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Vertical Blinds are often referred to as a window covering of the past, or an “outdated” product. Older buildings, offices and homes that have not seen a window covering change in years, consistently have the same vertical blinds. In comparison, others believe that vertical blinds are the best window treatment to cover wide windows or sliding patio doors, and here at Shade Works, we couldn’t agree more! Due to the fact that everyone is entitled to their own opinion it looked like this debate would continue forever.
More recently this argument has seen new evidence and new advancements in the industry to shift the debate in a different direction. Let us introduce to you: Panel Track Shades. Quite new in the industry, these window coverings provide very similar function to the vertical blinds, but, at the same time, maintain a slightly different appearance. The greater debate now exists between vertical blinds and panel track shades. However, before you choose a side it is important to learn about each product specifically. From there it is up to you to decide which window treatment suits you best. One fact will always remain however, these 2 products are, by far, the best to cover your wide windows and sliding doors.
VERTICAL BLINDS For a window covering to be around for approximately 100 years and still maintain its value, and stamp in the industry, is quite impressive. Once used in almost every office building in the world, these blinds continue to impress by providing the absolute best function for wide windows and sliding doors. The vertical pieces slide to the left, right or middle with the use of a cord and end up tightly stacked away to give you a clear view to the outside world. This is one major advantage over the panel track shades, as the vanes are able to conjugate in a tighter formation in comparison. Furthermore, these blinds have the ability to have open or closed slats (with one twist of the wand) which allows for efficient and effective light control into the room.
On the flip side, due to the number of slats required, the vertical blind system might be more prone to damage or problems when compared to the panel track shades. For example, a window with a width of 100” might require up to 15-20 vertical pieces, while the panel track shade system would only use 4 panels. Again, it depends on the consumer’s preference, but this is something to consider. PANEL TRACK SHADES With advancements in technology the window coverings industry was able to introduce panel track shades. This system is similar in function to the vertical blinds, but differentiates with its overall appearance. Despite not being able to open and close the panels for light control, the system is able to incorporate light filtering, blackout, print or solar fabrics for a more precise light control system. In other words, consumers have the ability to keep the panels closed across the window, but still allow light into the room through the light filtering, print or solar fabrics. In addition, there is one feature that stands above the rest and is specific to Shade Works Window Fashions’ products. Shade Works gives consumers the ability to fabric match within the same home, or even the same room. For example, if you have a small window in your living room across from your sliding patio door, Shade Works will give you the ability to use the same fabric on your roller or roman shade covering the window AND on your panel track shades across the room. Wow. Talk about a dream come true for interior designers.
On the downside, there are 2 factors that the vertical blind extraordinaires can use against the panel track shades. One, due to the wider panels, when the pieces are pulled across the window and land on the left or right side they will slightly restrict the view of the outside. Two, the panel track shade system tends to be a little higher in price compared to the vertical blinds. Now that you have heard both sides of the story, learned about the products (specifically the pros and cons) you can officially enter the great debate and take a side on this matter. Both products clearly have their upsides and downfalls, but at the end of the day you can never go wrong with choosing one of these products to cover your wide windows or sliding doors. For more information do not hesitate to call us at 1-888-870-2130 or visit our Sample Department for Free Samples to see and feel the difference between the two products. Have a great day.