Window blinds and shades are some of the most practical window treatments you can buy. While most generally lack the warmth and excitement of fabric draperies and valances, they can make excellent choices when you have budgetary constraints, need them only for a short time, when function is more of a priority than color and softness, or when you prefer their simplicity over fabric treatments. Most commonly they are merely the first step in layering your windows with multiple treatments-putting the blinds or shades first, then adding valances and optional stationary side draperies later.

This article is the first in a series which will help explain the cost differences of the various custom products. Other articles will explain the costs of custom draperies, trim options, fabrics, and more.

Blinds
Never assume that all miniblinds are the same. While mini blinds are the least expensive type of blind, there are many things which affect their price. Closure measures how tightly the blinds close. The better the closure, the better they insulate and block out light. Heavy gauge blinds are more durable and resistant to damage. Quality components affect how the blind tilts and raises, and how long it operates smoothly and effortlessly. Beware of cheap blinds usually associated with no or short warranties. Styling is important, especially when you have no intention of adding any valance later. Some have sleek and contoured headrails, while some come with no valance at all. Check out the newest blinds with no visible holes in the slats. They are stylish, insulate better, and block out more light.

The least expensive vertical blinds are made of PVC. Free-hanging fabric verticals are more expensive, and those where the fabric is inserted into PVC are the most expensive. Some fabrics will cause the vertical to be more expensive than draperies. Verticals, however, are increasingly becoming less popular. Most people who want the beauty of fabric either opt for fabric draperies or do neutral colored verticals, then add wonderful fabrics around them for pizzazz.

Shades
Roller shades are usually the least expensive type of shade, but be wary of pathetically poor rollers, which sometimes last just a few weeks. Pleated shades with a single layer of fabric were once popular when originally introduced about 10 years ago. They cost more than roller shades, and they should be avoided because they are inferior to pleated shades with honeycomb cells. The cellular shades often cost just a little more than their single layer counterparts, and are definitely worth the slight premium.

The most popular cellular shades have so many options that it is hard even for professionals to keep abreast. They come in different size pleats (3/8", 1/2", 3/4", 2" ) and with different numbers of pleats (1, 2, or 3). Generally, the larger and more numerous the pleats, the more expensive the shade. Those with blackout features cost even more. Many of the cheaper varieties stretch and lose their pleat shape easily. Some of the newest cellular shades have been designed to keep their shape indefinitely with their "D cell" design. There are surcharges for shades which are arched, angle-topped, and come up from the bottom. There are some exquisite shades actually made of bamboo reeds harvested from Asia. These shades are very distinctive, but expensive.

Multi-purpose Shades
Some of the most beautiful shades are called Vignettes and Cascades, which are less expensive alternatives to custom fabric Roman shades. Silhouettes are made of sheer fabric-they work like a shade and a blind all in one. These are the most versatile and unique shades available.

Conclusion
It is critical to assess your individual needs on a room-by-room basis. This should include a consideration of whether you want to regulate light, blackout light, insulate, your budget, and aesthetics.