Choices for Eco-Friendly blinds and shades

When I was at the HomeStars “Meet the Contractors” event a few weeks ago I had the pleasure of speaking with Ana Pilling from 4Blinds Inc. We began talking about new “eco-friendly” window coverings products and the increasing selection that’s available. In fact, it can be a bit overwhelming so choosing a product depends on your needs (ie.: decor, privacy, insulation…). I asked Ana if could write an article on the subject and she was kind enough to agree. Thank you Ana for your contribution to our blog.

SHADES OF GREEN

By Ana Pilling (co-owner of 4Blinds Inc.)

Making environmentally-conscious improvements to your home? Then don’t forget to include the products people will see from the street - your window coverings.

From earth-grown designer bamboo shades to the more energy-efficient air pockets of honeycombs, the choices are environmentally conscious and stylish too!

Today’s custom roman shades made from bamboo, grasses and reeds are a winning combination of environmental consciousness and good looks. Natural materials such as bamboo have been strongly regaining popularity over the last year due to their sustainability and sense of natural warmth. Decorative banding, the top down/bottom up feature, easy-raising clutches and motorization upgrades all make the current woven wood collection quite irresistible.

For modern and minimalistic interiors featuring sleek lines, a quality custom roller shade is a great choice.  Industry-leading roller shade manufacturers are now offering fabrics certified and approved for application in LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) certified buildings.  These products will not off-gas while providing thermal performance and visual comfort.

Lastly, if energy-efficiency is at the top of your priority list, consider the modern honeycomb shade.  A long way from their humble beginnings back in the ‘80’s, they are now one of the most popular choices for large expanses of glass, bedrooms, children’s rooms, and hard-to-reach windows.  Honeycomb shades not only provide a stylish barrier to the elements, the air pockets within the shade’s structure work to increase your windows R value and lower your heating and air conditioning costs.

So whether you choose from the new bamboo collection, the LEED friendly rollers or the energy-efficient honeycomb shade, making a responsible choice for your home and the environment is also in style.

Ana Pilling is a window treatment expert and has lived, shopped and worked in the Beach since 2001.  For a free consultation please call 416.916.0224.

4Blinds will be opening a retail store in the Beach in March, 2009.

www.4blinds.ca

Posted by CathyR