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8- vs. 6-Gauge Blinds

Leann Patton

Aluminum blinds provide an affordable option for minimalist style window treatments. Larger slat sizes typically have a higher gauge, meaning the blinds are more durable. If you have pets or kids, opt for higher gauge blinds.

Woman looking out of her blinds from office window.

Definition

Men having meeting behind blinds.

The term "gauge" can mean different things depending on the context in which it is used, including the number of stitches in 1 inch of fabric in knitting, and the size of a shotgun's inner barrel. In relation to blinds, gauge is simply a measurement of the thickness of the aluminum used to make the blind.

Size

Large blinds on exterior of glass walls.

Aluminum blinds are available in three sizes: 6-gauge or .006 inch thick, 8-gauge or .008 inch thick and 9-gauge or .009 inch thick, although the 9-gauge is not as common. Remember that this measurement refers to the thickness of the slat only; not the length or width.

Considerations

Close-up of woman's hands closing blinds.

When purchasing aluminum blinds, the gauge of the blind affects its durability. A higher-gauge blind is thicker and stronger than a lower-gauge blind; making it more resistant to denting and bending. Thicker 8-gauge blinds may be more expensive than thinner 6-gauge blinds because more material goes into making them. It is recommended to choose the highest grade possible for maximum durability.

The Drip Cap

  • Aluminum blinds provide an affordable option for minimalist style window treatments.
  • The term "gauge" can mean different things depending on the context in which it is used, including the number of stitches in 1 inch of fabric in knitting, and the size of a shotgun's inner barrel.
  • A higher-gauge blind is thicker and stronger than a lower-gauge blind; making it more resistant to denting and bending.