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How to Measure Windows for Blinds

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A Guide to Getting Window Blind Measurement Right the First Time

If you’ve decided to install new or replacement blinds or shades in your home, the first and most important step is to understand how to measure windows for blinds accurately.

Knowing how to measure for window shades, how to measure for faux-wood blinds or how to measure for plantation shutters will ensure you get the right fit the first time.

While measuring windows for blinds is not difficult, it is easy to get it wrong, which can result in ill-fitting blinds, stress and additional expense.

Read on to find out why it is important to measure accurately, how to measure for inside mount blinds, how to measure for outside mount blinds and why using a professional fitter is a good idea.

Why Accurate Window Measurement is Important

If your window measurement is inaccurate, you could find yourself wasting both time and money:

  • If the blinds are too small, there may be gaps at the sides or the bottom that will let in light and prevent complete privacy.
  • If the shades are too large, they won’t sit inside the frame neatly or operate properly.
  • Errors due to inaccurate measurements will need to be fixed at your cost.

How to Measure Windows for Blinds  

Before you grab your measuring tape, one of the most important things to consider is whether you want or need inside or outside-mounted shades. These pros and cons will help you decide:

Inside Mount 

Pros

  • These shades sit inside the window casing, resulting in a neat, tidy finish. Ideal if you have decorative window molding you don’t want to be covered.
  • A good choice if you have deep feature window sills.
  • Work well paired with drapes.

Cons

  • They stack in front of the window, which may block the view depending on the style chosen. 
  • The window casing must be at least 2 inches deep to accommodate the mounting bracket and tilting louvres.
  • May not work if the window has protruding handles or locks.
  • Won’t block as much light as an outside mount, as there needs to be a very small gap at the sides for smooth operation. However, there are some solutions to this, such as the Hunter Douglas LightLock, which is available with honeycomb-style shades.

Outside Mount

Pros

  • The shade is mounted outside the window frame, completely covering the window opening.
  • Can create the illusion of bigger windows.
  • Good for blocking light as the material extends beyond the edge of the window.

Cons

  • Requires up to 3 inches of wall space above the window on which to mount the brackets.
  • Shades are more prone to being knocked or damaged, especially in high-traffic areas.

6 Simple Steps for Measuring Windows for Shades and Other Coverings

  1. Decide if you want to measure for the inside mount or outside mount – if you’re not sure at this stage, take measurements for both.
  2. Gather a steel tape measure, paper and pencil.
  3. When measuring, always record to the nearest 1/8 inch and always record numbers as W x H.
  4. Take the required measurements (see measurement guide below for different types of blinds) – always measure twice and record once.
  5. Remember to allow extra for headrails and mounts.
  6. Measure every window – don’t assume they are the same size.

Window Measurement Techniques

Follow these measurement techniques to be sure of a good fit. If you are unsure what style of window covering you want, use the general measurement technique as a starting point.

General Window Measuring Process

These techniques should be used for horizontal blinds and shades including honeycomb and faux wood styles – or used as a general base measurement.

Measuring for Inside Mount Blinds:

  • Measure inside the window frame.
  • Width – measure the top, middle and bottom of the window. Record the narrowest width.
  • Height – measure the left, middle and right of the window. Record the longest height.

Measuring for Outside Mount Blinds:

    • Measure the area that you want the blind to cover.
    • Width – Measure across the top of the window, allowing at least 1.5 inches extra on either side of the window to prevent light leakage. 
    • Height – Measure from where the headrail will be to the sill. Allow 1.5 – 3 inches at the top for the mounting hardware.

Measuring for Roller, Solar and Roman Shades:

Inside Mount: 

  • Width – Measure at the top – it’s the most important. You will, however, still need to measure in three spots all the way down.
  • Height – Measure from the top of the window to the sill.

Outside Mount:

  • Width – Measure at the top allow at least 2 inches extra on either side for light blockage
  • Height – Measure from above the window, allowing 1.5 – 3 inches for mounting hardware to the sill or your preferred length.

Measuring for Vertical Blinds:

Inside Mount:

  • Width – Measure at the top of the window only.
  • Height – Measure at the left, centre and right – use the shortest measurement.

Outside Mount:

  • Width – Measure to the outermost width required.
  • Height – Remove a 1/2 inch from the length to allow for floor clearance.

Measuring for Plantation Shutters:

Inside Mount:

  • Start by taking diagonal measurements to check if the window is square. (If not, inside mount shutters will not be suitable).
  • Measure using the general technique for an inside mount.

Outside Mount:

  • Decide if the shutters will be mounted to the trim or the wall.
  • Measure width and height accordingly.

Tip: Don’t be tempted to adjust the width to allow ‘space’ for the shade to operate. Professional custom blind companies know how to measure blinds to fit your window accurately based on your chosen style.

Benefits of Using a Professional Window Blind Measurement and Fitting Service

As you can see, there is more to measuring windows for blinds than you may have thought. If in doubt, always get your windows measured by a professional. This is beneficial for many reasons, including:

  • Guaranteed accuracy – if they get it wrong, they will remake the blinds.
  • They account for hardware when measuring.
  • Adjustments for proper functionality are allowed.
  • They will ensure the installed product fits and works properly.
  • Most good professional window covering and installation companies provide a guarantee and warranty – making it a stress-free experience for you. Ruffell and Brown stand behind our one-year warranty on all our professional installations. 

Ruffell and Brown – Accurate and Professional Blind Fitters

At Ruffell and Brown, our team of professional fitters understands how to measure accurately, whichever type of shades you choose.  Custom window coverings from Ruffell and Brown always include window measurement and installation to ensure you get a product that looks and works right – the first time.

If you’re looking for new or replacement blinds but are unsure of your window measurements, stop into our Victoria, BC, showroom or contact us today.

Top 5 Window Coverings for Kitchens

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What to Know When Choosing Kitchen Window Treatments

Window coverings for kitchens may not be the first thing you think about when you consider your kitchen décor, but choosing the right window covering is essential for several reasons.

When considering window coverings for kitchens, you need to consider more than aesthetics – kitchen window treatments also need to be practical and durable.

Adding kitchen window blinds can provide light control and privacy and even help control kitchen temperatures. However, kitchen window coverings are exposed to high amounts of heat, humidity and grime, so you must choose a blind or shade that can stand up to these challenging conditions. 

Read on to find out what you need to consider when shopping for kitchen window blinds and our recommended kitchen window covering ideas.

Things to Consider When Choosing Kitchen Window Coverings

When considering the best window treatments for your kitchen, there is much to consider besides their appearance. So before starting to narrow down kitchen window treatment ideas, think about these factors first.

Is it easy to clean?

Kitchens can be humid, dirty and greasy places, which means whatever you cover your windows with will get damp, sticky and splashed with food debris.

Some window coverings are better suited to this type of environment than others because they are less susceptible to water damage and are easy to wipe clean – for example:

  • Faux wood (composite plastic)
  • Vinyl / PVC
  • Sheer/wipeable fabrics

Avoid natural wood or porous fabrics that can absorb moisture and stain easily – but are more challenging to clean.

Location of your kitchen window

Is your kitchen window above the sink, a food prep area or near the stovetop? If so, any window covering will be more susceptible to damage from water, humidity and grease, and you will need to choose a water-resistant window covering that is easy to clean.

Kitchen windows that are located away from these high-risk areas, such as in a dining nook, are away from the splash zone. So coverings can be chosen that have primary functions for light filtering or privacy.

Size of your kitchen

Is your kitchen a small enclosed space or larger and open to your living area? Large/open-plan kitchens are likely to have more than one window and a sliding or French door. In this type of space, it’s essential to consider whether you want continuity with window coverings throughout the room.

Smaller, fully enclosed rooms will be more susceptible to humidity build-up than open-plan spaces, so choose materials that can withstand dampness and resist mould build-up.

How much direct sunlight does your kitchen get?

A bright kitchen is lovely to work in, but if there is a lot of natural sunlight from the windows, consider blinds or shades with UV protection. Because UV rays can damage and fade hardwood flooring and fabrics, window coverings such as Pirouette sheer shades that block UV rays but still allow in natural light are a great option. However, ensure these shades are not installed above a sink, as they are a bit more challenging to clean. 

Is privacy needed?

Can your neighbours see you making your morning cup of coffee? Then you need a kitchen window blind that will increase privacy. Fabrics with varying opacity levels are available depending on whether you want to retain some natural light and visibility. 

Need a covering you can control when privacy is needed? Choose a blind or shutter with a tilt wand or smart control.

Décor preference 

Practicality is essential, but kitchen window treatments offer the opportunity to add personality to a room that is often neglected. Adding colour or pattern can brighten an all-white kitchen and soften the hard lines and surfaces of stainless steel and stone.

Consider whether you want your kitchen window covering to be subtle or bold, permanent or changeable. For example, a roller blind will roll almost entirely away into its header bar for a clean and unobstructed look, whereas a roman blind will lift into a decorative valance. Some sheer shades will remain permanently closed as they offer partial visibility.

The 5 Best Window Covering Options for Kitchens:

Now that we know what factors to consider when buying window coverings for kitchens, what are some of the best options to choose from?

  1. Faux Wood Blinds – Hunter Douglas Everwood alternative wood blinds are an excellent choice for kitchens because they are resistant to heat and dampness and can easily be wiped clean. They offer a clean and simple look that will compliment any style of kitchen. In addition, they can be easily adjusted to light and privacy by tilting the slats.
  2. Vinyl shutters – These window coverings are another option for a timeless look that is durable and easy to maintain. Ensure there is room to open the shutter doors if placed behind a sink or faucet.
  3. Roller Blinds – A simple, modern option suitable for all kitchens. They work well on smaller windows or where a complete view is required as they roll away neatly. Roller blinds are available in a wide range of fabric options, from room darkening to light filtering sheers for subtle light control and privacy. Choosing roller blinds offers the chance to add fun, colour, texture or pattern to your kitchen. Most roller blind fabrics are easy to spot-clean too.
  4. Roman Blinds – Offer a more decorative look for your kitchen. They are easy to operate and come in various colours and designs. While Roman blinds are vulnerable to stains, they can be adjusted to a preferred height to avoid potential splashes. 
  5. Cellular Shades – Honeycomb style shades, such as Duette cellular shades by Hunter Douglas, are ideal for heat and light control. These shades are best suited for larger windows away from direct heat, grime and water, as they are harder to clean. 

Thanks to their insulating design, cellular shades can help keep a hot kitchen cooler in the summer months. 

Perfect Kitchen Window Coverings from Ruffell and Brown

When you are ready to choose the best window treatment for your kitchen, speak with the experts at Ruffell and Brown. 

Our team can help you decide which type and style of blinds are the most suitable for your kitchen.Visit our showroom in Victoria, BC, where you will find some window covering inspiration for every room in your home or contact us today for more information.

Big Windows? No Problem! Best Blinds for Large Windows

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Best Modern Window Coverings for Large Windows

Big windows are a beautiful addition to any home – letting in natural light, warmth and expansive views, but when it comes to covering them, which are the best blinds for large windows?

Large expanses of glass can add a stunning appearance to the architecture of any home as they create an open and bright look and feel. But all that glass comes with a challenge too. What if you want to control the light or have some privacy? Off-the-shelf blinds won’t work for large windows, so a custom solution is required.

To help you choose the right big window blinds for your home, follow this guide to the best modern window coverings for large windows.

What to Consider When Choosing Window Coverings for Large Windows

Despite all the positives of large windows, they bring some downsides too, such as:

  • UV damage: With glass comes sunlight. While natural sunlight is good for us, it can be damaging to your home. UV rays can damage and fade furniture and flooring over time. A window covering will help prevent glare and damage.
  • Heat transfer: Glass doesn’t insulate, so large expanses can let in heat during warm weather and lose it in the winter. Blinds can help reduce this heat transfer and, as a result, save energy used on heating and cooling. 
  • Privacy: While having an unobstructed view of the outside is desirable, it also means anyone outside can see into your home. Installing window coverings will enable you to retain the view when you want it but add a layer of privacy when it’s required – especially at night.

When choosing window coverings for your large windows, consider:

  • Weight – Large blinds can be very heavy. Choose lightweight materials or multiple smaller blinds to overcome this issue.
  • Operating Systems – Floor-to-ceiling or double-height window coverings are going to be out of reach for most people. If you have a particularly high or long window to cover, consider using a motorized operating system, which can be controlled from either a remote control or your smart automation system.
  • Is the ability to adjust important? Do you want permanent coverage or do you want to be able to adjust the view and light filtration on your window covering? Consider a Duolite shade that can give you both light filtration and the ability to block harsh UV by combining two shades in one treatment.

Best Blinds for Large Windows

There are many options for window coverings that work well on large windows, including:

Cellular Blinds

Honeycomb-style cellular blinds are extremely lightweight and have superior insulation, making them ideal for large expanses of glass. Available in widths up to 12 feet, they have a small stack that minimalizes their appearance when open.

Vertical Blinds

While vertical blinds are most suitable for sliding glass patio doors, they are also very effective on floor-to-ceiling windows and can work on the widest expanses of glass. The ability to tilt the vertical vanes gives great control over light without having to fully open the blind.

Vertical blinds are not just for the office – softer styles like the Luminette privacy sheer from Hunter Douglas have the look of soft drapery when closed, which brings a warm style to any room.

Sliding Panels

Fabric panels, such as the Hunter Douglas Skyline Gliding Window Panels, slide on tracks so their position can be changed as desired. Available in a vast range of fabric choices and opacities, they offer a decorative solution for floor-to-ceiling windows or patio doors.

Roller Shades

The cleanest look for a large window. Roller blinds have a simple profile and roll up neatly when open, complimenting minimalist décor. Light enough to be used across a wide window, or consider 2 or 3 side by side to allow more selective light control.

Roman Blinds

The soft folds of roman blinds give a graceful finish to oversize windows. Available in wide widths, they can be used in different ways:

  • One large blind across a row of 2 or more tall, slim windows.
  • Multiple smaller blinds across one large window – if you choose this option, go with a solid colour or a simple pattern that can be lined up.

Shutters

If you want your oversize windows to be the statement centrepiece of your room, consider adding shutters. They create a classic frame around the windows and can break up a very large expanse of glass.

Shutters minimize heat transfer which is ideal in extreme weather locations. As well as traditional door style opening, shutters can be fitted on tracks so they can be stacked to the side when you want an open view.

Wooden options

While faux wood horizontal blinds are an option for taller windows, they are too heavy for wide windows. If you particularly like the look of wooden blinds, consider real wood, which is considerably lighter, eliminating the risk of sagging or mechanism damage.

Tip: When your window is too wide for a single blind, consider multiple smaller units attached to one headrail. While each can be operated independently, the overall look is cohesive and classy.

See this piece by houzz.com for more ways to dress wide windows.

Curtains and Drapes for Large Windows

Curtains and drapes offer another option for large windows, whether used alone or in combination with shades or blinds.

Using drapes offers a decorative finish, which can add warmth to a room or complement a more traditional style of décor. Ways to use drapes on large windows include:

  • Use narrow curtains on either end of a row of windows, like bookends.
  • For full-room-width windows, use one continuous length of drapery for a consistent and contemporary finish.
  • Layering drapes with different opacities gives optimum light control – pair a sheer drape with a heavy curtain for a classic look.
  • Use light or sheer fabrics for filtered light with full privacy.
  • For lower energy bills, layer drapes over energy-efficient blinds.

See this article by homesandgardens.com for more large window curtain ideas and inspiration.

Go Custom for the Best Large Window Coverings

For the best results, choose custom-made for your large windows coverings. Victoria, BC is the home to Ruffell and Brown, specialists in coverings for all your windows, including oversized ones. 

Our expert staff can offer advice on which blinds will work on your large windows and ensure the measurement and fitting are completed accurately.

Contact us today to arrange a measurement and consultation for your big windows.

Sheer Brilliance: Window Sheers That Will Light Up Your Home

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Why You Should Consider Sheer Curtains

Consider sheer shades or sheer draperies if you’re looking for a window covering that is timeless, fresh and bright. 

Sheers are window coverings made from light, fine, semi-translucent fabric that diffuses harsh sunlight yet still allows a view of the outside.

Sheer drapes come in a range of natural and neutral colours that bring a sleek, contemporary and appealing look to any room. Modern window sheers are versatile and protect your furniture and floors from UV rays and daytime privacy. Some sheer shade options can even retain the majority of privacy when it’s dark outside.

Read on to explore sheer window covering options and learn why they are a good choice for your home.

Types of Window Sheers

Now, sheers are available as draperies, shades and blinds and each style offers all the benefits of sheer window coverings.

Sheer Draperies

Panels of thin, polyester material in various colours which are used to dress a window, sheer draperies are often used more for aesthetics than function. They can be used alone or combined with secondary treatments or heavier drapes for a dimensional layered look.

Sheer draperies can be made as stationary panels for softness and dimension, or as full closing to allow for ambient light and daytime privacy/UV control, creating a light and airy look. 

Sheer curtains can also be used elsewhere around the house – these 6 practical and beautiful ways to use sheer draperies around your home will offer some inspiration.

Sheer Shades

Sheer shades are the perfect blend of the versatility of a blind, with the elegance of a drapery. Tilting fabric vanes are backed by, or suspended between, sheets of sheer material. What results is the ultimate answer to a desire for privacy while still enjoying some natural light.

The vanes work similarly to regular blinds in that they can be tilted open to allow a complete view through or fully closed for optimum privacy and light control. The difference with sheer shades is that no matter how open the vanes are, there are always one or two layers of sheer fabric that soften the light and prevent anyone outside from seeing in.

Options for sheer shades include:

  • Pirouette from Hunter Douglas – Soft fabric vanes are attached to a single sheer backing layer, giving the appearance of a Roman shade but with the additional softening and light filtering from the backing that can open like a blind.
  • Silhouette from Hunter Douglas – Unique S-shaped vanes are suspended between two sheets of sheer material resulting in a very soft and subtle look that gives the impression of folds in drapery. Available as horizontal or vertical shades.
  • Designer Banded from Hunter Douglas – Sheer and solid fabrics are layered, giving a  beautifully modern look while offering privacy and light control. Can be opened or closed like a roller blind. 

Sheer Blinds

Your window coverings expert can give more advice on which styles of blinds can best support sheer fabric.

One style of sheer blind that is a cross between a sheer panel and a vertical blind is the Luminette privacy sheer from Hunter Douglas. Internal fabric vanes and sheer backing material filter sunlight and the vertical style is perfect for doors and full-height windows.

The Benefits of Choosing Window Sheers

Whichever style of window sheer you prefer, they all offer the same advantages and bring together some very beneficial reasons why you should use them.

UV protection

Continued exposure to the sun’s ultraviolet rays can cause damage such as fading and warping of flooring or furniture. This article by Seasons in Colour explains in more detail why the sun is bad for your home interiors.

Clear window glass can let in as much as 70% of the sun’s UV rays, so any furniture or flooring in the vicinity of uncovered windows is vulnerable to damage. Simply adding sheer window coverings can filter up to 88% of UV rays and when sheer shades like Silhouette and Luminette are in a fully closed position they can block up to 99% of the damaging rays.

Privacy

If your home can be seen by neighbours or is located on a public walkway or road, you may want privacy but still wish to retain some natural sunlight. When seen from the outside, sheer coverings create an opaque effect that diffuses daytime view into the home. After dark, the vanes on sheer shades offer complete privacy when fully closed.

Light control 

While UV protection is important, there are health benefits of sunlight exposure, such as an increase in serotonin that can improve mood and mental health.

Because luminous sheers allow gently filtered sunlight into your home at a level you can control, you can still feel all the benefits of natural light without the damage risks.

Of course, if you do want to block out the light, simply close the vanes partially or fully for significant room darkening.

Beautiful style choices for every room

Whichever style of window sheer you prefer, they all offer a delicate and appealing alternative to other window coverings. Suitable for use in all rooms of the home, they are available in a range of neutral colours that will complement any style.

Easy to operate

Thanks to their lightweight fabrics, sheer shades can benefit from cordless operating systems that don’t impact the finished look. The shades can be controlled with static or travelling wands, or smart automation can be utilized for operation and programming at the touch of a button.

Sheer Drapes and Shades to Light up Your Home from Ruffell and Brown

If you’re looking for sheer treatments for your home, look no further than Ruffell and Brown Window Coverings in Victoria, BC.

Proud suppliers and fitters of Hunter Douglas products, Ruffell & Brown can help you find the perfect custom window sheers for your home and needs. Pop into our showroom on Bridge Street or contact us today for more information.

 

Shutters – Looking Good Inside and Out

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Enhancing Your Home’s Curb Appeal with Interior Shutters

Window shutters are one of the most traditional ways to enhance the first impression that your home makes to the world. Whether your personal style is more farmhouse fabulous, Caribbean cool, or somewhere in between, shutters create a sophisticated and cohesive look.

What are Shutters?

Not to be confused with exterior shutters, which are now primarily used for décor, interior window shutters add style, value and extra security to your home. A rigid window covering in a framework, they’re constructed of horizontal louvres that can open and close to allow air and light in, or block it out. Made of a variety of materials ranging from solid wood to a hybrid of materials, they’re a charming addition to any home décor theme. Available in a variety of long-lasting materials, finishes and stylish colours, we offer innovative window covering designs and automated options to simplify your life and add polish to your home.

The Many Benefits of Shutters

  • Adds a higher class, timeless look to your home
  • Adds a soft, filtered light to the room for a tranquil feel
  • Ideal for allergy sufferers, thanks to easy care, wipe-clean materials
  • Ideal for UV control, filters light more effectively than other window treatments
  • Provides a higher level of privacy with louvred slats
  • Energy efficient and provide an extra layer of insulation against heat and cold
  • Adds to your home’s value and are considered permanent fixtures
  • Adds style and substance to hard-to-dress smaller and specialty shaped windows
  • Always cordless, making them safe and universally easy to use
  • Our Shutters are designed with your choice of durable materials and operating systems

Creating Curb Appeal with Shutters

The small details go a long way towards making your home look its most attractive. When you match your windows and the exterior of your home with custom shutters from Ruffell and Brown, you create an upscale, uniform look. Shutters also work particularly well on specialty shaped windows like arched and angled designs.

No matter which material and style you choose, our line of shutters can greatly enhance your home’s curb appeal. Some top ways to use shutters as eye-catching décor:

  • Choose neutral or white shutters for a traditional, uniform look
  • Choose colourful colours to add interesting contrast to the exterior to add a modern edge
  • Want more variety inside your home? Pair shutters with curtains and valances in coordinating colours to match your interior décor while maintaining one set look on the outside
  • Choose matching shutters in every street facing window for the most uniform and appealing look
  • Choose shutters for smaller windows that may otherwise appear mismatched. Arched windows with a set of custom shutters look gorgeous and flow naturally with other windows dressed with shutters
  • Coordinate your shutters to perfectly match existing paint or stain colours

Choose from a Large Selection of Styles and Materials

Wood Shutters Hunter Douglas Wood Shutters

Our wood shutters create a natural, handcrafted look that coordinates beautifully with wood furniture. Ideal for homes with wooden exteriors and classic architecture, our wood shutters create a warm and luxurious look.

Palm Beach Polysatin Shutters

Made of UV resistant polysatin compound, Palm Beach polysatin shutters are guaranteed against wear and tear like chipping, warping, or discolouring. The DuraLux finish looks just like paint but is scratch, dent and fade resistant, so it never needs refinishing. This is a great choice for high traffic areas like kitchens and mudrooms.

Vinyl Shutters

Durable and resistant to the elements, our vinyl shutters offer many advantages since they’re as beautiful as they are practical. Available in an array of colours and shades, they easily enhance both the interior and exterior of your home.

NewStyle Hybrid Shutters

Crafted with a blend of real wood using dovetail construction and finished with Finetech Finish coating for durability and easy care. NewStyle Hybrid shutters will stand up to any climate and are ideal for any room in the home.

Additional Customization Options

From the standard front tilt bar to motorized operation, your new shutters will be customized to meet your exact needs and specifications.

Motorized

Set the times to have your shutters open and close for a hands-off way to control UV exposure and privacy. With voice control, an app for your smartphone or tablet, smart-home system integration options, or the included remote control, you can move the louvres according to your schedule. Program your shutters to open and close while you’re away from home to give the appearance of the house being occupied, to close every night at bedtime and open at first light, and more. Great for shift workers and those who work during the night, motorized shutters help optimize your light control with zero fuss.

Bi-Fold Track

Ideal for picture windows or sliding glass doors, the Bi-Fold Track system shutter panels are connected to a top track and hinged together. The smooth folding movements of the bi-fold track allow them to be easily opened wide to showcase your views.

Bi-Pass Track

Bi-Pass track shutters are ideal for patio doors since the panels slide past each other and open in the same direction of the door for easy access. Bi-pass track shutters also maximize the views by allowing the louvres to be open while sliding or stacking the panels.

Hinged Panels

Attached to a frame or window opening using a hinge, this style of shutter is versatile and allows for more fresh air to flow into your home. With a classic plantation shutter appearance, these can be used for any window size, including wider than average windows using extra vertical posts and panels.

Hidden Tilt

The hidden tilt system is designed with a one-touch gear system concealed inside the panel. Available on select shutters, there is no tilt bar needed for a sleek look and unobstructed views.

Rear Tilt

Similar to Hidden Tilt, the Rear Tilt system creates a discreet look and minimalist design. Tilt one louvre to the position you’d like and the rest of the louvres will tilt with it. The Rear Tilt system is available with all our shutters.

Front Tilt

The traditional front tilt design has a single bar attached to the front of the shutters for ease of use. Standard on all of our products, this is a tried and true system with a classic look.

Love the look of shutters, but aren’t sure which size louvre or which colours, materials and operating systems are right for your home? Trying to decide between wood and vinyl? Our knowledgeable team of designers will work with you to select and design custom shutters that will blend in perfectly with your home’s aesthetic. We’ve been experts in window covering design and installation since 1987.  Call or email Ruffell and Brown to schedule a consultation or visit our world-class showroom today.

Energy Efficient Window Coverings

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Energy Saving, Modern Window Blinds and Coverings

Heat Pumps, smart thermostats, awnings and patio covers all go a long way towards improving the energy efficiency of your home.  But did you know that the right window treatments are just as beneficial for reducing excess energy consumption?

Up to 25% of a home’s heat is lost through uncovered windows, and 40% of heat enters through the windows. With the right window coverings, you can easily retain cool or warm air, cut down on the use of heaters and air conditioning and reduce overall energy consumption. Investing in custom window treatments for your home will go a long way towards your comfort and long-term energy savings.

Whether you’re looking to beat the summer heat or keep your chilly office space warm in the winter, there are a wide array of custom, versatile window coverings suitable for every room in your home, from blackout shades in the baby’s room to sheer drapes in the dining room.

Though dramatically different in how they frame your windows and add style to your home, the variety of window coverings from Ruffell and Brown all greatly help with climate control while adding a touch of luxury that can only come with the world’s best-selling window fashions.

What are the Best Energy Efficient Window Treatments?

Our wide variety of blinds, draperies, shades and shutters are custom designed to suit any space in your home while reducing energy output and your home’s carbon footprint.

Cellular Honeycomb Shades

The innovative honeycomb design of these shades traps air for maximum energy efficiency. Available in single or double honeycomb design, choose from a wide selection of colours, patterns and fabrics ranging from sheer to blackout. Cellular shades blend into your home’s design beautifully while working hard to maintain a comfortable temperature.

Venetian Blinds

energy efficient blinds - metal venetian blinds

Metal/Aluminum Venetian Blinds

Metal venetian blinds continue to be a standby for homeowners looking to add light and temperature control to their homes. However, the newer products are nothing like the older, corded styles offered primarily in white and beige. Todays metal blinds are sophisticated and designed in an array of dimensions, slat sizes and colours. Cordless and offered in everything from matte to pearlescent shades, metal venetian blinds are timeless and durable.

Wood Venetian Blinds

Adding a warm look to any home while complementing wood furniture, wood venetian blinds insulate even better than aluminum blinds since they do not transmit heat at all. Made of the highest quality wood with slats that close tightly to block out heat and sunlight, these blinds are light, durable and can even be made with cloth tapes customized to match the room’s décor.

Faux Wood Venetian Blinds

Our faux wood blinds are low maintenance and can withstand exposure to bright sunlight and moisture, without fading or warping. Available in wood stain colours or a wide selection of painted finishes, faux wood blinds are ideal for bathrooms and other heavily lit windows, such as those in sunrooms.

Top-Down Bottom-Up Shades

Truly versatile, top-down bottom-up shades add a softer look to your windows while making it easy to filter or block sunlight from any angle. With a variety of woven and non-woven fabric options, colours, patterns and backings, pleated top-down bottom-up shades let you completely customize privacy and light exposure. For optimum energy efficiency and insulation, we recommend our metallized fabrics, or white sheers to block solar heat.

Skylift Skylight System

A major source of natural light in the home, skylights can sometimes let in too much heat. Combat this problem with custom Duette and Applause shades made for larger, hard-to-reach windows in your home and sunroom. Integrated with motorization, you can easily filter harsh sunlight in the summer and retain heat in the winter.

Draperies

energy efficient window treatments - draperies Draperies help to insulate against heat and cold equally. When layered with blinds, shades or sheers, they can also create a customized solution for maximizing energy efficiency and privacy any time of year. Simply open your drapes to let warmth and sunlight in during the summer or close them to retain heat during the winter. Draperies add softness and style to any room and at Ruffell and Brown, we offer the widest range of drapery products in Western Canada.

Shutters

A versatile insulator, shutters are a conversation piece and add an international flair to any space. Made to measure for any window or door, our shutters are custom made from top quality materials including wood, faux wood, composite and vinyl. They can even be customized in an exact shade of paint or stain to match flooring or any other aspect of your home’s décor.

Motorized Window Treatments

The majority of our window treatments can be motorized and integrated with any home automation system, putting you in total control of when and how your window coverings adjust. Whether by the time of day, the angle of the sun, or to bolster security by using a smartphone app while you’re away from home, automated blinds, draperies, shades and shutters make it that much easier to increase energy efficiency. Raise, lower and tilt blinds and shades at the touch of a button.

Beyond Window Coverings

To ensure your windows and window coverings are at peak efficiency, it’s important to check and regularly maintain the seals around windows to guard against leaks and drafts. Properly sealed window frames will prevent hot and cold air from entering and escaping. You’ll also want to check any heating and cooling or forced air ducts throughout the home and seal where needed to prevent warm/cold air loss.

 

No matter your energy-saving needs, our designers can help create the perfect custom window treatments for you. Our collection of top brands and thousands of fabrics, textures and colours will add polish and valuable energy savings to your home. For windows that are designed to do so much more than simply cover your windows, visit our showroom in Victoria, BC, or contact us for a free shop-at-home appointment.