In order to transform this couple’s bedroom, HGTV focused on:

• Changing out the dull brown wall color with luxurious lavender
• Custom-made composite shutters from Budget Blinds
• Updating solid white furniture to mix-and-match pieces
• Exchanging the old -style white fan for an artistic light fixture
• Adding texture to the floor with a lighter, patterned carpet
• Adding color to their bedding with purple, gray and yellow geometric patterns

A Modern Look with Composite Shutters

A major focal point for the bedroom was their 9-foot x 8-foot window and center arch, covered with “janky DIY shutters” that need a major makeover. “The shutters were here when we bought the house, and we didn’t realize until we moved in that they didn’t close properly,” said Marcus Edwards. The previous shutters were not hinged correctly making them unable to open or close all the way. Also, the arch was covered with a fan shade, making the overall look of the shutters incohesive. HGTV knew this window treatment was a major task and reached out to Budget Blinds, who sent local franchise owner, Jamie Brusse, of Budget Blinds serving Crofton, to provide his design expertise, precise measuring and professional installation services for the Edwards’ home in Baltimore.

To create a clean, relaxing and functional environment, Budget Blinds’ selected white composite shutters from their exclusive Enlightened Style™, product line for the large arched bedroom window. They were measured and custom designed to fit all sections of the window creating a seamless design incorporating the center arch. Composite shutters are prefect to be tailor-made to fit any shape or size window. These custom shutters were hinged to open and close for proper privacy and light control, with a large louver size which allows for the more modern look the Edwards family desired.

Composite Shutters Benefits

Enlightened Style composite shutters create a beautiful look and are great for uniquely shaped windows, but they also offer you more than that:

• They are highly durable, as their synthetic materials stand up to high-moisture climates
• They are a low-maintenance window covering that resists cracking and fading and are easy to clean with dry feather duster or soft cloth
• They block the sun’s harmful UV rays to help lower your energy bills and protect your furniture and floors from fading
• They are designed without cords making shutters pet friendly and child safe window treatments

Let Budget Blinds help transform your bedroom into the perfect oasis, just as they helped the experts at HGTV!  Budget Blinds offers beautiful shutters as well as a variety of other Enlightened Style window treatments including blinds, shades, custom drapes and more.  If you’re ready for a window makeover like the Edwards family, call 651-351-7620  today to schedule a FREE, in-home consultation or visit us online at budgetblinds.com

Budget Blinds offers unlimited design potential with a large variety of window coverings to choose from for your next window treatments. Here are 12 beautiful window treatment ideas that can update and refresh your entire home.

1. Distressed Wood Blinds

Distressed wood blinds feature a customized finish that adds texture and character to your home and they come in a variety of colors to complement your room’s décor. Colored cloth tape can be added for a more refined look to your blinds. Wood blinds are not only a stunning window treatment but are an eco-friendly option that brings a natural element into your home. Distressed wood blinds are a unique window treatment for any room.

2. Butterfly Blinds

The innovative Butterfly Blind offered to you exclusively from Budget Blinds is the best of both worlds. Butterfly blinds are like two shades in one; when closed they resemble a pleated shade, when opened, they function as a blind. They offer three basic settings to adjust your light and views: open for a clear view, half open for filtered light, and closed for complete privacy. Butterfly Blinds come in an extensive range of fabrics and colors to complement the rest of your interior.

3. Woven Wood Shades

Budget Blinds Inspired Shades Collection features a line of natural woven wood shades in a wide selection of colors and renewable resources like bamboo, jute, hemp and flax. They are handcrafted window coverings that add natural beauty to your home. Woven wood shades are an eco-friendly window treatment, made from organic materials and completely recyclable. If you are looking for a greener option for your next window coverings, the woven wood shade is the perfect solution.

4. Roller Shades

Roller shades bold patterns and geometric patterns are the perfect for adding a dramatic design element to your home. Budget Blinds’ exclusive Inspired Shades Collection offers a range of opacity levels which include sheer, light-filtering, room-darkening and blackout which allow you to control the light.  Also, custom roller shades provide year round UV protection from the sun and insulation from heat or cold.

5. Custom Drapery

Budget Blinds offers an exclusive drapery collection that combines fashionable designs with quality craftsmanship. Drapery can stand alone as a window treatment or be layered with window coverings like blinds or shades. Drapery adds additional privacy as well as establishing a decorative theme from room to room in your home. Create a focal point in any room with custom, decorative drapery for a sumptuous look.

6. Budget Blinds Signature Illusions

Budget Blinds Signature Illusions are a perfect example of brilliant function and elegance. Illusions filter harsh daylight while still allowing a view. With just a click of a button, you can control your Illusion shades with motorization by Somfy^, the world’s leading manufacturer of specialized motors and control systems. Cordless operation makes them pet and child safe, enhancing your home’s environment.

7. Specialty-Shaped Shutters

Shutters can be custom-made to fit any uniquely-shaped window. A Budget Blinds Style Consultant will expertly measure your windows and install your new shutters for precise coverage. Shutters come in a wide range of materials such as hardwood, faux wood, composite and aluminum to meet your specific needs for each room. A major bonus for shutters is they don’t have dangling cords making them child and pet safe.

8. Bi-fold and Tri-fold Hinged Shutters

A great window treatment for medium and large windows like bay windows, are bi-fold or tri-fold hinged shutters. The shutters are hinged together creating a number of folds on each side of the window. The shutters will cover the windows when closed to allow for complete privacy but, when opened, they fold out of the way, allowing for a full view.

9. Inspired Drapes Drapery Panels

Budget Blinds offers ready-made drapery panels from the exclusive Inspired Drapes line. They are quick to order and install to dress up any window. They’re offered in three styles: flat panels, back tab panels or grommet panels, and come in three finishes, Oil Rubbed Bronze, Satin Smoke and Matte Nickel. They come in three lengths: 52” x84”, 52” x96” or 52” x108,” which accommodate most standard windows. There are 28 designer fabrics and colors to choose from, including Essential Silks, Woven Textures, Embroidered Moroccan Star and more. They can provide extra coverage to any window while adding a designer look.

10. Top Treatments, Trims and Tassels

Top treatments like valances and cornices add a posh look to any windows. With plenty of fabrics, patterns and colors to choose from, you can design a top treatment to match your distinctive style. Trims like tassels and braids can be added to any top treatment for an embellished look. Top treatments not only add elegance, they can add height to your window by being installed inches above the top of the window frame. Lastly, top treatments are great to mask architectural issues like uneven windows or an arch you’ve grown tired of.

11. Drapery Hardware

Drapery hardware makes a statement when paired with drapery or curtains. Budget Blinds offers hardware in a wide selection of materials like metals, wood, ceramic and glass in custom rods and with beautiful artistic finials. Decorative drapery hardware is like adding the beautiful bow to your present– it completes the window’s look. 

12. Layering it all together

Each of these 12 beautiful window treatments can be used alone, or you can combine them to create a completely custom look for your home. For example, in this room layering distressed wood blinds with a lavish top cornice and custom drapery panels creates an elegant and trendy living space. No matter your style, these 12 ideas can help you get started designing your home’s new window treatments.

Embrace your windows with these 12 beautiful window treatment ideas from Budget Blinds.  Call 651-351-7620 today or go online to budgetblinds.com to find the Style Consultant near you and schedule your FREE, in-home consultation. Scroll through the online image galleries and see if you don’t agree that the design possibilities are endless for your new window treatments!

Plantation shutters are a timeless design that will never go out of style. Exquisitely crafted and meant to last, they come in a variety of options like real hardwood and composite faux wood to match your refined taste. Shutters have an abundance of benefits that will cater to your high standards. They can be customized for your windows and there are new advances like motorization and invisible tilt that make them the ultimate choice when it comes to window coverings. Let Budget Blinds help you pick the perfect plantation shutters for your home.

They Do it All: Benefits

Planation shutters are a combination of beauty and practical functionality.  They have an outstanding reputation for their great benefits. Of course they provide privacy and ventilation which are the first benefits you look for in a window covering but those are not the only things that they have to offer.

A major benefit is lowering your energy bill; this is due to their insulating design which comes in handy during those hot summer months. Plantation shutters come in a variety of louver sizes ranging from 1 ¼ “to 4 ½”, to protect you and your belongings from harmful UV rays. No matter your location shutters are a great option to help you save.

Another benefit they are known for is durability; they are constructed to be long-lasting, not requiring replacement every few years. Having all your windows covered by shutters creates a polished uniform look from the outside that adds curb appeal to your home, making them a valuable investment. Placing shutters on your windows might seem like a big step to take but overall they are the type of window treatment that will provide endless benefits throughout the years.

Lastly, plantation shutters are very low maintenance and easy to clean which is wonderful for whoever has to clean them. Most window coverings take time and effort to clean but shutters makes it simple. A major advantage to having them hinged into the window frame is that they can swing out so front and back sides are easy to reach. Just takes a quick wipe down to keep your windows looking beautiful.

All the Right Angles: Customization

Custom-made to fit any window, plantation shutters can be made constructed into any shape to properly fit your window frame. When they are accurately measured and installed it will ensure there are no gaps causing unwanted light. You can even customize the color of your plantation shutters to match your individual style. Budget Blinds Style Consultants are the experts when it comes to custom-made plantation shutters.

Custom shutters are impeccable for those hard to reach windows, arched windows and French doors. Skylights can be a common problem in households when it comes to covering them. Not every window treatment will be able to cover a skylight without issues, but shutters can be made to fit them and motorized for easy opening and closing.

Shutters can even be custom designed to fit arched windows, allowing you to cover the window but still keep its unique shape. An arched window shutter can be split by a divider rail that makes it easier to control light, privacy and the view between the top and the bottom of the window.

French doors can be covered by plantation shutters for a sophisticated look. You are still able to enjoy the view without sacrificing privacy. Customizing your French doors with plantation shutters is ideal because they are a long-lasting option and are mounted directly on the door to prevent movement. They have door handle cut-outs to facilitate opening and closing of the door.  Customized plantation shutters are a perfect solution for all your difficult windows and doors.

Keep it Moving: Motorization

Budget Blinds uses motorization powered by Somfy^®  to make your life easier. As the world’s leading manufacturer of specialized motors and control systems, so you know you are getting the best when it comes to motorization with Somfy. Your shutters can be programmed with timers to allow for automatic opening and closing. They can be managed by wireless wall switches, hand-held remotes, a tablet or Smartphone app. Motorized shutters are  child- and pet-safe because they are cordless.

One Easy Step: Invisible Tilt

The invisible tilt is one of the hottest developments in the window coverings world. It is a way to have beautiful plantation shutters with an unobstructed view. Instead of having a tilt rod down the middle of your shutter it is hidden from view giving the shutter a more modern and open look. With a gentle push up or down with one louver, it will move the others in unison to open or close. Also, absence of a tilt rod allows your shutters to have a tighter closed position and makes it easier to clean with one easy swipe. Budget Blinds offers invisible tilt on all our beautiful planation shutters.

Plantation shutters are the picture-perfect window covering. They have it all! With high standards and elaborate features, you should have them on every window in your home. Let Budget Blinds transform the look and feel of your home with plantation shutters. Call 651-351-7620, or go online at www.budgetblinds.com to find a Budget Blinds Style Consultant nearest you and schedule your free in-home consultation.

Removing your blinds may seem like an easy task according to DIY (do-it-yourself) videos on YouTube, but that is not necessarily true. If you are not a trained professional, it is almost impossible to remove window treatments without damaging your walls. There are plenty of steps to the process, and making just a little mistake can ruin the whole project and end up costing you more money. In order to get the job done correctly, it is best to call an expert.

If you are willing to take a chance with your DIY skills, consider all the steps required to remove blinds. After reading the process below, you may want to call your local Budget Blinds^® to handle your blinds removal.

Step 1: Tool check

Before you begin your project, you will need these tools to complete the job correctly.

1. Pliers
2. Screwdrivers
3. Joint Compound
4. Paint Brush
5. Putty Knife
6. Sponge
7. Paint matching your current wall color
8. A brave friend to lend a helping hand
9. Ladder, if you’re under seven feet tall

Step 2: Push blinds all the way up  

Before starting the removal process you will need to raise your blinds all the way up, this makes them easier to handle. If your blinds are broken or damaged, this can become an issue making them harder to remove without damaging your walls.

Step 3: Remove the valance

Carefully remove the valance; if this is not done properly it can cause the most damage. Grip the bottom of the valance and push towards the window; it will create a gap between top of valance and clips. Then push the valance upward and outward at an angle until it is not touching the clips.

Step 4: Removing door mounted blinds

If you are removing door-mounted blinds, you must remove the hold-down brackets. The brackets are attached to the bottom of the blind. Occasionally, the end cap of the bottom rail has some hold-down pins that will need to be removed before removing the brackets. If the pins or screws are tight, they will have to be removed with a set of pliers and a power screwdriver instead of a manual.

Step 5: Removing other types blinds or shades

If you are removing faux wood, wood or horizontal blinds, you need to unlock the mounting brackets from the front and side head rails. Wood blinds are extremely heavy; you will need an assistant to help you with the removal process. For removal of Roman shades or cellular shades, the brackets are often spring loaded or require a tab to loosen the shade. It is highly recommended to refer to the product installation instructions to determine the type of bracket.

Step 6: Remove all the brackets

Now remove the side and center brackets with a screwdriver. If the blind is attached to wall anchors, you have to remove them with needle nose pliers.

Step 7: Covering your tracks 

After the blind is removed, you will have holes in your wall due to the screws. Use joint compound to patch the holes using a putty knife. While it is drying, smooth out the joint compound with a damp sponge and let it dry completely. Lastly, paint over the area to match the wall color and prepare to install your next window treatment.

Now that you see how much labor goes into removing your blinds, you may want to reconsider your “simple,” DIY project and hire an expert from Budget Blinds. Here are a couple reasons why a professional from Budget Blinds can complete your job with ease:

• Specialists in the window covering business who will correctly remove your blinds.
• They have all the tools needed to safely remove your blinds without damaging your walls.
• Experts in choosing the right window coverings for your home and installing them correctly.
• They can properly dispose of your old and unwanted blinds.

You can trust the professionals at Budget Blinds for all your window covering projects. Call 651 – 351 – 7620  today to schedule your FREE, in home consultation! Let us take care of all the hard work! We can remove your blinds in the time it takes you to enjoy a cup of coffee.

Especially during the summer, people are drawn to the outdoors because of its beauty. The outdoors can become an inspiration to designing the interior of your home, bringing in sunlight and natural textures and colors to create a more casual vibe. Budget Blinds^® can help you achieve an indoor/outdoor ambiance with these top three tips.

Energy costs have been steadily climbing year after year. Business owners (like homeowners too!) would love to see lower energy costs, but saving money by never running the heat or air conditioning is not very practical – especially in Minnesota!  Improved energy efficiency is on everyone’s minds as a way to save money and live better and in commercial setting, to please your customers and employees too!

Depending on the type of business, commercial buildings can be home to just employees, or employees and your customers. If your business is serving the public in any capacity, you need the surroundings to be comfortable, functional and safe so people will stay longer–buying, playing, eating and spending 🙂 With employees, the environment must also be safe, functional and comfortable. This leads to higher productivity and happier employees!

BB Commercial Solutions (BBCS) knows that a big part of comfort is temperature, and temperature can greatly impact your customers. Unless you’ve given some focused thought to sunlight control and “taking your business’ temperature,” you may inadvertently be minimizing comfort, slowing productivity and reducing profits.

WINDOW COVERINGS CAN MAKE YOUR BUSINESS MORE ENERGY EFFICIENT. 

It’s a well-known fact that natural light has powerful effects on health, impacting mood, alertness and sleep habits. Many modern buildings have walls of windows to let in beneficial natural light – however, big windows can also generate excessive heat during summer and cold during the winter, driving up energy costs as you try to maintain a comfortable year round temperature.

The U.S. Department of Energy projects that heat gain and loss can be reduced by 25% with proper window treatments designed for energy efficiency. Energy efficiency in the workplace includes blocking sun and glare, reducing heat/cold exchanges with the outside, and UV protection for furniture, artwork, equipment, products and inventory. A more neutralized temperature will lessen the need to run heating and air, saving on energy costs. 🙂

Window treatments that improve energy efficiency include:

• Solar Shades and Screens – block up to 99% of sun’s heat and glare
• Roller Shades – infinite choices of color, fabric and texture to match any décor, easy to use, room-darkening capabilities
• Cellular shades – light-filtering to blackout, provide privacy and reduce heat loss in the winter and heat gain in the summer
• Graphic Shades – energy-efficient messaging for brand enhancement
• Window film and tinting – UV protection, privacy options in decorative and security films
• Blinds – sun blocking when closed; all our commercial blinds offer flame retardant qualities and are certified green
• Shutters – real or faux wood in myriad colors, cordless operation beautifies your space
• Drapes – add style, privacy and sound control as well as insulation; can be light filtering or sun blocking

Used alone or paired together, each of these solutions can improve the energy efficiency of your business by giving you more control. Adding motorization to blinds, shades, shutters and drapes increases ease of control with wall-mounted or handheld remotes as well as timers and sensors that automatically respond to temperature and time settings.

BBCS: THE BEST WINDOW COVERINGS PROVIDER FOR YOUR BUSINESS! 

BBCS is your one-stop shop for commercial window treatments whether you are one storefront or a national chain of stores.

• BBCS can design window covering solutions to help reduce your energy costs up to 30%.
• Our products meet LEED (green certification), ANSI (American National Standards Institute) and NFPA 701 (National Fire Protection Agency) standards.
• Our clients cover a variety of industries: Subway, Marriott Suites, Chase, Gold’s Gym, Super Cuts, Travel Centers of America and Walgreens as a sampling.
• BBCS partners with some of the biggest names in the commercial window coverings business to offer the largest selection of products; for example, Levolor, SWFcontract, Bali, Somfy, Phifer and Graber.

BB Commercial Solutions is a division of Home Franchise Concepts(HFC), the parent company of Budget Blinds, the largest custom window coverings franchise in North America. With BBCS, you get over 20 years’ experience, the largest selection of window treatments meeting or exceeding national standards for business, volume pricing advantage and the strongest warranty in the industry.

When you’re ready to increase the energy efficiency of your business, we are ready to help. To talk with a BB Commercial Solutions professional about which products are the best solution for your commercial and business needs, call (651) 351 – 7620 today Don’t delay…summer (and the heat) is on its way!