Blind terms
Headrail, slat, vane, ladder, tilter, cord lock, bottom rail, valance, route hole, hold-down bracket, and tilt wand.
Shade terms
Tube, clutch, idler, hem bar, fascia, cassette, reverse roll, openness factor, side channel, blackout, and top-down bottom-up.
Shutter terms
Louver, panel, stile, rail, divider rail, frame, tilt rod, hidden tilt, bypass, bifold, and tension screw.
Drapery and automation terms
Fullness, stack-back, return, traverse rod, carrier, baton, motor torque, limits, channel, group, scene, bridge, and integration.
Key takeaways
- Use photos and dimensions when identifying parts.
- Product names are not always standardized across brands.
- The same word can describe different components in different systems.
- Written specifications reduce errors in quoting and ordering.
Common questions
Is a blind the same as a shade?
Typically, blinds use adjustable slats or vanes; shades use a continuous fabric or material panel.
What is a headrail?
It is the upper housing that supports the controls and hanging components of many blinds and shades.
What is openness factor?
It describes the approximate open area of a solar screen fabric.