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Vertical blinds in a den

Is It Time To Replace Those Outdated Vertical Blinds In Tampa?

August 13, 2019

In the 1970’s, homeowners in Tampa were searching for a window treatment that would sufficiently cover large, picture windows and sliding glass doors. Hence, vertical -- or Venetian -- blinds became an efficient window covering that employed long vinyl stats that hung loosely from a track.

However, that was ancient history, and these vinyl treatments are beginning to resemble out-of-date relics that should go back to the past. Now, there are cleaner and more energy-efficient window coverings that let you update your decor and replace those vertical blinds.

The Problems With Vertical Blinds

While vertical blinds were cutting edge in the 70s, now we see them for their inefficiency rather than their benefits.

Panel track blinds in bright living room Plantation shutters on sliding door
  • The slats bang together. With a modest breeze from an air conditioner -- or even when someone walks by -- they clang together.

  • They break easily. One small tug or bump and you can pull off a slat or misalign a vane so they can’t rotate or open correctly.

  • They show wear and tear. Vertical blinds are usually composed of vinyl that yellows, fades, and can easily get stained with moisture or dirt.

  • They won’t adequately cover your windows. Because these window treatments sway and snap so easily, it’s not uncommon to see sunlight peek through the sides or a missing slat.

What Are More Effective Treatments Than Vertical Blinds?

To improve your old-fashioned vertical blinds, you have plenty of wonderful options:

Plantation shutters in kitchen 
  • Plantation Shutters: Unlike vertical blinds, plantation shutters are timeless. With their thick louvers, plantation shutters will block sun glare while adding a layer of privacy. They fully fill the window so they won’t swing in the breeze or snap off easily. If you pick a faux wood plantation shutter, like our Polywood® shutters, then you’ll also get an extra benefit of energy efficiency.

Window shades in room overlooking ocean
  • Cellular shades: Cell shades can replace your vertical blinds on full wall windows, as they are made from a material that refreshes your decor. Available in many different colors, these window treatments can stop light by opening and closing top-down or bottom-up. Cell shades also are available in sheer material so outside light can brighten the room without the glare. Find more options for window shades in Tampa.

Panel tracks in sunroom
  • Panel Tracks: Panel tracks can resemble vertical blinds, as they are attached to a suspended track. These wood or fabric panels aren’t shown to have the same problems as vertical blinds though, as the panels are thicker and more substantial.

Let Sunburst Shutters Help You Modernize Your Old Vertical Blinds

If you’re thinking of replacing your obsolete vertical blinds, then just call your Tampa Sunburst rep. We’ll bring you different coverings to see what window treatment is best for your home. Just call 813-580-7288 for your no-cost consultation.