Standard Shading vs Blackout

Standard Shading vs Blockout

In terms of shading performance, you’d think that more is more, right? Not necessarily. While it is true that blackout blinds are excellent for bedrooms and boast an assortment of practical qualities, that doesn’t mean that you should automatically dismiss our popular standard shading solutions. Depending on the function of your room, it is important to consider both options. Or you could let us do the weighing up for you; here’s our compilation of the respective pros and cons.

Blockout Pros

For tackling insomnia or just generally helping you to achieve your best sleep possible, there is nothing better than a blockout blind. Even if it is the middle of the day, these fabrics don’t let any light filter into the room, creating the perfect conditions for rest. Regulate your child’s nap times or get some well deserved kip yourself whenever you need to. The technical construction also prevents heat from passing easily through the material, trapping warmth in during the winter and keeping it out during the summer. Over time, this will significantly reduce your energy bill and keep you and your family comfortable all year round.

Blockout Cons

Exceptional blockout performance sometimes comes at the cost of flexibility. While Roller blinds typically provide the best window coverage, there is limited shading options as the blinds simply lift or lower. Therefore, lighter fabrics or Vertical and Venetian blinds are more recommended for living rooms or study spaces where you want some natural light but with just enough shading to reduce glare. For example, blockout materials would be ideal for a home cinema room but less than perfect if trying to work from your laptop without resorting to fully artificial light sources.

Standard Shading Pros

On the other hand, our standard shading blinds are less ruthless and allow a certain degree of light to gently filter through and bathe your room in a soft glow. This enables greater versatility without the ‘all or nothing’ aspect of blockout blinds. Instead, achieve a happy medium that sets a perfect ambience for your kitchen, living room, bathroom or any area not used for sleeping. Our sheer blinds take this effect to the extreme, granting complete privacy while preserving your view of the outside and much of the sun’s light. You can watch television free from any irritating reflections, without plunging yourself into complete darkness.

Standard Shading Cons

There are, of course, times when a pitch-black environment is desirable. Namely, when sleeping, enjoying a movie or simply experiencing one of those times when you just need to lie down in a dark, quiet room (no judgement). If there is sunlight or streetlights outside your window, you won’t achieve a full darkening effect with standard shading and it is best to opt for a blockout blind in these instances.  

In short, it is definitely worth considering when and how you will use your rooms before deciding between blockout or standard shading as they each have unique benefits. Browse both collections on our website or get in touch with a member of our team today to discuss your specific needs.