A window stack is the amount of space that is exposed when a window treatment is opened to its maximum height or length and the view out is exposed. Each window treatment, based on its materials and its function, offers varying amounts of light and how much space is created at the top or side of the window. For vertical blinds, the stack is to the side as these blinds open in a horizontal direction. For vertical blinds, the most common types are right or left stack; right stack blinds have vanes that will draw to the right and for left stack, the vanes or slats draw to the left side. Another choice is a split stack where the blinds open in the middle and when opened, and half moves to the right and the other half moves to the left. A center stack is also available so that the vertical blinds open from each side and the stack remains in the middle of the window.
For horizontal blinds that move up and down a window, the stack again refers to the amount of area that is exposed when the blind or shade is pulled up to its maximum height at the top of the window. A smaller stack allows for more light to shine or filter in through the window and a greater view to the outside is preserved. Some products inherently have a smaller or larger stack, such as roman shades which are constructed from a larger swath of material and might have folds which take up more room at the top of the window. Cellular shades and roller blinds neatly stack at the top of the window, giving a clearer and brighter view. Consider stack when choosing particular blinds and shades for your optimum light needs and privacy and what you see out of your windows. You might be the “let it all hang out kind of person” who savors sunlight or the “deep in a hole mole” who never comes out until night when all is dark and secluded. However you like to live, there is a window treatment to match your mood.
