Covering wide windows presents unique challenges, from finding the right size to balancing light control with privacy. Our comprehensive guide examines the best options for wide window blinds, addressing everything from proper measurement techniques to ideal materials.
We’ll explore top-performing solutions like vertical blinds, roller shades, and cellular treatments that specifically address the needs of large window blinds.
You’ll learn how motorization makes operating blinds for big windows living room areas more convenient, and why certain materials work better for spanning wide distances without sagging. Whether you need custom blinds for unusually sized openings or are seeking energy-efficient options that work on expansive glass areas, we’ve got you covered with practical advice for choosing modern window coverings for large windows.
Wide windows make a dramatic statement in any home, bringing in gorgeous natural light and creating a sense of spaciousness. But as beautiful as they are, wide window blinds present unique challenges – from finding the right size to managing light control and privacy.
How to Choose the Best Blinds for Wide Windows
Wide windows make a dramatic statement in any home, offering expansive views and flooding rooms with natural light. But when it comes to covering these architectural features, finding the right blinds can be challenging. Large windows require specially designed window treatments that balance functionality with style while addressing unique challenges like weight, span, and operation.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore everything you need to know about selecting the perfect blinds for your wide windows, from measuring correctly to choosing the ideal style for your space.
Understanding the Challenges of Wide Windows
Before diving into specific blind options, it’s important to understand what makes wide windows uniquely challenging to cover:
Size and Weight Considerations: Wide window treatments can be heavy, putting significant pressure on lifting mechanisms and mounting hardware.
Light Control: Large windows let in abundant natural light, which is desirable until it creates glare or excessive heat.
Privacy Needs: Big windows create stunning views both in and out. Quality blinds should offer privacy when needed.
Operation Challenges: The wider the blind, the more challenging it can be to operate smoothly and evenly.
Best Types of Blinds for Wide Windows
Vertical Blinds
Vertical blinds are the classic solution for wide windows and sliding doors:
- Maximum Width Coverage: Can span impressive widths (up to 188” inches)
- Adjustable Light Control: Slats can be tilted to manage incoming light
- Easy Operation: Sliding mechanism moves smoothly even across wide spans
- Ideal For: Sliding doors, floor-to-ceiling windows, and extra-wide openings
Roller Shades
For a sleek, contemporary look on wide windows, roller shades offer impressive coverage:
- Wide Span Capability: Quality roller shades can cover windows up to 144 inches wide
- Clean, Minimalist Design: Simple fabric-on-roller construction creates a neat appearance
- Material Variety: Available in light-filtering and blackout options
The Blindsgalore Envision Blackout Roller Shades block almost all incoming light, making them ideal for media rooms, bedrooms, and nurseries. They’re available in widths from 12″ to 110″ and heights from 12″ to 120″.
Cellular (Honeycomb) Shades
Cellular shades combine energy efficiency with wide coverage capabilities:
- Impressive Width Range: Can span up to 192 inches in width
- Superior Insulation: The honeycomb design creates air pockets that provide thermal insulation
- Light Management: Diffuses harsh sunlight
Our Blindsgalore Select Motorized Wand Cellular Shades offer both light filtering and blackout options with motorization. They improve energy efficiency by creating a pocket of “dead air” between the window and room for an insulating effect. Available in widths from 24″ to 96″ and heights from 12″ to 96″.
Custom Drapery
When coverage and elegance are priorities, custom drapery offers versatility:
- Exceptional Width Coverage: Can span up to 192 inches wide
- Fabric Versatility: Available in various options
- Rich, Elegant Appearance: Creates a luxurious look perfect for formal living spaces
Panel Track (Sliding Panel) Blinds
For the widest windows, panel track blinds offer a modern solution:
- Maximum Coverage: Can span up to 192 inches with a spliced headrail
- Contemporary Look: Large fabric panels create a sleek, modern aesthetic
- Easy Operation: Panels slide horizontally on a track
- Perfect For: Sliding glass doors, wide patio doors, and room dividers
Shutters for Wide Windows
For a timeless look with excellent light control:
- Remarkable Width Potential: Some shutters can span up to 295 inches wide
- Classic Appeal: Traditional styling that complements various decor
- Durability: Long-lasting window treatment option
How to Measure for Blinds for Wide Windows
Accurate measurements are crucial for wide windows, where even small errors get magnified across the span:
Inside Mount vs. Outside Mount
Before measuring, determine whether you want:
Inside Mount: Blinds that fit within the window frame
- Creates a clean, built-in look
- Takes up less wall space
Outside Mount: Blinds that mount outside the window frame
- Blocks more light
- Makes windows appear larger
How to Measure for Inside Mount Blinds
For inside mount on wide windows:
- Measure the window width at three points: top, middle, and bottom
- Record the narrowest measurement
- Measure the height at the left, middle, and right sides
- Record the longest measurement
- Measure the depth of the window frame to ensure adequate mounting space
Do not make deductions yourself. The manufacturer will automatically make necessary deductions to ensure proper fit.
How to Measure for Outside Mount Blinds
For outside mount on wide windows:
- Measure the width of the area you want to cover
- Add at least 3-4 inches to the total width (1.5-2 inches per side) for optimal light control
- Measure the height of the area to be covered
- Add 3-4 inches to the height for optimal coverage
- Ensure you have at least 2 inches of flat surface above the window for mounting brackets
Operation Options for Wide Blinds
The operation mechanism becomes increasingly important as window size increases:
Motorization
Recommended for very wide or tall blinds, motorized options like our Blindsgalore Select Motorized Wand Cellular Shades offer convenient operation via wand control.
- The wand comes equipped with a rechargeable battery
- Available in 12″ increments, up to 60″
- Can be positioned on either the left or right side of the shade
Cordless Operation
Provides a cleaner look and enhanced safety for homes with children and pets.
Continuous Cord Loop
Offers easier operation for larger, heavier blinds compared to traditional cords.
Product Recommendations for Wide Windows
For Maximum Light Control: Blindsgalore Envision Blackout Roller Shades
Our Blindsgalore Envision Blackout Roller Shades offer exceptional room-darkening capabilities with sleek styling. Available in 45 designer colors, these shades:
- Block almost all incoming light for maximum privacy
- Feature a fabric-wrapped Hembar for a finished look
- Include multiple control options
- Can span widths from 12″ to 110″ and heights from 12″ to 120″
For Energy Efficiency: Blindsgalore Select Motorized Wand Cellular Shades
Our Blindsgalore Select Motorized Wand Cellular Shades combine energy efficiency with convenient operation:
- Available in light-filtering fabric that protects interiors from harmful UV rays
- Blackout fabric option blocks 99% of incoming light
- Cellular construction provides excellent insulation for energy efficiency
- Motorized wand operation offers safety
- Available in 26 designer colors with coordinated hardware
- Width ranges from 24″ to 96″ with heights from 12″ to 96″
For Versatile Light Control: Boutique Serenity Light Filtering Dual Sheer Shades
The Boutique Serenity Light Filtering Dual Sheer Shades provide excellent versatility:
- Alternating sheer and solid fabric vanes allow variable light control
- Available in widths from 16″ to 110″ and heights from 20″ to 108″
- Provide a combination of transparency and light-filtering fabric
FAQs
What blinds look best on wide windows?
The most attractive blinds for wide windows depend on your interior style and functional needs. Vertical blinds offer classic functionality for the widest spans, while roller or cellular shades provide a cleaner, more contemporary look. For elegant spaces, custom drapery creates a sophisticated impression.
What type of blind is best for a large window?
For large windows, vertical blinds, panel track blinds, and custom-sized roller shades typically offer the best combination of functionality and appearance. Vertical blinds can span widths up to 189 inches, while panel track systems can extend even further-up to 332 inches with spliced headrails. For energy efficiency, cellular shades provide excellent insulation while spanning up to 192 inches wide.
What to do if the window is too wide for blinds?
When windows exceed standard manufacturing limitations, consider these solutions:
1) Install multiple blinds side by side,
2) Use panel track systems designed for extra-wide spans,
3) Opt for custom drapery that can be made to virtually any width,
4) Consider shutters with special wide-span capabilities, or
5) Combine different window treatments.
How do you figure out what size blinds you need?
To determine the correct blind size, first decide between inside or outside mounting. For inside mounts, measure the window opening’s width at three points and use the narrowest measurement.
For outside mounts, measure the desired coverage area and add 3-4 inches to both width and height for optimal light blocking. Always measure to the nearest 1/8 inch and specify width first, then height when ordering.
Get Yourself the Best Blinds for Wide Windows Today
Choosing the right blinds for wide windows requires careful consideration of both practical and aesthetic factors. By understanding your specific needs for light control, privacy, and style-and by taking accurate measurements-you can select window treatments that enhance your space while providing the functionality you need.
Whether you opt for the classic versatility of vertical blinds, the sleek modernity of roller shades, or the energy efficiency of cellular shades, Blindsgalore offers custom solutions designed to perfectly fit your wide windows.