With the current recession, many Americans are looking for ways to save money and that includes their window shades. They still want things to look nice and attractive but they want to do it in a more affordable way. In addition, many Americans are looking to their window treatments to cut energy cost.
Here are a few ways you can cut cost without sacrificing style.
Buying Discount Blinds
The most obvious way to save money is to buy cheaper blinds and shades. Many shops online and off have a discount section. Check out the discounts and close outs on a regular basis to see what stores have to offer. Sales change on a regular basis so it is a good idea to keep checking until you find what you are looking for in a window treatment.
Buy Plain and Decorate
Buying a plain shade and decorating it yourself is a great way to save some money without sacrificing personal style. All you need to do is purchase a window shade in a solid color and then add your own personal accents.
You can check online or the library for how to books for inspiration. However, the most basic ways are adding lace to edge, stenciling a design and adding fabric. All you really need is some extra time and imagination to pull this off.
Buy Energy Efficient Blinds
While the initial investment for energy efficient blinds is more than regular blinds, the long-term payoff is excellent. If you purchase a qualifying blind or shade, you can receive a Federal Tax Credit. You will want to check for qualifying blinds before you purchase.
In addition to the Federal Tax Credit, it is estimated that a family can save 25% on their energy bill. The Comfortrack side track system found on several styles of blinds is rated five times more insulating than a single pane window. This level of insulation along with honeycomb shades makes the ComforTrack Double Cell Shades energy efficient enough for the Federal Tax Credit.
The Federal Tax Credit can save homeowners up to $1,500 dollars. Add that to the lowered energy bills and the blinds pay for themselves. Currently the tax credit is only good through the end of 2010 but it could be extended once again.
Saving money on your window treatments does not have to be hard. You can still buy quality window shades at discount prices. For those willing to pay up front, you can spend a little more now for energy efficient shades and pay less on energy over each month.
Order free samples and see for yourself the quality Window Shades offered at Blinds Chalet. Visit http://www.blindschalet.com/ or call 1-888-633-7840 today and see how you can get no payments for 90 days with PayPal Pay Later.
Excellent advice! Any wood or faux wood blind is going to be more energy efficient than a metal mini blind. But as the article mentioned Cellular or Honeycomb shades are going to give you the most savings on your energy bill. There are many color options as well as different lift types including motorized ( probably not your best bet for saving money though).