Gardening For Not-Quite Beginners

Blinds Up Or Down: Is There A Right Way?

When it comes to window treatments, the common question is — up or down? If you too are looking for an answer to this question, unfortunately, there isn't one. Whether or not you keep your blinds in an up or down position is more of a matter of personal preference than right or wrong, but yet, there are some differences between the options. 

Light Control

Whether you work the night shift, or you prefer acritical light over natural light if you want to minimize the amount of sunlight that peaks through the blinds, turn your blinds up. Upward-facing blinds don't block out 100% of the light. 

However, the slats rest closer together in this position, which reduces the amount of sunlight that can peak through. In a downward position, the slats don't fit as closely, so more light can peak through and brighten the room. So, if you prefer natural light, you should keep your blinds upward-facing whenever they are in the closed position.

Privacy

For the same reason that blinds facing in, a downward position can minimize the amount of light in the room, they also increase privacy. If you live in a neighborhood where the homes are closely built or a neighborhood with heavy traffic, it's a good idea to turn the blinds downward so that people walking by cannot look into your home.

However, the rules change if the window is on a lower level. Windows on the ground level should be closed in an upward-facing position. In a downward-facing position, people looking down from their second-floor windows can see through the slats easier. In a room like a bathroom or a bedroom, you don't want your neighbors to be able to see inside. 

Temperature Regulation

The climate where you live also matters when it comes to how you position your blinds. If you live in the desert or anther warmer region, keep your blinds in an upward-facing position. In this position, the heat from the sunlight will focus upward toward the ceiling, which keeps the extra heat away from the middle of the room. 

For a home in a cooler climate, turn the blinds downward so that the warmth from the sunlight will focus more toward the middle of the room to help keep the room naturally warmer. For either climate, following these tips can help you save on heating and cooling costs. 

The next time you close your blinds, keep these factors in mind to decide which position is best for you.

For more information, contact companies like Ripley's Blind & Drapery.


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