Selecting the Best Window Coverings, Part One: The Terminology

I love window treatments –  they are usually my favourite thing to design. In addition to being beautiful and functional, window coverings are an essential part of making a space feel complete. Without them, I always think a space feels like it’s missing something. 

One of the biggest challenges I find homeowners have when selecting window coverings is understanding all the available options, especially when brands use different names for similar products. I wanted to put together this overview of the various types of treatments so you are comfortable with the terminology and have all the information you need to make the best window covering decisions for your home.

Shades or Blinds? Does it matter?

First thing first: shades vs. blinds, drapes vs. curtains – does it really matter what we call them? Honestly? It really doesn’t matter to me. I find that the terms “shades” and “blinds” are used interchangeably, and while there is technically a difference, it’s more important to understand the different styles than to name them correctly. Generally, I use “blinds” when referring to coverings made from solid material (like wood or vinyl) and “shades” when referring to fabric options.

Now, I have heard people argue passionately about the difference between “curtains” and “drapes” and with so many definitions and regional differences, even I can’t give you a definitive answer. You will usually hear me use “drapery” just because it’s the term I prefer.

Window Treatments & Light Control

The opacity of a window treatment determines how much light the treatment lets through into your room. The most common options are sheer, light filtering, room darkening and blackout. For more details, check out this blog post from one of my favourite manufacturers. 

What are the Different Types of Window Coverings?

Now that we’ve gotten that taken care of, let’s get into the nitty-gritty of the different window treatment options.

Horizontal Blinds | Vertical Blinds | Roller & Solar Shades | Zebra Shades | Sheer Shades| Roman & Natural Shades | Draperies

Horizontal Blinds

This treatment was made with slats of wood, vinyl or metal of varying widths tied together with cords. They could be raised, lowered or tilted to control light and privacy. I say “was” because, with the introduction of new Canadian window treatment cord regulations in 2022, horizontal blinds are harder to find.

New versions that comply with the cord safety requirements are being released, so we may see the rise in their popularity again. 

Vertical Blinds

The vertical blind was a long-term favourite for patio doors. Similar to horizontal blinds, they have long panels of vinyl or stiff fabric that hang vertically from a header across your window or door. Vertical blinds have decreased in popularity in recent years.

If you love the functionality of vertical blinds, but want a more contemporary look, check out the sheer shades section – these also come in a vertical option!

Roller Shades

Roller shades are a single panel of fabric that is, you guessed it, on a roll. These are usually installed within the window frame and may or may not have a small decorative valance for a more finished look. Remember those old vinyl shades that you would tug down, and they would snap up to the top of the window? Yeah, they’re much better now – trust me! 

Fabric options for roller shades include various colours, patterns and materials as well as multiple options for light control. 

Solar Shades

Solar shades are a special name for roller shades with a specialty fabric. Solar shades block out the sun without blocking out your view. They help with energy efficiency and offer protection from UV rays.

Cellular Shades

Sometimes called honeycomb or accordion shades, cellular shades’ unique construction creates a cell (or pocket) that helps make them incredibly energy efficient. They have a pleated look and come in a variety of fabrics, colours and opacities. 

Zebra Shades

Zebra shades are a unique fabric window treatment with alternating bands of sheer and opaque or blackout fabrics. Sometimes called banded shades, the stripes can be raised or lowered to control the amount of light allowed through.

Sheer Shades

Sheer shades (also known as Silhouette shades) operate in a similar fashion to horizontal blinds but are made entirely of fabric. Instead of rigid slats, fabrics of different opacities created the horizontal panels. Instead of strings, they are held together by sheer panels, allowing the fabric panels to tilt open or closed to adjust light.

There is also a variation of the sheer shade in a vertical format that has the functionality of a vertical blind but the elegance of drapery.

Roman Shades

Roman shades are fabric treatments that can be raised or lowered, creating decorative pleats or folds in the shade. Usually custom-made, they can be created in almost any fabric to match and coordinate with your decor. Due to their custom nature you also have the option to add trims, decorative pulls or even multiple fabrics on one shade.

Natural Shades

Similar to roman shades in construction and look, natural shades (or “bamboo” shades) are made with natural materials like wood, grass and bamboo instead of fabric. These come in a variety of colours and materials and can be lined or unlined based on your light control needs.

Draperies/Curtains

Probably the most well-known window treatments, draperies or curtains have probably been around since we started weaving fabrics. They are excellent for creating privacy and sound absorption. Draperies add softness to your space and can be completely customizable with fabrics, trims and decorative sewing. In addition, drapery hardware (the rod, brackets and end caps/finials) has even more customization options and can be both practical and decorative.

Now that we’ve covered all the basics of what treatments are available stay tuned for part two, where I’ll go through how to pick the best window coverings for your home.