Window blinds are essential to any home, but did you know you can have blinds installed inside your window panes? These in-window blinds differ in many ways from their external cousins. Let's look at the pros and cons of this modern home feature.
You may be most familiar with Venetian and Roller blinds. These blind types are found in most homes and rest on the outer side of the glass. They are designed to lower, raise, and even tilt to control light and privacy within the home. Venetian and Roller blinds are usually controlled with a pull cord, though more modern types are designed to be pushed up and pulled down simply. In-window blinds differ in that they are sealed between the panes of glass. You cannot access the blinds themselves unless the window is pulled apart.
How are they controlled?
In-window blinds can be controlled in many different ways. Older versions may have a pull cord similar to external blinds, but that is less common as this product develops. Modern versions of the in-window blind use either a slider switch or a motor. Slider switches use magnets to move the slats up and down easily; the switch itself is installed next to each window. Blinds with motors are even more convenient, using gears, pulleys, and a drive belt to control the blinds. These can be opened and closed with a remote or even a smartphone app. Imagine heading out for the night and wondering if your blinds are closed, then having the ability to quickly pull up an app and shut every blind in your house.
The Pros
The number one reason people choose in-window blinds is convenience. Blinds with a traditional pull cord tend to tangle and operate inefficiently. How many times have you pulled a blind cord only for each side to raise unevenly? Then it's a matter of fixing that issue, trying to get the blinds right where you want them, and hoping they stay there. The ability to use a remote or app is also gaining popularity as smart homes become the new norm.
In-window blinds can also be a safer option for your home. The Journal of Pediatric studies reported that between 1990-2015, 300 children under the age of six were fatally injured by blind cords, while another 2000 sustained other injuries. This risk is completely eliminated for both children and pets with in-window blinds opened by magnetic sliders or motors.
Lack of maintenance is also an advantage. Because these blinds are sealed between two panes of glass, dust isn't much of an issue; damage is also unlikely. Some models can be disassembled for cleaning once or twice each year, while others don't require any maintenance or cleaning.
The Cons
If you're looking for a wide array of options, in-window blinds may not be for you. While stores carry hundreds of traditional blind choices, there are very few in-window options in comparison. Fewer companies offer this option. Because of this, you'll be limited in design, color, and finish choices.
In-window blinds are also less energy efficient. To create energy-efficient windows, companies use a clear gas like Argon between window panes. This isn't an option when blinds are installed within the window itself. Using triple-pane glass can improve energy efficiency and add insulation in some cases, but it will be costly.
These issues can certainly be overcome, but the solutions can be expensive. You may be able to find a company that can customize a color or design you prefer but expect the cost to rise. Triple-pane glass is certainly an option, but it may add to an already pricey improvement. If in-window blinds are a must-have for your home upgrades, anticipate the cost, and consider the many pros and cons of this renovation.
