Should I Buy Windows with Built-In Blinds?

In a previous post, we explored the pros and cons of purchasing built-in blinds for windows. We learned that they require less maintenance, are safer, and are generally easier to operate compared to some traditional styles of blinds. However, they are also more costly, have limited design options, and may not be as energy-efficient as many types of replacement windows and doors currently on the market.  While they are ideal in many cases, built-in blinds might not be the solution everyone is looking for.  We’ll look specifically at three specific lifestyle situations where homeowners should consider built-in blinds for their homes.

Families with Small Children

For those families that already have young children or couples that are planning to start a family in the near future, windows with built-in blinds are worth the investment if you are already considering window or exterior door replacement or are preparing to build a new home. Built-in blinds are an important safety consideration in your home. According to a post from Verywell Family↗ , cords from blinds have been a safety hazard to children for over 70 years. The Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) lists blind cords as one of the five hidden hazards of US households. Children under the age of six are most at risk. In a study conducted between 1990 and 2015, the data shows that 16,827 injuries caused by blinds lead to trips to the emergency room. 

The most common injuries were children being struck by the blinds themselves or the cords causing lacerations or bruising. 11.9% of these incidents involved entanglement injuries, where the blinds or cords became wrapped around the child’s body, often the neck. While fatalities and injuries are relatively low, is that a chance you want to take? Built-in blinds can not only eliminate pull cords but safely encapsulate the blinds and all other moving parts between the glass panes. With the right style of built-in blinds, you might even be able to avoid hanging curtains in your baby’s bedroom or nursery avoiding the risk of any type of curtain, cord, or blinds that could cause injury.

Families with small children might want to look at Andersen Windows products. Andersen is the largest window manufacturer in North America and offers built-in blinds in a variety of styles and models. All but their E-series windows have a cordless option available. 

Families with Pets

Pets are another concern for similar reasons. While they can be injured from swinging blind cords and entanglement just like children, our four-legged friends are much more likely to cause damage to blinds and chew up cords and other parts. Puppies and cats are the most likely pets to break blinds by trying to poke their heads through the slates or tug on cords, especially if they primarily live indoors and are left alone unkenneled.  Anxious pets are known to damage blinds when trying to look out the windows while watching for their owners. This can affect the blinds alignment, break individual slats by bending or denting them, and in some cases pulling them loose. Not only does the glass protect the blinds and other parts since they are enclosed, but pets are less likely to scratch at or go to windows if the blinds are completely closed.

Families with fur babies might like ProVia internal blinds. They have an internal no-slip gear belt and the blinds are sealed in the windows and remain dust (and pet hair) free. They are also available in four different colors, although this brand requires additional lead time when ordered.  

Busy Homeowners

Let’s face it. Most of us have busy lives.  Many homeowners have full-time careers and are constantly on the go. Whether traveling, attending social functions, or working long hours, busy schedules don’t allow them the time they need to think about maintenance issues around the house as often as they need to. Traditional blinds, particularly Venetian-style blinds, are prone to collecting dust and can be time-consuming to clean. Built-in blinds require little to no maintenance.  In some cases, windows might be designed so that they can be disassembled and the blinds can be changed out or cleaned once or twice a year. In other cases, the windows may be permanently sealed making it impossible for dust and grime to get between the panes of glass. If you have a busy lifestyle and you don’t want to spend your days off dusting blinds, windows with built-in blinds may be an ideal solution. 

The Pella Designer Series might be a good match for busy homeowners that don’t have young children or pets but want to be able to change the look of their blinds periodically. The Pella Designer Series features snap-out blinds that can be changed for different colors and easy cleaning. 

 Windows with built-in blinds are not an ideal choice for everyone.  Homeowners on a budget or those looking for flexibility with design options and color choices are more likely to choose other options.  Choices maybe even more limited for those on a budget who want to prioritize energy efficiency. 

 For those homeowners interested in convenience, low maintenance,  and safety, windows with built-in blinds might be an attractive option, particularly for homes with pets and toddlers. Not only do they eliminate the dangers of injury from cords, but the blinds themselves cannot be damaged. If you’re interested in these types of blinds, it is important to look at the features, benefits, and drawbacks of each brand. If you live outside of North Texas, looking at the websites for the manufacturers above is a great starting point. If you live in DFW, you can begin discussing your options with Brennan by filling out our contact form. One of our friendly and helpful staff members will get in touch with you soon.