Horizontal Blinds vs. Vertical Blinds- Which Is The Better Fits?

One of the first options you’ll consider for window blinds is horizontal blinds vs. vertical blinds. Which is the better fit for your home depends on a few factors. Understanding what these are will help you quickly select the best option.

Window Size

The first, and maybe most important factor, is the size of your windows. Vertical blinds are best for large windows and horizontal blinds for smaller windows. Why? First, vertical blinds can cover a wide area on a single track. This gives large windows a clean and consistent look. More importantly, when fully open, vertical blinds still take up space on one end. Thus, it simply doesn’t work well for narrow windows. Using a horizontal blind on a small window allows you to expose the full width of the glass when the blinds are rolled up. It maximizes the already narrow window surface. So, remember, it’s often best to go horizontal for small windows and vertical for large ones.

Sunlight & Privacy

The next factor to consider is your preference for sunlight versus privacy. Vertical blinds are much better at blocking sunlight because the slats can lay perfectly flat and overlap one another slightly. They can also be mounted to fully cover the window surface (even going beyond the window area a little bit on each side). Horizontal blinds are better at allowing in sunlight while still maintaining privacy. When positioned at the right angle, it blocks views from street level while still allowing light in from higher angles.

Cleaning & Repair

Cleaning and maintaining horizontal blinds vs. vertical blinds is slightly different as well. Since vertical blind slats are larger, they’re easier to clean. Vertical blinds also have individual mounts for each slat, making it simple to replace them if damaged or broken. However, on the downside, track mechanisms can degrade over time with heavy usage. Horizontal blinds are slightly more challenging for cleaning given the large number of slats and placement closer together. Cords can break with repeated use as well, but cordless designs are now available with less wear and tear points.

Final Thoughts on Horizontal Blinds vs. Vertical Blinds

Although there are some key differences when comparing horizontal blinds vs. vertical blinds, both options have many things in common. Both come in a wide variety of colors, materials, and patterns. Thus, they can be used to create a certain look and feel in any room. Adjustable angles on the slats allow you to control how much sunlight enters your home and in which direction. When purchasing blinds, you should carefully measure your windows and have them cut to precise dimensions. The measuring and mounting location can differ depending on the type of blinds and your desired look. Be sure to consult with an expert before ordering and cutting your blinds, to avoid costly mistakes. Stop by our Burlington, MA showroom to view samples and chat with one of our window treatment experts.