🏠 Custom vs. Store-Bought Window Coverings & Screens: What’s the Real Difference?

When it’s time to upgrade your window coverings or screens, you’re faced with a decision:Go custom or grab something off the shelf?

While both options serve a purpose, the difference in fit, finish, and function can be significant — especially when it comes to specialized solutions like retractable screens. Let’s break it down so you can make the best choice for your home.

🧵 What Are Custom Window Coverings & Screens?

Custom products are made to fit your exact window or door. A professional comes to your home, takes precise measurements, and helps you select materials, finishes, and features tailored to your needs.

Custom options include:

• Roller, honeycomb, zebra/dual, or Roman shades

• Light-filtering or blackout fabric choices

• Custom flyscreens or magnetic screens

• Retractable screens for patios, front doors, or oversized openings

✅ Benefits of Custom:

• 📐 Precise Fit: Ideal for unique window shapes, large doors, or patio entrances

• 🎨 Full Customization: Fabric, color, control type (manual or motorized)

• 🛠️ Professional Installation: Clean, accurate, and stress-free

• 🚪 Retractable Screen Options: Neatly hide away when not in use

• 🔧 Support & Warranty: Local service you can count on

❌ Considerations:

• Higher upfront cost

• 2–3 week lead time on average

🛒 What Are Store-Bought Window Coverings & Screens?

These are ready-made options you can buy online or in-store. You may need to cut, install, or adapt them to fit your windows and doors.

Store-bought options include:

• Standard blinds and roller shades

• Basic magnetic or velcro flyscreens

• Off-the-shelf retractable screen kits for doors

✅ Benefits of Store-Bought:

• 💰 Lower Cost: Great for budget-conscious upgrades

• 🛍️ Immediate Availability: Pick up today, install tonight

• 🔄 Short-Term Solution: Fine for rentals or temporary spaces

❌ Considerations:

• Sizing is often off — light gaps or poor seal

• Retractable screen kits can be bulky and flimsy

• Limited colors and fabric options

• DIY install can be tricky for larger doors

⚖️ Side-by-Side: Custom vs. Store-Bought

Feature	Custom 🧵	Store-Bought 🛒
Fit & Finish	Perfectly measured & installed	Standard sizes, may need trimming
Design Options	Full range of styles & materials	Limited stock options
Retractable Screens	Seamless, discreet, long-lasting	Visible housing, basic build
Durability	High-quality, made to last	Varies, often less durable
Installation	Pro install, clean results	DIY — can be time-consuming
Insulation & UV Control	Excellent (with premium fabrics)	Moderate to low
Warranty & Support	Local help + product warranty	Limited or no service after sale

🧠 So... Which One Should You Choose?

✅ Custom if:

• You want premium look, functionality, and long-term value

• You’re dealing with large openings, sliding doors, or non-standard windows

• You want retractable screens that blend in and work smoothly

• You prefer professional installation and long-term support

✅ Store-Bought if:

• You’re upgrading temporarily or on a tight budget

• You’re comfortable installing products yourself

• You’re okay with a one-size-fits-most solution

👋 Let’s Talk About Custom That Works

At Open Blind Solutions, we help you get it right the first time from custom window coverings to retractable screens that are clean, quiet, and built to last.

📩 Book a consultation today and see how custom can make all the difference.