Both support the slats and allow the blind to operate, but visually, they're quite different. In this guide, we'll compare tapes and cords to help you decide which will work best for your windows and your home.
What's the Difference Between Tapes and Cords on Wooden Venetian Blinds?
The main difference between tapes and cords is their appearance, although there are a few practical differences to consider too.
Wooden Venetian Blinds With Cords
Traditional ladder cords are thin and discreet, running vertically through and around the slats. Because they're relatively unobtrusive, they allow the colour and finish of the wooden slats to be the main focus.
This makes cords a good choice if you prefer a simple, minimal look.
Wooden Venetian Blinds With Tapes
Tapes are wider strips of fabric that run vertically down the blind in place of the thinner ladder cords. They're much more noticeable, making them a design feature in their own right.
You can choose tapes that closely match the colour of your blinds for a coordinated finish or use a contrasting colour to make them stand out. Depending on the blind, tapes can also cover the small routing holes in the slats for a neater finish.
Why Choose Wooden Venetian Blinds With Tapes?
Tapes make the vertical detailing of your wooden Venetian blinds part of the design. The fabric adds a softer texture against the wooden slats, which can give the blind a warmer, more decorative finish.
You can match the tapes to the slats for a subtle look, choose a contrasting shade to make them stand out, or use them to pick up an accent colour elsewhere in the room. This gives you plenty of scope to personalise your blinds without committing to that colour across the entire window.
Why Choose Wooden Venetian Blinds With Cords
If you prefer a cleaner, more minimal look, traditional cords may be the better choice. They're much less noticeable than tapes, so your eye is naturally drawn to the wooden slats rather than the vertical lines running down them.
This can work particularly well in simple or contemporary interiors, or anywhere you want your blinds to feel more understated.
Are Wooden Venetian Blinds With Tapes Harder to Clean?
Not particularly. Both tapes and cords are relatively easy to look after, with most day-to-day cleaning simply involving dusting the wooden slats regularly.
Fabric tapes may need a little more attention from time to time as they're wider and more exposed than cords, but they shouldn't make your blinds significantly more difficult to maintain.
Other Things to Consider When Choosing Wooden Venetian Blinds
Tapes or cords are only one part of choosing your wooden Venetian blinds. You'll also want to think about the width and colour of the slats, the size of your window and how the blinds will work with the other colours and materials in the room.
It's also worth considering how much privacy and light control you need, particularly for bedrooms or windows that are overlooked.
Made-to-Measure Wooden Venetian Blinds from Aspiration Blinds
Sometimes the easiest way to choose between tapes and cords is to see the different options in your own home.
During a free home consultation, our team can show you the different colours, finishes and combinations available and help you find a style that works with your room. We'll also measure your windows before your made-to-measure wooden Venetian blinds are professionally fitted for you.
Explore our wooden Venetian blinds to find out more or book your free home consultation