Blinds can be difficult to clean or keep well-maintained, which might make you wonder if they are worth having. But blinds are very convenient window coverings and come in several colors and styles that complement your house decor. Is there a way to keep them nice without the work?
Windows with built-in blinds, or blinds between the glass, are a safe alternative to normal blinds. They require less work and don’t break so easily, but are more expensive and have limited design choices. Built-in blinds are safer for pets and children, but the windows are less energy-efficient.
When you’re ready to remodel and create a different look for your home, why not consider windows with built-in blinds? Keep reading to discover the pros and cons, and manufacturers, of windows with built-in blinds.
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Pros and Cons of Windows With Built-In Blinds
Built-In Blinds Require Less Maintenance
When blinds are between panes of glass in a window or door, they have less chance of attracting dust and debris. No dust equals less time spent cleaning blinds.
While manufacturers claim that no dust will get to the blinds, prior owners have complained that the blinds get dusty over time, making the blinds more difficult to clean. When you’re looking for windows with built-in blinds, be sure to get windows that can open easily so you can clean the blinds.
Not only are the blinds easy to keep clean within the glass, but the windows are also easier to keep clean without the blinds in the way. Spray and wipe, without the need to move the blinds.
You Have Limited Design Choices
While blinds come in several color choices or material choices, like bamboo or wood, built-in blinds usually come in vinyl only, with limited color choices. They do come in neutral colors to match your decor and color scheme.
Most blinds come with options like aluminum, bamboo, pine, and vinyl, or even Venetian blinds. But when blinds are put in between glass panes, you lose many of these options because of how they are installed. So any windows that need special treatments will not be right for windows with built-in blinds.
Enclosed Blinds Don’t Break Easily
When you have young children, it always seems that blinds represent a challenge to children. They are easy to break, and when children want to look out the window, they often find a way to break off pieces of the blinds. Pets often do similar actions when chasing a bug or another pet.
But with built-in blinds, they can’t reach them to break them, and so they stay newer longer.
Plus, the fact that they are in between two or three panes of glass keeps them from being handled often. When the blinds are not handled, they don’t become as brittle as fast as outside blinds. And with 10-20 year warranties, the blinds can last almost as long as your windows.
Windows With Built-In Blinds Cost More
Blinds by themselves are not very expensive, but when combined with windows, they cost more due to being a specialty product. You may pay up to $1,000 per brand-new window, and if you need to replace the blinds, you will pay at least $100 per window.
The upside to this point is that you won’t need to replace the blinds very often, which can save you money over the long term. Most manufacturers offer a 10-year warranty on their windows with built-in blinds. Imagine replacing traditional blinds every two to three years, or so, and how much that would cost. At an average cost of $30 per set, that works out to be around $900-$1,000 over ten years.
With care, many things outlast their warranties for many years. If the warranty on these windows is good for ten years, that means they can last many more years without any issues. If you don’t need to buy traditional blinds for 20 years, that will pay for these windows twice over.
Built-In Blinds Are Safer for Pets and Children
Traditional blinds with cords are a hazard if you have small children or pets, as they tend to get caught up in the blinds, which could be dangerous. But when the blinds are enclosed in the glass, and the controls slide, pets and children are protected.
Windows with built-in blinds can reduce the risk significantly and keep small hands and paws off your investment. And without any cords or blinds on the outside of the window, that is one less thing you need to worry about in your hectic life.
Windows With Built-In Blinds Are Less Energy Efficient
Normally, windows are filled with argon gas, which completely seals it from drafts. But when blinds are added, the argon cannot seal it completely, unless there are three panes of glass in the window. Windows with built-in blinds can be less energy efficient than other windows because of the two layers unless they use three panes.
Another thing to think about is the frame on the window. Wood, or wood veneer, tends to rot after several years, making them much less energy efficient. But if you choose integrated windows set in a vinyl frame, they will last longer and stay more energy efficient.
Built-In Blinds Are Quiet and Convenient
Imagine a patio door with blinds being opened and closed at all times of the day. Now imagine having a baby trying to sleep nearby. The sound of the clicking and clacking against the door can create a lot of noise that can wake the baby and create more chaos in your home.
Now imagine a patio door with blinds in between the glass panes. Every time the door opens or closes, it’s silent. A baby can sleep right through that, giving you a peaceful afternoon.
If you have blinds outside your door, they clack and click against the door whenever it opens. They can also blow in front of the door, potentially getting slammed in the door jam when closed. But if your door has built-in blinds, they stay quiet and have zero risks of getting broken by being slammed in the door jam.
Windows with built-in blinds are convenient when you want to open or close them as well. They either have a metal slider that controls the blinds or has a lever on the window that raises or lowers them without that common lopsided effect so common in normal blinds.
Manufacturers of Windows With Built-In Blinds
Now it’s time to talk about which window manufacturers make the best windows with built-in blinds for your money. Look for windows built with argon gas and thick triple panes.
Pella Windows and Blinds
Pella is a well-respected maker of windows and doors, as well as blinds and other window dressings. With a limited lifetime warranty on most products, your purchase is covered from manufacturing defects under normal operating circumstances.
Pella offers several colors and styles that work with your decor and preferences. The integrated windows, or windows with built-in blinds, offer the blinds’ motorized operation to make it easier to open and close them. They also offer integrated windows with shades rather than blinds.
With attractive hardware and several colors to choose from, decorating your home will go smoother.
Andersen Windows and Doors
Andersen has been in business for over 115 years, creating quality doors and windows that people trust. Their blinds between the glass come in several colors and trimmed by either tan or white wood veneer. For energy-efficient windows, they triple glaze their glass for the E-Series system three window blinds.
They offer several architectural types of doors and windows to make your home reflect you and your tastes. Integrated windows are just one type of their offerings, but check with them if you are interested in this manufacturer.
Aspect and Endure Windows
Provia makes both the Aspect and Endure windows with built-in blinds, which are energy efficient and placed in a vinyl frame to stay nicer longer. They are made in the USA and have a 10-year warranty.
These windows have a unique feature that allows you to lift or tilt the windows for easier cleaning on both sides. The aluminum blinds are nestled between insulated glass, making your windows draft-free, making them efficient against most weather conditions.
The blinds are custom-made to fit any window, so if you have an unusually shaped window, check with ProVia before starting your project to see if they can create what you need for you. But they will need at least two weeks to make your windows for you.
Aeris Windows and Blinds
Aeris integrated windows and doors are made by the same company that produces the Aspect and Endure windows and blinds – ProVia. The main difference with the Aeris windows and doors is that the frame surrounding the glass comes in either vinyl or wood veneer. The Aeris and Endure lines offer several colors of blinds that will match your home decor.
They also offer integrated blinds for doors, but it will require additional lead time for other colors. Their colors are limited, but they offer mostly neutral colors like tan, cream, silver, and champagne.
Blink Blinds and Glass
Blink creates integrated windows that are insulated for greater energy efficiency. Because of the insulated glass, you won’t need to worry about whether you’re getting a triple pane window or a double pane, and you won’t lose any heat or cooling.
The Blink line of windows and blinds are produced by ODL, a company that has led the built-in blind industry for over 20 years. But they have developed an insulated glass for windows and doors for over 70 years.
The cordless blinds within Blink windows and doors are operated with stylish hardware that comes with a 10-year warranty with normal use conditions on the hardware and a 10-year warranty on the glass.
When to Choose Blinds Between the Glass
Your home reflects who you are and your style, including your choices of blind colors and window shapes. Choosing blinds outside of the windows or inside comes down to three factors: your budget, if you have small children or pets, and if you are renovating a house or building a new house.
Your Budget Determines Your Choice of Window Coverings
As mentioned before, new windows with built-in blinds can cost up to $1,000, and at least $100 to replace the blinds, if they break for some reason and are not covered by the warranty. Traditional blinds on the outer part of your window cost, on average, around $30 but will break more often. If you are looking for a long-term solution, built-in blinds might be the way to go if you have the budget for it.
If You Have Small Children or Pets in Your Home
Not needing to worry about your toddler getting tangled in the cords or your dog breaking the blinds can be worth the extra money. But if you don’t have small children or pets in your home, you may not want to spend the extra money.
Renovation or New Construction
When you’re renovating an old house, you may need to have custom windows with built-in blinds made due to the odd shape of the window. Buying different window coverings might be the way to go if the windows are still in good shape. However, if you’re building a new home, it could be easier to create windows with built-in blinds without the added expense of custom windows.
Conclusion
There you have it–the pros and cons of windows with built-in blinds, as well as an idea where to buy them. Some opinions about built-in blinds are that they are inefficient, difficult to clean, and unattractive. Other opinions say that integrated blinds and windows keep your home neat, quiet, and safe with low-maintenance blinds.
Whichever option you choose, you want to choose windows that add to your home’s overall energy efficiency. Because if your windows let out the heat or cooling, you’re at square one and will need to start over in your home improvement project.
FAQs
Are windows with built-in blinds energy-efficient? ›
Windows with built-in blinds are often less energy efficient. This is because energy-efficient windows often contain an invisible gas such as Argon sealed in between the panes. Manufacturers are not able to add Argon or similar gases with built-in blinds.
Do built-in blinds get dusty? ›No Cleaning Required
But built-in blinds are between the panes of glass which is why they don't get dusty or dirty.
So how do windows with built-in blinds work? In these kinds of windows, the blinds sit inside the window between two panes of glass, rather than as a separate window treatment that lays over the inside of the window. The blinds are operated with a remote control or a magnetic slider that runs along the side.
What way do blinds go so no one can see in? ›Turn your blinds up. This direction is better for improved privacy too, as minimized gaps between the slats don't allow curious passersby to view the inside of the house. To let in a small amount of natural light, it's best to turn your blinds down and close them.
Are blinds between the glass worth it? ›Less Risk of Breakage
Wear and tear happens everywhere, but it is significantly reduced when the blinds are between the glass. Blinds can become brittle or break from homeowners opening, closing, and constantly cleaning them. This wear and tear lead to homeowners replacing their blinds every few years.
Closing the blinds throughout the day is the most effective way of keeping the heat out of the windows. This is because when closed, they lower the unnecessary solar heat gain by offering insulation to your windows.
Do dryer sheets repel dust on blinds? ›Just like with the TV, dryer sheets will repel dust and make blinds easier to clean over time.
How do you clean built in blinds? ›To remove smudges, fingerprints, etc. use a damp cloth or carefully remove the blinds from the unit and immerse the blinds in a tub or tray of lukewarm water and mild detergent. Rinse them with clear water, then let them air-dry completely before reinstalling and closing the hinged glass panel.
Do dust mites live on blinds? ›Fabric (polyester) vertical blinds
Fabric vertical blinds (also polyester) are again, not waterproof, meaning that the fabric will trap and hold onto particles that can trigger allergies, dust mites included, and also because they can't be wiped or washed clean.
What are integral blinds? Integral blinds are shades that are 'sandwiched' in-between double glazed panes of glass, found inside glazed windows, bifold doors and conservatories.
Do blinds go inside the window frame? ›
As long as your window frame has enough depth to mount blinds inside the opening, we almost always recommend an inside mount.
Do blinds go inside the window frame or outside? ›While you can mount shutters either inside or outside the window frame, it's best to mount them inside if you have decorative trim surrounding your windows that you want to show off. If you don't, or if you're covering a door that has a very shallow frame, mounting them on the outside of the frame is the way to go.
Can my neighbors see through my blinds? ›No, people outside would not be able to see anything of inside, not even movement close to the window, nor the shapes and outlines of things. They would, however, be able to see a diffuse glow of light if you have a reasonably bright light not too far from the window.
Can people see through blinds from outside? ›This means that when it comes to the solid fabric of the blind itself, you cannot see through blackout blinds from outside at night, or during the day for that matter either. Blackout blinds then do provide privacy at night, and won't let either light in or out, nor the sight of things best kept private.
What are window blinds called that let you see out but not in? ›Sheer roller blinds are great for those who want a touch of privacy without obstructing natural light. The blinds allow light in through the translucent fabric. This aids to soften the light, decreasing harsh glare in home offices for instance.
What are the cons of blinds? ›- On the other hand, blinds will need to be cleaned more often.
- In addition, blinds are less efficient at keeping in the heat.
- The window blind slats can easily get damaged, especially if you choose aluminium or plastic blinds.
- Blind cords can be a hazard around young children.
We often get asked the question 'do curtains and blinds work together? ' The answer is, for the most part, 'yes' – when paired, the two can bring out a flexible décor and ensure adequate blocking of light and privacy control. However, there are some style guidelines to follow to get the look just right.
What are low E built in blinds? ›The Low–E coating helps to prevent heat gain (or loss) in your home by acting as a kind of reflective shield, pushing radiant heat that tries to pass through the glass back to the source it originates from.
Do blinds make your house cooler? ›Window blinds—vertical (Venetian blinds) or horizontal slat-type (louvered-type)—are effective at reducing summer heat gain and reducing glare, while providing good daylight indoors.
Why you should stop closing your blinds during the day? ›While you may be focused on removing the dust in your home, according to an article published in Science Daily, letting the sunshine into your home through the windows can actually kill bacteria that live in the remaining dust and this can help decrease the risk of respiratory issues.
Do blinds make your house warmer? ›
Blinds insulate your home by trapping a layer of air between the fabric and the window when correctly measured and installed. This effectively seals the windows, preventing air from escaping through them. Pull up the blinds during the day for the best effect, allowing sunlight to warm the house.
Why do bugs not like dryer sheets? ›The reason for this? Most dryer sheets contain the ingredient linalool, which can be found in plants like lavender, basil, and coriander, all of which naturally repel common garden pests. Similar studies found that this ingredient is also useful for repelling bugs like mites, weevils, beetles, and German cockroaches.
What is the dryer sheet trick for dust? ›Use a dryer sheet to dust baseboards, crown molding, cabinets, and even electronics. Not only will it pick up dust, but it will also leave behind a thin layer of residue that can help prevent dust from settling in the future.
How do professionals clean blinds? ›Remember, many experts rely on workhorse tools like a microfiber cloth. They're inexpensive, easy to care for, and you can keep multiple on hand for cleaning jobs. They're ideal for cleaning blinds since they're less likely to leave behind the debris that you might get with a regular duster or feather duster.
Can blinds between glass be removed? ›To remove existing blinds or shades, first find the plastic tab at the top corner of the panel. Use it to grab the blind or shade and pull it straight out (1). Then slide the side opposite the plastic tab over and lift it off of the mounting pin.
How do you keep blinds dust free? ›- Leave your blinds in place to dust them. Just open the blinds and clean them from the top to the bottom with a lambswool or other type of duster. ...
- To use a microfiber cloth, close the blinds and wipe off the dust, again working from the top to the bottom.
- Sneezing.
- Runny nose.
- Itchy, red, or watery eyes.
- Stuffy nose.
- Itchy nose, mouth, or throat.
- Itchy skin.
- Postnasal drip (a flow of mucus from behind your nose into your throat)
- Cough.
Make sure the blinds are open so that air can circulate between the slats. After drying, wipe each slat with a fabric softener sheet to help repel dust. For exceptionally dirty blinds, especially those in kitchens, use a degreaser (view example on Amazon).
What kills dust mites? ›Wash all sheets, blankets, pillowcases and bedcovers in hot water that is at least 130 F (54.4 C) to kill dust mites and remove allergens. If bedding can't be washed hot, put the items in the dryer for at least 15 minutes at a temperature above 130 F (54.4 C) to kill the mites.
What is the box over blinds called? ›A cornice box is an ornamental element of window treatments that attach to your curtains or blinds. They are made out of solid materials (usually wood), and consist of fabric attached to a frame.
What are the plastic things on blinds called? ›
Carrier Clip. This clip protrudes from the carrier and holds the vanes of a vertical blind to the carrier. Also may be called a “stem” or “vane clip.” Center Stack. When vertical blinds are drawn open and the vanes stack in the middle of the head rail.
What are see through blinds called? ›Translucent Blinds – also called Light Filtering Blinds.
Translucent blinds are often used in kitchens, living rooms and dining rooms, as they provide good levels of privacy, but still offer a suitable amount of light.
Bathroom Window Blinds
Maintain a sleek, minimalistic look by foregoing elaborate curtains or draperies in the bathroom. Instead, install blinds or shutters that can close completely for privacy. Choose shades that perfectly match the color of your trim for a seamless effect.
While all blinds in your home don't have to match, they can if you prefer it that way or simply like a particular product very much. It's totally ok to use the same window treatment in every room if you like it.
How should blinds look on a window? ›To minimize light leakage and ensure privacy the blind should overlap the window opening by 4" on each side for a total of 8" on entire width. 2) Measure distance from where the top of the blind will be located to the window sill. The blind should overlap the window opening on the top and the bottom by at least 3".
Should blinds be lighter or darker than walls? ›Blinds can be lighter or darker than your walls, but there are a few things to keep in mind before choosing a color. To ensure that everything blends well together, the blinds and walls should be at least one shade lighter or darker than each other, but most importantly, they should also be a similar tone.
Does your house stay cooler with the blinds closed? ›Closed blinds serve to deflect the sun (and so, heat) before it gets into the room, which reduces unwanted solar gain and helps to keep your home cooler in turn.
Which side should blinds face? ›The time of year may also influence how you adjust the blinds. Blinds facing up let less sunlight enter the room, so you can keep it cooler in the summer by reducing heat from direct sun. In the winter, opening the blinds may help warm a room.
What type of window is most energy efficient? ›In terms of operable windows, hinged-sash windows such as casement and awning windows are typically the most energy efficient as they create a firm weathertight seal when closed.
What are the advantages to concealed blinds? ›Advantages to Concealing Blinds
There is access for easy repair, maintenance and replacement and the accumulation of dust is substantially reduced.
Do blinds reduce energy costs? ›
Blinds can reduce heat gain by 45% for a significant increase in energy performance. Energy efficiency isn't the only consideration, though —curtains can offer better soundproofing than blinds, as well as add an elegant, luxurious feel to your home's décor.
Are blinds considered energy efficient? ›Window blinds—vertical (Venetian blinds) or horizontal slat-type (louvered-type)—are effective at reducing summer heat gain and reducing glare, while providing good daylight indoors.
How can you tell if a window is energy efficient? ›First look for the ENERGY STAR label when buying new windows. Then review ratings on the energy performance label from the National Fenestration Rating Council (NFRC) to find the most efficient windows for your needs.
What are the best windows to prevent heat loss? ›As mentioned, double glazed windows are the best option for reducing heat loss in the home, since their air gaps create an additional layer of insulation. However, when it comes to insulation, a quality installation is equally important as the quality of the windows being installed.
What type of window provides the best air flow? ›Among all window types, casement windows provide the most control in terms of ventilation direction and intensity. According to the Efficient Windows Collaborative, since casement window sashes can be opened into an airstream, breezes that pass by can be directed into a certain area or room.
What are the disadvantages of blinds? ›- On the other hand, blinds will need to be cleaned more often.
- In addition, blinds are less efficient at keeping in the heat.
- The window blind slats can easily get damaged, especially if you choose aluminium or plastic blinds.
- Blind cords can be a hazard around young children.
While window treatments can help to add value to your home, there are some cases when the opposite holds true. If the blinds or shutters are outdated or in disrepair, that may end up lowering the value. Likewise, inexpensive plastic blinds purchased at hardware or home goods stores won't add anything to your home.
Is it better to have blinds inside or outside? ›The main advantages of hanging your blinds outside of the recess are that more light will enter the room when the blinds are open. You can block out more light when the blinds are closed. However, any items that you have placed on the windowsill won't be visible when you close the blinds.
How much should you spend on blinds? ›On average, a project will start around $250-300 per window, including all products. For heavily customized window treatments, the cost to install blinds, shades or draperies may be higher.
What is the difference between cheap and expensive blinds? ›More expensive blinds are inevitably made to a higher specification and a higher quality. The material used will be less likely to wear over time compared to a cheaper fabric that can easily rip and tear as they are not made to last for years to come. The colours will also be more vibrant, solid and even.
Should you keep blinds closed in winter? ›
In the winter, if you have south-facing windows, let the light shine in. The sun will help heat your home naturally, which takes some pressure off your furnace. For other windows, keep blinds and curtains close during the winter to keep heat inside your home.
What type of blinds are most energy efficient? ›Cellular shades are the most insulating interior shades available anywhere. While you might think your vinyl blinds are helping save energy, field studies have shown that cellular shades outperform traditional vinyl blinds in terms of energy efficiency.
What blinds are best for heat loss? ›The best blinds to insulate a window are Roman blinds with a thermal lining, real wood blinds and faux wood blinds; and also thermally insulating roller blinds and vertical blinds, these latter two being made with the additional thermal lining I mentioned above.