to the ambience and mood in your home. Their large vinyl vanes are quick and easy to clean, and they’re easily operated using a simple wand. A quick twist of the wrist opens or closes the blinds, while pushing or pulling causes them to effortlessly glide along a heavy-duty track system designed to last for years and years.

What are the cheapest blinds to buy?

At Blindster, we offer a wide variety of window coverings that vary significantly in style, design, color, material, and price. If you’re looking to keep costs low, budget blinds may be your best bet.

Our 2” Deluxe Faux Wood Blinds are our best-selling model of faux wood window coverings and provide an elegant look at an affordable price. Our aluminum blinds are another great option for budget-minded homeowners, with our 1" Cordless Aluminum Blinds providing excellent value for your family and our Cordless Aluminum Blinds providing safe, cord-free operation.

What color roller shades work best at reducing sunlight?

Roller shades are among the most effective window treatments when it comes to eliminating outside light from entering your home. If you’re looking to maximize your roller shades’ ability to block out light while matching your interior décor, all roller shade blackout fabrics will block any light trying to pass through the shade itself.  If you want some light to filter through the shade, but are looking to minimize how much, then look for darker colors in our light filtering roller shades such as dark green, grey, burgundy, brown, and of course black. Note that a black light filtering shade is not a blackout shade.