In many ways, the roller shade is the perfect window treatment for schools and universities.  The old standby in most of these institutions of education is the dreaded mini blind.  But let's face it - it's not 1952 any more and the world of architecture and technology has evolved to a place far from the mini blind.

The most oft heard reason for mini blinds instead of roller shades is budget, which is a reasonable concern especially if dealing with other priorities.  But, maybe the cost calculation should include, safety concerns, anti-microbial concerns, light control concerns, audio visual usage concerns, and energy cost concerns.  In all of these areas modern roller shades are superior to the institutional standard of mini blinds.

Why?  Because, roller shades can be made without cords, or with a single loop cord that is connected in a such a way as to greatly eliminate the chance of injury or death by accidental strangulation.  Roller shades can be made with a high-tech anti-microbial fabric which greatly reduces the spread of germs.  Roller shades reduce glare but allows for natural light and all the advantages of your educational architecture.  For audio visual usage, roller shades can offer various light control options which optimize the presentation while maintaining the ability to see the students and their ability to take notes.  And, modern roller shades are able to control heat gain in windows in way which provides for a more comfortable and efficient learning space.

Are you convinced that roller shades are a great choice for your educational institution? 

Of course, we would love to help you implement the advantages of roller shades into your school or university.  Contact us today for a complimentary consultation and thanks for your interest in Latreia Blinds and Shutters!

As you consider your plantation shutter project, it is helpful to be able to visualize what panels might look like - per specification parameters.  If you can see this in your minds eye, you are well on your way to knowing if plantation shutters are right for you.

So with that said, standard rectangular shutters can consist of one or more panels hinged in a variety of configurations. Single panels can be individually hinged, or two panels may be hinged together in a bi-fold design. All bi-fold panels are butted together and have a butterflied butt hinge attached on the back of the stiles. Maximum width for 2ea panels bi-fold poly shutters, 2L or 2R is 42” and 48” for basswood shutters.

Remember, when thinking about your panel height we recommend that panels over 96” in height have a divider rail, so that louvers will not need to be hand pressed to close.  Additionally, panels over 96” in height require a divider rail to ensure structural integrity.

One last thing , bi-fold panels (2L 2R) without a track system can only span 96” for basswood shutters and 84” for poly shutters.

We would love to help you with your shutter project! Contact us today for a complimentary consultation and thanks for your interest in Latreia Blinds and Shutters!