Vertical vs Venetian Blinds: Which is Right for your Home?

The devil is in the details when it comes to comparing vertical and Venetian blinds. While both styles are popular, small differences might mean one is more suitable for your home. Learn about the finer details below so you can make an informed choice.

Light Control

Window coverings aren’t good for much if they don’t let you effectively control the light that enters your home.

The venetian style provides excellent light control. Not only can you adjust the angle of the slats to direct light, but you can raise them entirely to let as much light in as possible. However, with venetians, it’s impossible to get the slats to close up entirely so some light will always filter in. Light may also creep in around the edges of these shades as well.

Vertical blinds function in a similar manner. However, as the slats hang vertically, they will retract to one side of the window rather than the top. Like venetians, they aren’t a block-out solution. However, they do give you a range of options to filter light.

Privacy

Similarly, both styles allow you to control your privacy. You can adjust the slats to block out both light and prying eyes, for instance. Additionally, if you angle the slats in certain ways, you can let light in without compromising your privacy.

Easy to Clean

Many styles of window coverings can be fiddly to clean. Unfortunately, this includes both venetian and vertical styles. You will need to regularly dust both sides of every slat to keep them clean.

This task is slightly easier with vertical slats though. This is because less dust will settle on them as there is less horizontal surface area.

To clean either style of blinds, you often only need a dusting cloth. Simply wipe down each slat, collecting any dust. Before using any cleaning products, check the manufacturer’s cleaning instructions to avoid damaging your shades. For instance, some products may not be suitable for use on wooden Venetians.

Control Mechanisms

When deciding between vertical and Venetian window shades, there’s little contrast in control mechanisms. Both are raised with a chain-and-pulley system. However, this can be slightly more complicated with the venetian style as multiple cords or chains are required to ensure the slats raise together and stay level.

On the other hand, the vertical style is much simpler. A chain connects to the base of each slat, linking them to the pulley. When the pulley is used, it draws the slats together.

Typically, to adjust the direction of the slats for either styles, another cord or chain will be used. Sometimes, it might be a twistable rod or wand.

While these are simple and accepted mechanisms, cords and chains can present choking hazards for young children and pets. As a result, you may need to consider another style of window covering.

Longevity

While both styles are long lasting, mechanical issues can occur. For instance, the cords of venetians can become tangled and damaged, leaving the slats crooked.

Vertical slats have been known to bend and twist. However, modern examples have undergone structural changes, like weighting the bottom of each slat to keep them straight. This has helped reduce the chance of this problem.

Materials

Wood and aluminium are popular choices for the venetian style. However, this does minimise your options for colour.

On the other hand, fabric is the standard for vertical blinds. While there’s less choice when it comes to materials, you are likely to have a greater range of colours to pick from.

When it comes to deciding on window coverings for your home, a lot of factors need to be considered. However, both vertical and Venetian shades are popular choices for good reason. They’re both durable and easy to use, as well as giving you effective control over light. While they do have flaws, they’re often the standard other window coverings are held up to.