In today's market, there are countless options for purchasing horizontal mini-blinds and vertical blinds. There are nationally known brands that are practically household names. However, few of these blinds are specifically made for the toughness and durability needed in rental unit situations, schools, colleges, office buildings, commercial use, etc. Unfortunately, and as we all know, people can sometimes be very abusive in terms of damaging your property.

 

Because the majority of blinds available are constructed in a lighter weight version intended mostly for residential usage, it should come as no surprise that you cannot expect residential type blinds to last as long as their heavier counterpart.

 

Therefore, when purchasing horizontal blinds be sure to look for the following points:

 

First and foremost with blinds are the slats. They tend to represent the first point of damage on a blind. Simply said, try to buy the thickest slat you can find. Either select a .007 or .009 nominal thickness gauge slat. These are certainly superior to .006 gauge. Buyer Beware! Don't be fooled into believing that .006 gauge is as strong as .008 gauge. It is as different as 6 pounds is to 7.5 or 9.5 pounds. The thicker the slat, the less prone it is to damage. Second, and just as importantly, is the mechanical operation of the blinds. Those made with all metal mechanical parts help provide long-term durability. Finally, only buy blinds with a Lifetime Warranty on all mechanical parts and workmanship.

 

Make sure your products are made here in America rather than made cheaply in other countries. Supporting local business also increases our nation's economic stability which is imperative.

 

Regarding vertical blinds, you should consider the following points:

 

Be sure to purchase heavy duty steel headrails. These will provide long-lasting tough durability. They also are superior in strength to the lighter weight aluminum headrails frequently sold today. Second, make sure you purchase verticals with self-aligning carriers in order to avert tenants from needlessly stripping the gears. Finally, buy verticals with nice thick vanes or slats. These will last longer, block out more light, and make for an overall better appearance.

 

In conclusion, why buy cheaply made or constructed blinds that are more suitable to limited light usage in residences? If you save a few dollars initially, how much will you save when you have to replace it in a year or two?

 

Window coverings are an investment. Spend wisely and purchase the longest lasting products you can buy. You will not go wrong with value realized window coverings.

 

For further information about mini-blinds and vertical blinds, check out our website or "click to connect" to speak with one of our specialized representatives.