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By: Natalie Elmhurst
Updated: 4/10/2026
If you're struggling with regulating indoor temperatures or want to remodel your home, consider investing in new window coverings. High-quality window treatments can completely transform your space.
The first step in the buying process is to explore the differences between shades, blinds, and drapes. Each style has different functional benefits and aesthetic advantages. Below is our window treatment buying guide, which you can use to compare the styles and find the best option for your home.
For many, the first step in this process is to measure your windows. Keep in mind that this won’t always be necessary if you partner with a full-service company, but for those who need it, we’ve got some steps to help you through it.
To measure your windows for new window treatments, you’ll need:
(If your windows are too high or out of reach, consider using a professional. At Stoneside, we do ALL the measurements for you.)
When you’re ready, measure from one end of the window to the other. Make sure you pay attention to the type of measurement you need, interior vs. exterior. An interior measurement is from edge to edge inside the trim. An exterior measurement includes the surrounding wall trim.
(Typically, blinds are an interior measurement. Shades can be interior or exterior, depending on your style goals.)
Record your measurement to the nearest quarter inch on a piece of paper.
Do the same thing, but this time vertically. Again, ensure you’re using the correct type of measurement per your manufacturer's instructions.
Record your measurement to the nearest quarter inch on a piece of paper. Repeat these steps for all your windows, even if you believe they are the same measurements. You’ll want your measurements as accurate as possible to ensure a snug fit and optimal light and temperature control.
Many shade and blind companies will outsource the installation teams, subcontracting this task to other companies. At Stoneside, we do things a bit differently, and according to our customers, a whole lot better. Stoneside is proud to have our very own installation team. We’ve done extensive vetting and training, so these installers are the best in the industry. They’re focused on giving you a 5-star experience, and they’re experts on all of our products, as opposed to having general knowledge on how window treatments work.
Next, it’s helpful to understand the main categories of window treatments and how they differ. Window treatments come in a variety of styles, materials, and functions, each designed to meet different needs for light control, privacy, energy efficiency, and aesthetics.
This guide will walk you through the most common types of window treatments, helping you understand their features, benefits, and typical uses.
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Blinds have long been a favorite for homeowners and interior designers. Their function, combined with their classic look, makes them an easy choice for many homes. Blinds offer the timeless, slatted look that keeps a room feeling clean and polished, but the right blind can also be warm and comforting or inspire a fresh and new feeling. Each type of blind is different. Check out our breakdown of the most common types of blinds available so you can filter out what will work and what won’t.
Love the look of wood blinds, but the price tag has you rethinking it? Faux wood blinds might be your perfect answer. Faux wood blinds are convenient and easy to clean, making them a top contender for blind lovers.
Wood blinds will undoubtedly remain a favorite for years to come. Their traditional look is hard to pass up, and modern touches that limit the look of cord holes make this classic choice more appealing than ever.
Vertical blinds have come a long way in recent years, maintaining their place as a favorite for many homes and businesses. Simple and efficient, vertical blinds now offer more material and style options than ever before.
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If you think there are a ton of different shades out there, you’re right. There are many shades, each with its own look, feel, and function. The good news? You’ve got options to choose from, so you’ll have better luck finding the perfect fit.
The roller shade is known as one of the most versatile window treatments, and is gaining momentum in interiors. No matter the room or the style of the home, these heavy-hitters harmonize with many different designs. Roller shades come in a wide range of materials, so you’re sure to find the right texture, color, and opacity for your space.
Solar shades are often confused with roller shades because they look very similar, and for good reason. Solar shades are actually a subset of roller shades, but differ in their main function: solar shades are crafted specifically for filtering sunlight.
This functionality goes beyond simple light control. Solar shades are crafted to control the amount of visible light, block harmful UV rays, and mitigate heat transfer. This makes it a top choice for homeowners with larger windows or intense sun exposure.
Cellular shades (or ‘insulating shades’) are known as THE shade for climate control. Their unique design keeps temperature fluctuations at bay, making them a favorite in areas with seasonal temperature swings. Low lows and high highs? Keep those outdoor temps where they belong with cellular shades.
Cellular shades are the most energy-efficient window treatment available and remain an understated yet very popular window treatment.
Love the idea of blinds but don’t love the material? You’re in luck. Zebra shades have a slatted look, but without the solid slats. Transitional shades are crafted from layered transparent fabric with darker cloth vanes, giving them a striped look without the solid slats found in blinds. You get just the right amount of light with transitional shades without losing your view.
Zebra shades make a wonderful alternative to blinds. When it comes to their look, transitional shades offer a unique, “interior designer” feel thanks to the array of design options. Wavy lines, geometric shapes, or simple stripes give your home a pop of personality or a soft, classic character.
Roman shades have been around for centuries and are still one of the most sought-after window shades on the market today. Beloved by homeowners and interior designers alike, these classic window shades are timeless and beautiful. They are often chosen because of their high-end look which is a bit more subtle than drapery.
Roman shades are an excellent choice if you’re looking for a shade that has high functionality and gorgeous appeal. They’re also a great option for open-concept living. You can opt for drapery panels for more formal spaces like the dining room, while keeping things more casual with Roman shades in the same material in adjacent spaces.
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What comes to mind when you think of drapery? Elegance? Luxury? Drama? If so, you’re right. Those are all used to describe draperies, which have been a dream window treatment for many designers and homeowners alike. Drapes add a high-end feel to any room, but don’t have to be a statement piece. They can also be a subtle finishing touch that pulls a room together.
You may not think of valances as a window treatment, but they’re definitely not something to dismiss. The right valance can bring your home, your window, and your window treatment together.
Just because you’re outdoors doesn’t mean you always want to be exposed to the elements or to your neighbors. Outdoor window treatments help block unwanted light, act as a slight windbreak, and provide privacy for your patio, porch, or California room.
Please note: Stoneside does not offer outdoor window treatments at this time.
These days, motorized window treatments aren’t a thing of luxury, they’re expected. Modern interior design is about comfort, but it’s also about practicality. No one wants to have to open and close their window treatments while avoiding knocking over the lamp or stretching over the furniture. Larger windows and out-of-reach windows make manual manipulation not only an inconvenience but also a safety concern, even downright impossible in some cases.
Motorization is the answer. With the major bonus being safe for children and pets, motorization gives you a luxury feel but a practical benefit that few would choose to do without. When you’re looking into window treatments, be sure to check whether your choice can be motorized or integrated with a Smart Home device.
Can’t decide which window treatment is best for your home? Here’s a side-by-side comparison:
| Window Treatment | Distinctive Traits | Material | Function | Pros | Cons | Commonly Used In |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Faux Wood Blinds | Natural element without the real wood restrictions | Polymer blends, vinyl, laminate, and other synthetic materials | Light control, privacy | Water-resistant, budget-friendly, easy to clean | Heavy material | Kitchens, bathrooms, basements, offices |
| Wood Blinds | Natural, timeless feel, classic slatted look | Natural wood | Light control, privacy | Elegant and refined appearance, easily cleaned with wood cleaner | Prone to warping | Sunrooms, living rooms, offices, dining rooms |
| Vertical Blinds | Vertical slats, complete coverage of window | Fabric, vinyl, aluminum, or faux wood | Light control, privacy | Best for sliding glass doors and patio doors | Light gaps | Living rooms, sunrooms, dining rooms |
| Roller Shades | Modern, sleek design | Vinyl, polyester, PVC, PET, bamboo | Light control, versatility | Streamlined, minimalist design | Poor insulation and limited privacy | Living rooms, offices, bedrooms, nurseries |
| Solar Shades | Protects against UV rays | PVC, fabric, HDPE mesh | UV protection, temperature control | Top performer for light control and glare reduction | Lack of privacy and light gaps | Sunrooms, living spaces, offices |
| Cellular Shades | Distinct honeycomb cell structure | Polyester fabric | Temperature control, privacy | Can help lower monthly energy bills | Hard to clean | Living areas, bathrooms, bedrooms |
| Zebra Shades | Slatted double fabric layers | Fabric | Light control | Modern appeal | Lacks privacy | Offices, bedrooms, living rooms |
| Roman Shades | High-end look and feel | Fabrics, woven wood | Privacy, light control | Excellent privacy and light control | Hard to clean | Living areas, kitchens, dining rooms |
| Drapery | Luxury appeal | High-end, durable fabric | Privacy, light control, energy efficiency | Elegant aesthetic | Hard to clean | Living rooms, bedrooms, dining rooms |
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High-quality window coverings are not a cheap investment. To get window treatments to last 15 years or longer, work with a reputable supplier and invest in high-quality materials. There are many different vendors available. Here's how they compare:
If you're working with a tight budget, you may feel tempted to buy from a box store. Box stores will offer trending styles and popular materials; however, most come in pre-determined measurements and styles. This means you might not get a perfect fit for an oddly-shaped or larger-than-usual window.
Buying blinds or shades from a professional online window treatment company will typically offer more customization and flexibility. The cost may be higher, but your window treatments will likely last longer. However, when you buy from them online, you’ll be expected to measure and prep yourself before ordering.
Stoneside provides a white-glove experience from start to finish. Our consultants aren’t salespeople, they’re designers. And they’ll come right to your home to give you face-to-face insights into Stoneside’s process and share their interior design knowledge. You have access to all of the details, so you can select your window treatments with confidence. Our team will also handle the measuring, preparation, and installation, so you don't have to worry about it.
If you're ready to invest in new window treatments, Stoneside is here to help. Contact us today for an in-person design consultation. Our professional designers will walk you through different styles, fabrics, and add-on options, helping you tailor your window treatments to your needs.
To measure your windows for new window treatments, you will need a measuring tape and a pencil. Measure the width and height of the window opening at three points, record the smallest measurements for both dimensions, and choose an inside or outside mount based on your preference and the window type.
Shades and blinds differ in their design, function, and aesthetic. Shades are made from a single continuous piece of fabric and provide more insulation and light-blocking, while blinds consist of slats that can be adjusted for light control and privacy. Composite blinds are durable and budget-friendly; faux wood blinds mimic the look of real wood and resist moisture; wood blinds offer a natural, timeless appeal; and vertical blinds are perfect for covering large windows and sliding doors.
Motorization gives you a luxury feel but a practical benefit few would choose to do without. With motorized window treatments, you can open and close them without having to worry about knocking over objects or stretching over furniture. It is also a safer option for children and pets. Motorized window treatments are becoming increasingly popular, and with Stoneside, you can check whether your chosen window treatments can be motorized or integrated with a Smart Home device.
