What it Really Means When You Ask for Blackout Blinds

"Can I get blackout window shades?" Of course you can! However, is that what you really mean when you ask your window covering professional that question?

A good window covering specialist worth their salt will dig a little deeper into what the customer is really asking when it comes to blackout window coverings. First, we need to discuss semantics because sometimes although some things sound like they are the same thing, there are subtle shades of meaning (no pun intended) when referring to a common idea. For example, our potential clients will ask for a quote for shutters, when what they really mean is they want a quote for blinds. Or, another example is when we are asked to measure for curtains, when what the customer really wants are shades. These are all window coverings, however each one is quite different from each other. It's important to get the correct definition.

Let's go back to the original question: What does blackout mean? Often we will ask our client, "Do you want to block out all the light? Do you want it Las Vegas dark? or is some light okay." This is crucial because there will be applications for total blackout when it is appropriate, for instance when using a room to process film, or a meeting room for video conferencing.

How Much Darkness Do you Really Need?

In general people want to block a significant amount of light for bedrooms, home office, or a media room which would allow them to control the light coming into the room. The window covering industry has developed different terms that describe the amount of light the window covering will allow. They use words such as "Light Dimming", "Room Darkening", and "Opaque". Determining how much darkness the client needs or wants is a necessity. With most window coverings that are light blocking there is some light that seeps in around the edges. This is the case whether it is drapes, cellular shades, or blinds. A window treatment specialist will know how to provide what the client is really requesting. They will know ways to eliminate the light to the proper degree.

Do you want it Las Vegas dark?

The takeaway is that your designer or window covering salesperson will help you to determine that you are talking about blackout, opaque, light filtering, or sheer coverage for your windows. They will help you filter through all the available options so that you are getting the best product for your unique needs.

At Window Fashionista we are happy to guide you through the process. Please contact us if you are needing this specific type of assistance and are unable to sort through all the window covering options for your window covering needs. Our partner Paul Kempler with Kempler Design has thirty plus years experience in Northern Nevada helping his clients determine their needs whether it be blocking the light, or letting it shine!