How to reduce light gaps from the sides of blinds and shades.

Remove light leaks & light gaps.

"Light leaks" or "light gaps" occur when light from the sides of your blind or shade is seen. The light gaps exist since the blind or shade needs room to be operated properly. Blinds and shades cannot fit flush within a window since the fabric or material would brush along the window frame when in use. The gap allows the blind to function properly. The below picture illustrates this light gap that exists between the zebra shades and the window frame.

For rooms that need complete light blockage, such as a home theater or bed room, light gaps can become a real nuisance. Although light gaps may be inevitable, there are many options to reduce them or remove them.

Install light blocking strips or liners

Light blocking strips or liners can be installed to cover the light gap. These strips can either be a piece of fabric or plastic. Most plastic strips are shaped like an "L" and is placed either in front of or behind the blind so that it fills the gap where the light is visible. The strips are be adjusted to any size window and are quick and simple to install. The plastic strips often have a sticky backing that is placed to the side of a window. 

Install outside mounted blinds instead of inside mounted blinds

Inside mounted blinds will often have light gaps since the blinds have to fit inside the frame itself. With outside mounted blinds, the blind will fit over the window frame making light gap less likely to happen. Although some light may still emerge from the window, it will not be as severe. For outside mounted blinds, it is important to get correct measurements to ensure the blind or shade will provide full coverage.

Use other window treatments

Another common way to reduce light leaks and light gaps is to use other window treatments. Drapery panels or curtains can be used in conjunction with a blind or shade to cover up any unwanted light. This is called layering window treatments.

If you are experiencing unwanted light gaps, it may beneficial to experiment with any of these options. It is important to experiment with different solutions to see which one you like the best!

If you have any questions, email us at info@blindshadeparts.com.