I can’t stop raving about Norman Blinds. If you’re hunting for window treatments that blend style, durability, and smart functionality, these blinds are a game-changer.
They’ve transformed my living space, and I’m convinced they’ll do the same for you. From their sleek designs to their innovative features, Norman Blinds offer a perfect mix of form and function.
In this article, I’ll share my personal experience, break down the pros and cons, offer maintenance tips, and compare them to other brands. Trust me, by the end, you’ll see why Norman is worth every penny.
My Journey With Norman Blinds
Picture this: I’m moving into my new home, a cozy two-bedroom with big windows that let in tons of light.
The problem?
Too much light. My living room felt like a greenhouse by noon, and my bedroom was no sanctuary for late-morning sleep-ins.
I needed window treatments that could handle intense sunlight while looking good.
After some research, I landed on Norman Blinds, specifically their Faux Wood SmartPrivacy Blinds and Motorized Roman Shades.
I was skeptical at first—could they really live up to the hype? Spoiler alert: they did, and then some.
Ordering was a breeze. I visited a local dealer, and the staff walked me through customization options like a friend helping me pick out furniture. I chose faux wood for the bathroom (humidity-proof!) and motorized Roman shades for the living room because I wanted that smart-home vibe.
The measuring and installation process took about three weeks, which felt reasonable for custom work. When the installers arrived, they were professional, quick, and left no mess.
I remember standing in my living room, remote in hand, watching the shades glide up and down effortlessly. It was like living in a sci-fi movie, but better.
The first thing I noticed was the light control. My living room went from blindingly bright to a soft, diffused glow. The faux wood blinds in the bathroom blocked out prying eyes without making the space feel like a cave.
And the motorized feature? A total game-changer. I programmed the shades to open at 7 a.m. and close at dusk, which made my mornings feel luxurious and my evenings private.
The quality was evident from day one—the materials felt sturdy, the finishes were flawless, and the operation was whisper-quiet. My only hiccup was figuring out the remote’s settings, but a quick call to customer service sorted it out.
Six months in, I’m still obsessed with how these blinds elevate my home.
What Makes Norman Blinds Stand Out?
Norman Blinds aren’t just window coverings; they’re a lifestyle upgrade. I’ve had friends over who couldn’t stop commenting on how polished my windows look. But it’s not just about aesthetics—Norman brings a lot to the table. Let’s break down what makes them special.
- Unmatched Craftsmanship
The first thing you’ll notice with Norman Blinds is their attention to detail.
Every slat, every stitch feels like it was crafted with care.
I chose the Faux Wood SmartPrivacy Blinds for my bathroom, and they’re built to withstand humidity without warping.
The wood-like texture looks so real that my guests often assume they’re actual hardwood.
Norman’s in-house manufacturing is a big reason for this quality. Unlike brands that outsource, Norman controls nearly every step, ensuring consistency.
This hands-on approach makes you feel like you’re getting something special, not a mass-produced afterthought.
- Customization Galore
You’re not stuck with cookie-cutter options here. Norman offers a dizzying array of styles, from wood blinds to Roman shades to plantation shutters. Want blackout shades for your bedroom?
They’ve got you. Need something sleek for your office? Done.
I customized my living room shades to match my navy accent wall, and the color match was spot-on. You can tweak everything—materials, colors, sizes, even lift systems. It’s like designing your own blinds from scratch, which makes them perfect for anyone who wants their home to feel uniquely theirs.
- Smart Features That Wow
If you’re into smart homes like I am, Norman’s motorized options are a dream. My Roman shades are controlled via a remote and an app, letting me adjust them from my couch or even when I’m away.
I’ve set schedules so my blinds open to greet the morning sun and close to keep my home cool in the afternoon. The motors are quiet, and the integration with my smart home system was seamless.
It’s not just convenient—it’s fun. You’ll feel like you’re living in the future every time you press a button.
- Safety First
As someone who’s paranoid about cords (I have a curious cat), I love that Norman prioritizes safety. Their cordless and motorized options are certified “Best for Kids,” meaning no dangling cords to worry about.
My faux wood blinds have a wand tilt system that’s easy to use and pet-proof. It’s a small detail, but it gives me peace of mind, especially if you’ve got kids or animals running around.
- Durability That Lasts
These blinds are built to endure. My bathroom blinds face daily steam from showers, yet they look as good as the day they were installed. Norman uses high-quality materials, like heat- and fire-resistant fabrics, which add an extra layer of safety.
Their Lifetime Limited Warranty is a nice touch, covering defects as long as you own the blinds. I haven’t needed it yet, but knowing it’s there makes me feel confident in my investment.
The Flip Side: Where Norman Falls Short?
No product is perfect, and Norman Blinds have a few quirks you should know about before you buy.
- Higher Price Tag
Let’s talk money. Norman Blinds aren’t cheap.
My motorized Roman shades cost more than I initially budgeted, and even the faux wood blinds were pricier than some budget brands I considered.
If you’re looking for rock-bottom prices, you might flinch at the quote.
That said, I found the quality worth the splurge, but it’s something to consider if you’re outfitting a whole house on a tight budget.
- Longer Lead Times
Patience is key with Norman. Because they’re custom-made, my blinds took about three weeks from order to installation. I’ve heard some folks wait longer, especially for complex orders like skylight shades.
If you need blinds ASAP, this might frustrate you. For me, the wait was worth it, but plan ahead if you’re on a deadline.
- Limited Local Availability
Finding a Norman dealer wasn’t as easy as I’d hoped. I live in a mid-sized city, and there was only one authorized dealer nearby.
If you’re in a rural area, you might need to travel or rely on online consultations, which can feel less personal. I lucked out with a great local team, but availability could be a hurdle for some.
- Motorization Learning Curve
While I love the motorized shades, setting them up took some trial and error. The app isn’t the most intuitive, and syncing it with my smart home system required a call to customer service.
If you’re not tech-savvy, you might need help getting everything programmed. Once it’s set, though, it’s smooth sailing.
Keeping Your Norman Blinds In Top Shape?
Maintaining your blinds is easier than you might think, and I’ve picked up a few tricks to keep mine looking pristine. Here’s how you can ensure your Norman Blinds stay gorgeous for years.
- Regular Dusting for a Fresh Look
Dust is the enemy of any window treatment, but it’s no match for a quick weekly routine. I use a microfiber cloth to gently wipe down my faux wood blinds. It takes five minutes and keeps them looking brand new.
For fabric shades like my Roman ones, a handheld vacuum with a brush attachment works wonders. Just set it to low suction to avoid pulling the fabric. If you’re consistent, you’ll prevent buildup that’s harder to clean later.
- Spot Cleaning for Stains
Accidents happen—my cat once left a paw print on my living room shades. For fabric blinds, mix a small amount of mild detergent with water and dab (don’t rub!) the stain with a soft cloth. I tested this on a hidden spot first to make sure the color didn’t fade.
For faux wood or wood blinds, a damp cloth with a touch of vinegar does the trick. Dry immediately to avoid water marks. This method has kept my blinds spotless without any damage.
- Checking Mechanisms for Smooth Operation
Norman’s motorized systems are reliable, but they need occasional love. I check the remote batteries every six months to avoid surprises. For cordless or wand-operated blinds, give the mechanisms a quick once-over to ensure they’re moving smoothly.
If anything feels sticky, a tiny drop of silicone lubricant on the moving parts can help. I had a slight squeak in one wand, and this fixed it instantly. Just don’t overdo it—less is more.
- Avoiding Harsh Chemicals
You might be tempted to grab a strong cleaner for tough stains, but resist. Harsh chemicals can strip finishes or discolor fabrics. Stick to mild soap or vinegar solutions.
I learned this the hard way when a friend used a bleach-based cleaner on her blinds and ended up with faded spots. Norman’s materials are durable, but they’re not invincible, so treat them gently.
- Professional Cleaning for Deep Refreshes
If your blinds need a serious refresh, consider a professional cleaning service every few years. I haven’t done this yet, but my dealer mentioned that Norman’s fabrics and finishes respond well to professional care, especially for intricate shades like Roman or honeycomb styles.
It’s a bit of an investment, but it can extend the life of your blinds significantly.
How Norman Stacks Up Against The Competition?
Choosing blinds is like picking a car—you want the best fit for your needs and budget. I looked at Graber Window Blinds, Stoneside Blinds and Shades, and Beltway Blinds before settling on Norman. Here’s how they compare based on my research and experience.
- Graber Window Blinds: Affordable Versatility
Graber is a solid choice if you’re watching your wallet.
Their range is impressive, from budget-friendly vinyl blinds to high-end drapes.
I considered Graber’s cellular shades for my bedroom because they’re known for energy efficiency, which is great for keeping heating bills down.
Their motorization app is user-friendly, and they use Somfy motors, which are reliable but not as quiet as Norman’s.
However, I found Graber’s quality inconsistent. Some users report issues with cordless mechanisms breaking after a couple of years, which made me nervous.
Graber’s customization is decent, but it doesn’t match Norman’s attention to detail or material quality. If you’re after affordability and don’t mind potential maintenance, Graber’s a good pick, but Norman feels more premium.
- Stoneside Blinds and Shades: Luxury at a Cost
Stoneside is all about high-end vibes. Their blinds and shades scream luxury, with a focus on custom designs and professional installation. I was tempted by their sleek roller shades, which have gorgeous fabric options.
Stoneside’s in-home consultations are top-notch—they send a designer to your house, which is great if you’re indecisive. But the price? Ouch. Their quotes were significantly higher than Norman’s, and I didn’t see enough difference in quality to justify it.
Plus, their motorization options are limited compared to Norman’s smart features. If you want white-glove service and don’t mind paying for it, Stoneside is great, but Norman gives you similar quality for less.
- Beltway Blinds: Local but Limited
Beltway Blinds is a smaller, regional player, which appealed to me because I like supporting local businesses.
They offer a mix of brands, including some Graber products, and their customer service is personal and responsive.
I called them for a quote, and the rep was super friendly, but their selection felt limited compared to Norman’s.
They don’t have the same level of smart-home integration, and their customization options are narrower.
Beltway’s pricing was competitive, but I noticed their warranties weren’t as comprehensive as Norman’s Lifetime Limited Warranty. If you’re in their service area and want hands-on support, Beltway’s fine, but Norman’s broader range and tech edge won me over.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Absolutely, Norman is a fantastic brand for blinds. From my experience, their craftsmanship is top-tier, with durable materials and innovative designs. The customization options let you tailor blinds to your exact needs, and their smart features are a huge plus for tech lovers. While they’re pricier than budget brands, the quality and warranty make them worth it. If you want blinds that look great and last, Norman’s a safe bet.
Norman’s reputation speaks for itself. They’ve been a leader in window treatments for decades, and it’s easy to see why. Their focus on in-house manufacturing ensures consistent quality, and their range—from faux wood blinds to motorized shades—is hard to beat. I’ve found their products reliable and stylish, though the cost and lead times might not suit everyone. Overall, Norman’s a brand you can trust for premium window treatments.
Norman Blinds are made by Norman Window Fashions, a company with over 40 years in the industry. They’re known for controlling most of their production process, designing and assembling over 90% of their components in-house. This vertical integration is why my blinds feel so well-crafted. Unlike brands that outsource heavily, Norman’s hands-on approach ensures quality and attention to detail.
Yes, Norman shutters are excellent quality. Their Normandy Wood Shutters, for example, are built with premium materials that resist warping and fading. I didn’t opt for shutters myself, but I’ve seen them in a friend’s home, and they’re stunning—sturdy, beautifully finished, and customizable. Norman’s shutters are also backed by their Lifetime Limited Warranty, so you’re covered for defects. They’re a worthwhile investment for a high-end look.
Why You Should Choose Norman Blinds?
I’m still thrilled with my Norman Blinds, and I’m confident you will be too. They’ve turned my home into a stylish, functional haven, with light control and smart features that make life easier.
Despite a higher price and slight wait, the quality, customization, and durability are unmatched. Whether you’re after faux wood blinds or motorized shades, Norman delivers. Take it from me—invest in Norman Blinds, and your windows will thank you for years to come.