FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Answers to common questions about blinds, shades, shutters, exterior solar shades and free consultations across North Texas.
Getting started
How does local matching work?
Submit your project details and ZIP code using our free request form. We'll review your request and connect you with a participating Local Professional who serves your area. They can discuss your project, answer questions, take measurements if needed and explain available options. There's no obligation to move forward.
What window treatments are available?
Participating providers may offer blinds, plantation shutters, roller, Roman, cellular and blackout shades, exterior solar shades and other custom window-treatment options. Availability depends on your location and the professionals serving your area.
Is the consultation really free?
Yes. Requesting a consultation through NTX Window Coverings is free. There's no obligation to buy products or hire a provider after learning about your options.
Can I request a consultation for multiple windows or my entire home?
Yes. Whether you're replacing one window, updating several rooms or outfitting your entire home, you can discuss all of your project goals in one consultation.
Is NTX Window Coverings the company that will install my window treatments?
No. NTX Window Coverings is an independent referral and matching service. We help homeowners explore window-treatment options and connect with a participating Local Professional. Installation, pricing, scheduling, warranties and project details are handled directly by the Local Professional. See our disclaimer.
Who handles pricing, measurements, warranties and installation?
The participating Local Professional you are connected with. Each company sets its own pricing, product selection, installation methods, warranties and project timelines.
Choosing a window treatment
What's the difference between blinds and shades?
Blinds use adjustable slats that let you control light and privacy, while shades are made from continuous fabric that raises and lowers as one piece. Shades often look softer and come in styles such as roller, Roman, cellular and blackout. The best option depends on your home's style, privacy needs and budget.
Which window treatment is best for my home?
It depends on the room, how much light and privacy you want, the size of your windows and your budget. Bedrooms often call for room-darkening shades or shutters, living areas for light-filtering shades or blinds, and sunny patios for exterior solar shades. Compare all options on our window treatments page.
Blinds
What types of blinds can I choose from?
Common options include faux wood, real wood, aluminum and vertical blinds. Faux wood holds up well in kitchens, bathrooms and other humid rooms, while real wood offers a warmer, natural look. Product availability depends on the Local Professional serving your area.
Are faux wood blinds a good choice for North Texas homes?
Faux wood blinds are popular because they resist warping from heat and humidity and are easy to clean. They work well in kitchens, bathrooms and rooms that get strong afternoon sun.
Can blinds be cordless or motorized?
Many blind styles come with cordless lift systems, which look cleaner and are safer around children and pets, and some can be motorized for hard-to-reach windows. Availability and pricing are set by the Local Professional.
Window shades
What types of window shades are available?
Popular styles include roller, Roman, cellular (honeycomb), solar and blackout shades. Each offers a different balance of light control, privacy, insulation and style.
Which shades are best for bedrooms and media rooms?
Blackout and room-darkening shades block the most light, which makes them a common choice for bedrooms, nurseries and media rooms. Cellular shades with a blackout liner can also add insulation.
Do cellular shades help with energy efficiency?
Cellular shades trap air in their honeycomb-shaped pockets, which can help reduce heat gain in summer and heat loss in winter. How much difference they make depends on your windows, your home and how you use the shades.
Plantation shutters
Are plantation shutters a good long-term choice?
Plantation shutters are a durable option with adjustable light control, privacy and an extra layer of insulation, and many homeowners choose them as a lasting upgrade. Whether they fit depends on your style, budget and windows.
What materials are plantation shutters made from?
Shutters are commonly made from real wood, composite or vinyl (poly). Composite and vinyl resist moisture and warping, which makes them popular for kitchens and bathrooms, while real wood offers a classic, natural look. Material options vary by Local Professional.
Can shutters fit arched or specialty windows?
Many shutters can be custom-made for arched, angled or oversized windows. A Local Professional can measure your windows and explain what's possible.
Exterior solar shades
What do exterior solar shades do?
Exterior solar shades mount outside your windows or patio openings. They block much of the sun's heat and UV rays before they reach the glass, which helps reduce glare and indoor heat while keeping your outdoor view.
Are exterior solar shades a good choice for North Texas homes?
They are popular across North Texas because they help reduce heat, glare and UV exposure while keeping outdoor views, especially on patios, outdoor living spaces and west-facing windows that get strong afternoon sun.
Where are exterior solar shades usually installed?
Most often over west- and south-facing windows, covered patios and outdoor living areas that get strong afternoon sun. A Local Professional can look at your home's sun exposure and suggest where shades would help most.
Can exterior solar shades be motorized?
Many can be motorized and run from a remote, wall switch or smart-home system, which is handy for large patio openings. Motorization options and pricing are set by the Local Professional serving your area.
Service areas
Which North Texas areas do you serve?
NTX Window Coverings helps homeowners connect with participating providers serving communities across North Texas, including Prosper, Frisco, McKinney, Celina, Little Elm, Plano, Allen, Melissa, Aubrey, The Colony and nearby areas. Availability may vary by location.
How do I know if a Local Professional serves my area?
Include your ZIP code on the free request form. We use it to find a participating Local Professional who serves your neighborhood. Availability can vary by location and project type.
Can I still request a consultation if my city isn't listed?
Yes. Submit a request with your ZIP code and project details. If a participating Local Professional serves your area, they may contact you. There's no obligation either way.
Still Have Questions?
Tell us about your project and a participating Local Professional who serves your area may contact you to talk it through. There's no obligation to hire.