• Ceiling fan blades can create an attractive accent point in a room.Brand X Pictures/Brand X Pictures/Getty Images
  
  Many types of fan blades exist, each with its own style and function. The blades are typically specific to each make of fan, meaning you usually cannot switch out blade types. The way blades attach to fans is not standardized and is often proprietary; therefore, you must the style of blade you want when you initially purchase your fan unit.
  
  

Traditional

• Traditional fan blades are categorized by the diameter of the blade, known as the blade span. Blade spans of less than 19 inches work with various types of wall, box or industrial fans, while larger blade spans will work with ceiling fans. The pitch angle of the blade allows the fan blades to slice through the air and direct cool air in a focused direction. A highly pitched blade will move more slowly than a flat blade.
  
  

Industrial Blades

• Axial flow fan blades play a role in mechanical motors such as heating, ventilation and air-conditioning (HVAC) units; computers use small plastic versions.These blades have a wide span and can be situated vertically or horizontally. Propeller and submarine blades have specialized shapes to control airflow to create thrust. Industrial ceiling fans typically have three blades, which are generally large in scale to cool a wide area efficiently.
  
  

Decorative Blades

• Many styles of decorative blades used in ceiling fans exist to give charm and character to a room. Leaf blades are a common style, with wide blades that resemble natural leaves. Swept-back fan blades have a contemporary, masculine character. Colorful, painted blades decorate children's rooms with themes such as sports. Art deco style fans have a 1920s feel with retro styling.
  
  

Outdoor Blades

• Blades for outdoor fans are specifically designed to repel water and resist humidity. Always check whether your fan blades are designed for damp or wet locations, as they have separate categories, notated as "UL Damp" or "UL Wet." The blades should incorporate plastic or water-resistant materials to prevent deterioration.