You’ve done it. With the help of the folks at Best Blinds & Awnings, you’ve found the exact combination of colors and types of custom blinds you need to put the finishing touch on your beautiful dream house. You’re finally done, right? Nope. It turns out that choosing the perfect blinds for your home is only half the battle where window treatments are concerned. The other half is hardware.
The proper hardware makes a world of difference in how your window treatments look, function, and last over time. Choosing blinds without considering the hardware you’ll need is like buying a shiny new computer without looking into what software it’s compatible with. Sure, it’s beautiful, but will it work smoothly and do what you need it to do? Here’s what you need to know when selecting hardware for your blinds.
Mounting Matters: Inside or Outside?
One of the first decisions you’ll need to make is whether to go with an inside or outside mount. Inside-mounted blinds fit snugly within the window frame for a sleek, built-in look, but they require enough depth to accommodate the hardware. Outside-mounted blinds, on the other hand, attach to the wall or the molding around the window, providing more light control and making the window appear more prominent. If your windows are shallow or you want maximum coverage, an outside mount might be the way to go.
The Headrail: The Backbone of Your Blinds
The headrail is the quiet lynchpin enabling your blinds to function — it holds everything together at the top and houses the lift mechanism. If you want your blinds to operate smoothly, be sure to choose a sturdy headrail made from quality materials. A well-made headrail means fewer headaches when it comes to opening and closing your blinds.
Slats, Vanes, and the Bottom Rail: Support That Lasts
Slats (for horizontal blinds) or vanes (for vertical blinds) are what you see and adjust to control light and privacy. The weight of these components matters when selecting hardware, as heavier materials like wood may require reinforced mounting brackets and a sturdier headrail. The bottom rail is equally essential; it stabilizes the blinds so they hang correctly and don’t warp over time.
Lift Mechanisms: Corded, Cordless, or Motorized?
How do you want to operate your blinds? Traditional corded options are becoming less common due to safety concerns, especially in homes with kids and pets. Cordless blinds are a safer, more streamlined choice and are easy to operate with a gentle push or pull. Motorized blinds take convenience a step further, integrating with smart home systems and allowing you to raise and lower shades using a button on the wall, an app on your smartphone, or even voice commands.
Child and Pet Safety: A Non-Negotiable Consideration
If you have small children or pets running around, safety concerns should be at the top of your priority list. Corded blinds can pose a strangulation risk, so opting for cordless or motorized options is the safest bet. Look for hardware that meets the latest safety standards to give you peace of mind.
Functionality: More Than Just Window Dressing
Beyond aesthetics, think about how you’ll use your blinds. Do you want to darken a bedroom for better sleep? Blackout roller shades with an outside mount can block nearly all incoming light. Need to soften glare in your living room? Sheer or light-filtering shades with an inside mount can diffuse sunlight beautifully. Make sure your chosen hardware supports your specific light control needs.
Style and Finish: Coordinating with Your Decor
Just like you wouldn’t pair a vintage chandelier with an ultra-modern dining table (well, maybe you would, but it’s a bold choice!), your blinds and hardware should complement your home’s aesthetic. Consider finishes that match your existing fixtures — whether that’s brushed nickel, matte black, or classic white — to create a cohesive look.
Material Matters: Durability and Performance
Different blind materials require different levels of support. Lightweight aluminum or faux wood blinds are easy to mount, while real wood blinds can be heavier and may need reinforced brackets. If you live in a humid area (hello, steamy kitchens and bathrooms!), consider moisture-resistant materials that won’t warp over time.
Final Thoughts: The Right Hardware Makes All the Difference
Blinds and shades are not merely a way to cover your windows; they’re a functional design element that enhances your home. Choosing the right hardware ensures that they look great, operate smoothly, and last for years. Not sure where to start? The team at Best Blinds & Awnings is here to help! Our expert designers and installers can guide you through the entire process, from selecting the perfect blinds to using the best hardware for a flawless fit. Visit our website, give us a call, or stop by one of our locations in Coeur d’Alene, Spokane, or the Lewis Clark Valley to schedule a consultation today!