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How To Block Lights From The Side Of The Blinds

July 01, 2022

Blackout roller shades with lights filtering on the sides

Do you have lights coming from the side of your blinds and shades that you would like to cover? Well, don't fret because there are ways for covering up these pesky gaps between your shades and your wall. Whether you already have your window treatments or not, read on to find out what options we offer!

Window treatments are made a little bit smaller than the width of your window to ensure they don't rub and cut into each other when drawn up or down. This leaves just enough space on either side for light and heat from outside to filter inside!

Block the gap on the side of your existing blinds

Depending on the type of shade chosen for a particular window, you will have different degrees of light gaps between your blinds, shades, and curtains – cellular shades for example, have as little as ¼” gap while roller blinds, solar shades, and sheer shades can be up to 1/2" from each side.

If you are looking to cover gaps on existing blinds or shades, there are 2 options available.

  • Side Channels or Side Track for blinds

The first option is to upgrade your window with vinyl light gap blockers to prevent unwanted sunlight from entering and blocking out the darkness. These are strips you can easily adhere to any surface, making it easy for them to stick securely on nearly anything! 

White blackout shades with side track

This choise will give a clean and linear look to your window treatments and to the over all room, preventing all the lights from coming in. Most of ShadeMonster blackout shades offer light blocker as an upgrade, but if your shade does not offer them, you can purchase them separately.

White blackout shades with side tracks in bedroom

  • Drapery layered with blackout shades

The Second option is to layer draperies on top of your blackout or roller shades which will give your windows an attractive layered look and the blackout drapes will keep it dark in any room when they're pulled shut at night – perfect for blocking out unwanted sunlight!

Drapery Layered with blackout shades

 

How to Block Light from Windows with New Window Treatments

Did you know that there are many benefits to a dark room, including better and longer sleep? Room darkness is crucial for bedrooms and nurseries and blind light gaps can really get in the way. So when you’re ready to purchase new window treatments and want to prevent light gaps, first ask yourself how much sunlight your room receives and choose a material accordingly. Not every room of your house requires total darkness. For the ones that do, consider blackout fabrics. Both roller shades and curtains are available in blackout options. 

While the fabric is 100% blackout and will not allow sunlight to pass through, new window treatments can also benefit from side channels to prevent light gaps. 

Bedroom with grey double roller shades installed

Outside Mount Blinds Block Gaps Lights

Blocking light gaps can be a pain, but there are some easier solutions. Window treatments such as blinds or shades come in many different types and often have options for blocking out the sun's rays completely with an outside mount blind.

blackout blinds outside mount

Outside mount shades are mounted outside the window opening and made larger on all sides to cover the entire window. This will eliminate any chance of those pesky daylight shadows. If you're not looking to cover up decorative molding on either side of the window frame, then this is probably the best option for you- especially if privacy is your goal too, since these styles offer complete coverage.

Outside mount blackout blind

While this may make it difficult to see out of your windows, these shades will go from bottom-to-top covering all areas inside or out so that no one sees anything but pure darkness!

At ShadeMonster, all window treatments are custom-made to fit your windows with precision. Our designers help you find the right product for your needs. Whether you’re in need of parts and accessories for your existing blinds or looking to purchase brand new window shades, ShadeMonster has got you covered. With our “No Fear, We’re Here” motto, you can rest assured ShadeMonster will complete your window treatment project from start to finish. 

 

Need more help dealing with light gaps? Call (866) 206-8056 for free design help from one of our expert window covering designers.

Why Trust ShadeMonster with your Window Treatment? 

ShadeMonster boasts over 25 years of experience creating custom window treatments. Our products come directly from our local factory guaranteeing high quality customizable materials, competitive pricing, and quick turn around.  Contact us today for your free estimate, and have your new shades in less than 7 business days! 




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