Are you on the fence about commercial window blinds and aren't sure if you need them or not? Well, consider that, according to the Department of Energy, homes lose about 30% of all their heating energy through windows. By protecting your windows, you can negate this risk. However, it's important that you understand the various blind options available to you, as well as other critical factors. Here are three things that we're confident you didn't know about commercial window blinds and how they can impact your choice.

1. Available Types

Did you know how many different types of windows and blinds are available to you? Probably not, and that's okay; not many people do. There are various types, including commercial windows. Light commercial windows are your first option, and they're appropriate for low-rise buildings. Office buildings and other facilities often use them.

Standard commercial windows are larger and have higher load requirements, making them suitable for mid-rise buildings. Architectural windows are also great for mid to high-rise buildings. How do the blinds for these windows vary? Typically, they vary based on the size of each window.

For instance, we've seen that a light commercial window may only be 3-4 feet wide in some buildings, while commercial windows may be 5-10 feet wide, and architectural windows may be even larger. The blinds you'll need will vary based on those needs. Furthermore, they'll vary based on how much air a window blocks, as some might let in a little air and need heavier curtains. Make sure to choose the right blinds for your windows.

2. Factors to Think About

When choosing commercial window blinds for your facility, there are many factors you have to consider. First are style and décor. While you don't want to focus extensively on these factors over other performance-based factors, your commercial blinds should look nice and bring a little style to your facility.

Next, you need to choose blinds based on energy efficiency and light control. By this, we mean how well they block energy from leaving your building and how well they minimize sun exposure. Great blinds should not only keep excessive UV rays out but also minimize heat loss or increases.

Now, you need to pay attention to things like durability and sustainability and pick blinds that are designed to last a long time. There are several things you can consider here, including the material type of the windows and much more. Always read the "age limit" of blinds to gauge this factor.

Lastly, window blinds should have strong privacy and view controls, as well as automation options that streamline your experience. After all, there are now many automatic blinds you can use to control when your blinds open and close. Consider these features to ensure great results.

Please note that you should also make sure you consider your budget and balance factors based on what you can pay. Always go for performance over aesthetics when choosing your blinds. You can always emphasize them with stylistic upgrades later, if needed, to keep them looking great.

3. Materials to Consider

Blinds come in many types, with aluminum being the most common because they're inexpensive, light, and control light very well. They also withstand humidity and temperature changes well. They're not the most attractive, which is why faux and real-wood blinds are gaining popularity.

These blinds provide a more decorative and attractive look that never goes out of style. While they do have problems with humidity and temperature changes, they're great if you want an attractive look. Additionally, keep in mind that you can also choose between various opening and closing styles for your blinds. For instance, you can pick vertical, cellular, and more that open in varying ways.

These different considerations can greatly affect which commercial window blinds you choose, as well as the techniques you use to install them. Just as importantly, it can affect who you call because some blind companies might be highly specialized. No matter your situation, it's important to reach out to professionals to learn more about your blind options. Elite Window Coverings will work with you to make this process smoother and ensure you feel comfortable picking whatever commercial blinds make the most sense for you.