What are the three basic categories of window treatments?
Window treatments are an important aspect of your home. Not only do they add to the aesthetics of your living area, but they also provide functional benefits that can reduce your bills and make your rooms more comfortable to live in. There are various types of window coverings that you can choose from, like shutters, drapes, blinds and curtains. Each type of window treatment has their own unique benefits, so when choosing the right one for you, it all depends on which room it is for. To give you a general idea of which window coverings are similar and which ones aren’t, here are the three basic categories of window treatments.
Hard Window Treatments
Hard window treatments include shades, blinds and shutters. These kinds of window coverings are the most common type and most people tend to choose them because of their versatility and functionality. They are made up of hard materials like wood or vinyl. Some examples of hard window treatments are shutters, cellular shades, vertical blinds and roman shades. Shutters are louvred or fixed slats that open and close using hinges. Shutters can be used for privacy, light management, or protection from weather, intrusion, or damage. Shutters also improve the appearance of your property and may be utilised both inside and outside. Next, cellular blinds offer a distinct honeycomb pattern that insulates dwellings while increasing energy efficiency. They are available in three sizes: single cell, double cell, and triple cell. They range in terms of light management, ranging from filtration to complete blackout. To insulate your home, the cells capture air and provide a shield between the interior and the glass surface. Soft materials such as soft paper, fabric, spun lace, and bonded polyester are used to make cellular shades. Furthermore, vertical blinds are less likely to accumulate dust than horizontal blinds since they stand vertically. Vertical blinds pull to the sides rather than lifting or lowering, making them ideal for side-sliding doors and windows. They are simple to use and need less effort than other window treatments, making them the ideal window treatments around the world. They are also appropriate for patio doors and large windows. Fabric vertical blinds minimise noise and protect against heat and cold. They are constructed of PVC (flat or embossed plastic), imitation wood, cloth, wood, or metal. Finally, qhen shut, the material of roman shades hangs flat and splits into horizontal folds when lifted. Roman shades provide light and privacy control, as well as insulation, and may be constructed of any fabric. They typically use a rope system that lets you control the height of the covered area. Bamboo and wood may also be used to make Roman blinds.
Soft Window Treatments
Soft window treatment, also known as drapery, consists of sheers, drapes, valances, curtains and swags. All of these kinds of window coverings are made up of soft materials and fabrics. Draperies are often sold in pairs and can be used to create a casual, elegant, or sophisticated aesthetic. You may draw them together to reduce light and promote seclusion, or separate them to have the reverse effect. They are available in a variety of colours, textures, patterns, materials, forms, and sizes. They can be sheer, allowing in a lot of light while maintaining privacy, making them an excellent choice for studio flats. Cafe curtains may be used to cover half of your window, or you can use two different ones for each side. Australian shades collect into scallops when drawn down and form tighter scallops when elevated for a more sumptuous and ornamental appeal. There is a vast selection that you can choose from when it comes to soft window treatments and every last option is worth purchasing.
Combination Window Treatments
This type of window treatment combines both soft window treatments and hard window treatments together. Combination window treatments have various advantages and are worth giving a try when looking for something new. Combination window treatments improves the aesthetics of your living area, helps with the light control, improves the energy efficiency of your home and hides the rails that come with some window coverings. If you are having a difficult time choosing between a soft window treatment and a hard window treatment, it may be best to combine both to avoid further stress and reap the benefits of both of them.
Purchasing new window coverings is a great way to not only improve the looks of your home, but also improve other aspects of your living area, like your home’s energy efficiency and how much light you receive from the outside. There are various types of window treatments and all of them are sorted out into three categories. The three categories are hard window treatments, soft window treatments and combination window treatments. Regardless of what you choose for your home, each window covering has their own benefits and has the ability to improve every aspect of your home.
What are the different types of window treatments?
Different types of window coverings may have a huge influence on your interior design, whether you're moving into a new home or redesigning your living area. A window treatment is a covering that you may install around a window to produce a desired look or functional impact. Window coverings, such as blinds, drapes, curtains, or glass blocks, can change the lighting, temperature, energy efficiency, and privacy of a space. Custom window treatments can enhance your home's decor while also providing functional home comforts. There are several window coverings that may alter the look and feel of a space, so choosing the right one for you and your home is important. Some important factors that you must keep in mind when selecting window treatments are the level of privacy they provide, the amount of light that it allows into your living space, how they affect the temperature inside your home and how they match your interior’s aesthetic. Keeping that in mind, here is a list of the different types of window treatments that will help you decide which one is the best for your home.
Curtains
Curtains are one of the most popular window coverings available. Curtain panels are often sold in pairs and hang on curtain rods. They are available in a variety of materials, thicknesses, patterns, colours, and designs, and may add colour or texture to your house. With that being said, this type of window treatment is versatile and can fit nearly any home aesthetic you can think of. The ideal curtains for your needs will be determined by their purpose and what you will be using them for. For example, sheer cloth curtains will not block sunlight or create seclusion and will instead add a more elegant look to the space it is added to.
Drapes
Drapes are thicker than curtains and offer additional privacy. Because they are double lined and thicker than most window coverings, they are also commonly used to block off light. Furthermore, this type of window treatment is great for controlling the temperature in your house. For instance, they can maintain the warmth of your home in the winter days while keeping out the cold air from outside and vice versa in the summer. Drapes are also more formal than curtains and are just as versatile as them, so whether you want a casual look or a sophisticated one, then drapes are the ones for your home.
Blinds
Unlike drapes and curtains, window blinds are constructed of hard and sturdy materials such as wood or vinyl. If you are looking for a more function-focused blinds, faux wood blinds are a perfect option for you because they are also very resilient and more moisture-resistant than most window treatment types. Blinds include slats that may be tilted open or pushed with a cord to adjust the amount of privacy and light in a space. However, they also come in cordless versions, which are perfect for homes that shelter pets or toddlers. Furthermore, it is important to keep in mind that horizontal blinds are ideal for tiny windows, whereas long, vertical blinds are typically used in conjunction with sliding glass doors.
Shades
Window shades are made of a variety of materials and do not have slats or vanes, unlike blinds. Shades composed of light-filtering cloth that blocks UV rays are available, as are bamboo woven wood shades. Smooth or pleated shades are also an option to choose. Roman shades, roller shades, balloon shades, solar shades, honeycomb cellular shades, blackout shades, and transparent shades are the most prevalent in the market. Shades can be motorised or manual, and their size can be adjusted to match the window.
Valances
Valances are beautiful tops that hide the hardware that holds your curtains, drapes, blinds, or shades in place. These cloth toppers are wrapped across the top of the window frame and serve mostly as decoration. It is very rare to see a valance serve a functional purpose because they don't possess the qualities that control the temperature of a room, block out light and such. That is why it is recommended to pair valances with another type of window covering, like curtains or drapes. Moreover, this type of window treatment is available in a variety of styles, including pleated, arched, and flat.
Cornices
Cornices are very similar to valances, but they have a box-like form that fits around the wall mounting of a window treatment. It is unlikely for cornices to serve any functional purposes, so it is best to keep that in mind if you are considering purchasing them. Wood and other hard materials are used to make cornices. Cornices and curtains can be used together to add a coordinated touch to a neutral area.
Swags
Window swags are long strips of cloth that wrap around a curtain rod and cascade down to the floor. This type of window treatment serves the same purpose as the valances and cornices, so again, it is best to pair this with a window covering that actually covers the whole window. For instance, since swags offer a more elegant look, it would be great to pair them with drapes. Swags soften and elevate the appearance of windows and may be a fun DIY home renovation project if you have excess fabric on hand.
Panel Tracks
Panel tracks are a fashionable option for tall windows or sliding doors without sacrificing any functional purposes that the other window covering types have to provide. Furthermore, they come in a number of styles and materials, so it is not difficult to find a set that matches your home's aesthetic. Vertical blinds may be replaced with these fabric sliding window panels. The panels are attached to the wall or ceiling and slide side to side on a track.
Treated Glass
If you are unable to find the optimal window treatment for your property, you can treat the glass windows directly. If you appreciate your large bay windows but don't want to add curtains or blinds on top of it, then frosted glass, stained glass, and window films are all options just for you. These kinds of window treatments help maintain seclusion without having to deal with the hassle of selecting the correct draperies for your space.
Window treatments are essential components of your home’s interior. They both improve the aesthetic of your home and offer features that help with the temperature of your home and the amount of sunlight your living space receives. The basic window coverings that are commonly found in most homes are curtains, drapes, blinds, shades, valances, cornices, swags, panel tracks and treated glass. When choosing your window treatments, you must remember what your home needs and the purpose these coverings will serve in order to purchase the right ones.
The Ultimate Guide to Window Treatments
Window treatments are the finishing touch that determines what kind of style a home has. They are considered as a necessity to any home, not only for the aesthetic but also for functionality purposes. From curtains to blinds, there are tons of options that you can choose that can also vary in colour and material. Selecting the right window treatments for your home is very important, considering that they could separate a well decorated home from an amazing one. Since the variations of window treatments are never ending, it may be overwhelming and difficult to know where to start your search. So, here is the ultimate guide of things to consider when purchasing window treatments.
Window Size and Shape
Arched, circular, rectangular, and bay windows are the most popular window designs. It should be remembered that most of the options are composed of three rectangular windows and can be difficult to furnish. You need to consider how the window opens in addition to its design, since this might determine the sort of covering required. Double/single hung windows, for example, glide vertically from the bottom up, whereas awning windows open from the bottom out. Furthermore, sliding windows open from one side to the other, while casement windows open like a door. All of these type of characteristics are important to know because they can greatly affect your decisions on what window treatments you will choose.
Purpose of Window Treatment
Before making any decisions, consider what the window treatment will be used for. Are they for appearance, functionality, or both? Knowing the answers to these questions will help you decide what is best for the home. For example, if you are troubled by the volume of light that enters your home and want to purchase a window covering that specialises in UV protection, blinds and solar shades are the ideal options. Furthermore, a new pair of curtains might suit your wants if you want to spice up the aesthetic of your house with something different. Additionally, blackout curtains and cellular shades can solve any privacy issues you and your house may be experiencing.
Window Treatment Options
Everyone who has looked at the many sorts of window coverings available is aware that there are several variations and materials to pick from. By understanding the different styles and materials, you will be able to choose the best option for your home. Curtains, drapes, blinds, shades, and valances are the most common types of window treatments. Curtains are often constructed of sheer cotton or polyester, making them ideal for aesthetic purposes. Drapes are commonly constructed of velvet, silk, and polyester, which makes them thicker and more effective in blocking out light. Blinds are typically constructed of wood and are excellent for controlling light. Shades are one of the most popular window treatments among the general public. They can do a number of things, like UV blocking and trapping air inside the house, depending on what type of shades you get. Valances is an additionional layer that you can apply to any of the window coverings mentioned above.
Cleaning Window Coverings
Dusting and light vacuuming on a regular basis helps preserve the quality and durability of your window coverings. However, once in a while, thorough cleaning is required for your coverings. For instance, to make sure that your curtains and drapes are really clean, a quick machine wash would be helpful. For blinds, dusting and vacuuming them can do the job, but to clean them thoroughly, carefully washing them with a mix of detergent and a bit of water is recommended. In addition, shades need constant dusting and light vacuuming in order to keep them in their best condition.
There are many factors that you have to take into account when choosing new window treatments. You have to be mindful of your windows’ size and shape, the purpose of your new coverings, the details of the options that you are choosing from and how to clean the type of window treatment that you are considering. By being familiar with all of this, you will be able to effectively choose the right window coverings for you and your home.
What Are The Benefits Of Roman Shades?
Window treatments are beneficial in any room, whether it is your office, living room or your bedroom. Although there are many types of window treatments, a popular option that can fit in with almost any room decor and is often recommended by professionals are roman shades. They come in many variations of fabrics and are versatile when it comes to matching the wanted aesthetics of your home. Not only do Roman shades look great, but they are also highly functional.
Here is an in-depth breakdown of roman shades and why they are beneficial to have:
Versatile and Timeless
Due to their unique design, they can fit the aesthetic of almost any home. Depending on the colour and fabric you choose, roman shades can be used for any setting, whether it is for privacy or for formality. No matter the room, from your living room to your home office, roman shades will complete the space.
Energy Efficiency
Roman shades are one of several types of window coverings that can help your home be more energy efficient. Depending on the fabric you choose, this type of window covering can either allow sunlight into your home or block it entirely. They also perform well in controlling temperature when compared to other types of window coverings. For example, during the winter, you can open your shades up in a way that will allow sunlight to enter your home to help warm your home and during the summer, you can completely shut your shades to prevent light from coming in and heating your home.
Safety
When it comes to window coverings, many parents and pet owners are concerned about the dangling cords and the potential harm they can cause to children and pets. With Roman shades, you can have the option to motorize the functionality eliminating the need for a cord for operation. Due to the fact that there is no cord, it almost completely eliminates the possibilities of any hazards posed towards children or pets.
Easily Customizable
Roman shades are available in a variety of different designs, each of which adds a distinct appearance and feel to the room. One common pattern that is worth mentioning are borders. Borders are a one-of-a-kind blend of several materials designed to complement certain colour schemes. You may choose the style, colour, texture, shape, size, functionality, and material of your Roman shades. This guarantees that they complement your taste and lifestyle, as well as the rest of your home's design. Customization also guarantees that the shades are a perfect fit for your windows, providing optimum coverage and protection.
Roman shades are a popular choice when it comes to window coverings for your home, they come in a variety of designs and materials that are versatile and timeless, making it easy to find the right one for your home’s aesthetic. Not only are they pleasing to the eye, but they are highly functional as well. They are less likely to pose safety hazards and they are also energy efficient. If you are looking for new window treatment, Roman shades are definitely a style to consider.
How To Find Out The Best Window Treatment For Your Space
Are you thinking of replacing your window coverings? Well, you should keep reading further! We know that your window coverings represent your home’s style and design, but that they also offer privacy, can provide that extra touch of natural light when needed and can be a focal point in any room. But, the most common challenge homeowners face when looking to replace their window coverings is, which is the best option for my home? This is where we come in.
Here’s how to find the best window treatment for your space in 2022. Let’s see which window covering suits you best!
Curtains
Curtains are a versatile window covering that can offer the perfect styling for a home. You can achieve almost any look with curtains, including a bold or welcoming look. It is worth noting that curtains have a say in the overall design of a room. For example, if you use heavy curtains, you’ll manage to create a sophisticated room. We recommend curtains if you want to express your personality. Living rooms can benefit the most from such window coverings since curtains look amazing when paired with larger windows.
Roman Shades
Roman shades represent a popular window covering selection with almost all homeowners. They are attractive and available in different fabrics and colours. These coverings are subtle and can fit nicely into any window area. Roman shades let in plenty of natural light while maintaining your privacy. We recommend roman shades for bathrooms, kitchens, or areas with little to no wall space around the window frame..
Cellular Shades
Cellular shades are an affordable and practical window treatment solution. These are available in different colours but are limited in terms of design. Cellular shades are simple and can match almost any type of interior design. We recommend these window coverings for areas that require plenty of privacy, such as bedrooms.
Shutters
Shutters are perfect for those looking for an elegant and traditional vibe. These can become a bold statement, too, no matter the size of the space. Shutters are usually designed in brown, black, or white offering a classic look. We recommend shutters for homes that have a more traditional or sophisticated design.
Vertical Blinds
Vertical blinds are affordable, stylish, and suitable for almost any room. The main advantage of using vertical blinds is the ease of maintenance. We recommend these blinds for large windows. They are simple to operate and can block sunlight when needed. Vertical blinds can improve energy efficiency when installed correctly.
No matter which window covering you have in mind, it is always recommended to look into different treatment options before making your final selection. Each window covering has its own set of advantages and disadvantages. You can choose the best solution for your home based on your needs and expectations. The window coverings in this article represent a great start if you want to boost the visual appeal and privacy of your home.
5 Types Of Window Coverings That Protect Your Home From The Cold
Window coverings provide additional protection against the cold and air leaks in homes. They can serve as a window insulation to maintain indoor temperature. If you want to prevent extreme cold in your home, shielding your windows with high-quality window coverings is the right thing to do. There are different types of window coverings but some are more effective against the cold than others. So, here are 5 types of window coverings that protect your home from the cold:
1. Roman Blinds
One of the most popular and effective window coverings is the Roman blinds. They are classy, beautiful and gorgeous. They complement and enhance the charms of the interior decor and enliven the room. Although most Roman blinds are made of fabric, you can choose thermal fabric to protect your home from the cold. They will undoubtedly increase the insulation of your windows and prevent air leaks.
2. Roller Shades
Roller shades are another window covering that protects the home from cold. There are dual roller shades that are multipurpose - one reflective side and the other side absorbing heat. The sides can be reversed to meet the weather needs. Turning the reflective side inside the house and the insulated side outside will prevent the escape of warm air from the house and prevent the house from being filled with cold air.
3. Drapes and Curtains
Drapes and curtains usually have insulating properties. They are energy-efficient and are suitable for protecting the house from the cold. Choosing the right fabric for the drapes and curtains will enhance the insulation of the home and prevent air escape. Thick and dense drapes are best suited for combating cold. Fabrics like tweed, suede and velvet are the most appropriate - they will prevent heat loss from the home and keep cold out.
4. Cellular Honeycomb Shades
Other window coverings you can rely on to protect your house from the cold are the cellular honeycomb shades. They are among the best window coverings with the highest level of insulation. They come with pockets of cellular shades with air trapped inside, which acts as a layer of protection for the home against the cold air. They help retain the heat within the house and ensure that cold air does not reach the insides of the home.
5. Shutters
Shutters are another type of window coverings that can prevent air leaks during winter. They fit perfectly on the windows and provide a seal to prevent the cold from filtering into the house. Once the slats are closed, the shutters will provide a faultless seal and protect the home from the cold.
Takeaway
If you are searching for the best window coverings to protect your house from the cold, the window treatments above are the best choices for you. They will improve your house's energy efficiency and protect the house against drafts and air leaks.
Why Are Energy-efficient Window Coverings Important?
When considering ways to make a home more energy efficient, most homeowners focus on updating their windows, doors, insulation or roofing, however investing in energy efficient window coverings will help create a comfortable environment, reduce your energy consumption and add aesthetic touches to your home.
Below we discuss the reason why energy efficient window coverings are important.
What Are The Advantages of Energy Efficient Window Coverings?
There are a variety of energy efficient window covering styles available, each offering their own list of impressive benefits, but no matter the style of energy efficient window coverings you choose, the below benefits are encompassed by all:
- Reduced temperature fluctuations indoors
- Reduced energy bills
- Improved comfort
- Improved interior design
- Improved overall energy efficiency
Depending on the covering style you choose for your home, you’ll discover an array of additional benefits and advantages, below we highlight some of these styles and advantages.
#1 Cellular shades offer impressive insulation
Cellular shades are designed with an innovative design, they trap air within their honeycomb style pockets, which can significantly increase energy efficiency. Insulated cellular shades are considered to have the highest insulating properties of any window covering.
#2 Shutters offer impressive cooling properties during the warmer months
If you’re concerned about cooling costs during the summer months, window coverings can save you a lot of trouble. Shutters are created in such a way that they can help make your indoor spaces cooler during the summer months, by blocking sunlight when closed. These are excellent energy efficient window treatments and can withstand a lot of wear and tear.
#3 Roman shades offer attractive insulating characteristics
Roman shades are stylish and suitable for almost all types of interior design, but a lesser-known fact about these window coverings' importance is that they offer help in saving energy costs. Roman shades are designed with a thick insulating material that improves your energy efficiency. Roman shades help keep warm air in during the winter and cooler air in during summer. As a result, these window coverings represent a go-to solution for a long-term investment in an energy efficient window coverings.
#4 Solar shades will prevent heat gain
Solar shades diminish glare and shield your home’s interior from harmful UV rays as well as reduce heat gain. It is important to note that solar shades do not block the cold. We recommend pairing solar shades with other window covering styles, such as drapes. This will offer improved comfort and privacy within your home.
Adding energy efficient window coverings to your home is a great way to reduce energy consumption and save on your utility bills. They also offer the added bonus of aesthetic appeal, increased privacy and comfort. If you are not sure which window coverings are best suited for your needs and home design, be sure to discuss your options with a window coverings expert. They will review the different coverings options available and cover all of the benefits, advantages and energy efficient properties.
Why Are Window Coverings Important?
Renovating a house is an extensive project with plenty of expenses, when creating a budget many homeowners overlook the incorporating new window coverings. Window coverings represent any material used to cover a window. Such materials aim to manage sunlight and offer privacy, besides this, window coverings can significantly improve the energy efficiency of your windows.
Below, we share our insights on why window coverings are important.
Window Coverings Improve Quality Of Life and Sleep.
Window coverings offer improved comfort since they create excellent privacy. If you opt for large replacement windows, plenty of natural light will be allowed inside. But if you’re close to other homes or traffic, you might not feel as comfortable as you wish. Luckily, window coverings can offer much-needed privacy while still allowing natural light inside. Using this approach can offer many health benefits, including improved sleep.
Window Coverings Are Energy Efficient.
Another reason why window coverings are important is the fact that they are energy efficient. Energy efficiency is important as it can help you save by reducing utility costs. If you have just installed new energy efficient windows, energy efficient coverings will help increase the overall efficiency. If your windows are a little older these new coverings can help you achieve higher overall energy efficiency. For example, motorized blinds or shades provide the ability to time when they open and close. This lets you take advantage of natural light while providing ease of access to immediate privacy.
Window Coverings Boost Curb Appeal and Home Value.
Another reason why many people consider installing window coverings is that they significantly increase the value of a house. If you’re planning on selling your property in the near future, new window coverings are an appealing upgrade. Well-designed coverings make your home look professional designed, and can help open up or elongate a room. Prospective buyers will appreciate new window coverings because of their energy efficiency and pleasant appearance.
Window Coverings Are Customizable And Functional.
Windows represent the central element of any home, this means that installing window coverings can completely transform your home. A professional window covering stylist can measure and design window treatments to achieve a stylish interior. There are many high-quality window coverings available to choose from in different styles and materials. Almost all are extremely functional and help you manage natural light and improve energy efficiency.
Window coverings represent more than yet another stylish object in your home. They can boost privacy and can help you manage natural light that enters your home. Window coverings are a must in any home and have the power to change the look and feel of any room. Discuss your options with a window coverings expert at RS Window Fashions for additional insights into the best window covering solution for your home’s style and needs.
How Do I Choose A Good Window Covering?
If you haven’t looked into installing or replacing window coverings previously, you may be feeling a little overwhelmed at the number of options available. Roman shades, blinds, and curtains all boost the architectural design of a window. Personalized roman shades and draperies offer a boost of colour and texture while supporting the intimacy of a room. If you’re unsure which window coverings are suitable for your space, you’re in the right place.
This article discusses how to choose a good window covering today.
Think about your home’s architecture
The first thing you can do is think about your house’s architecture. Depending on the size and shape of your windows, you will need a covering that matches your window style well. It is a good idea to consider the molding around the window and how the window opens. All these aspects offer insights into the right window covering for your home’s architecture.
Think about interior design and window style
Windows come in different shapes and sizes. They suit different purposes, some are fixed and others open. Depending on your window type, you can start thinking about window coverings. The decorating style should match the colours and patterns. Our pro tip is to consider layering that incorporates a shade or a sheer curtain with something that blocks the light. This approach offers privacy when necessary and natural light when you want it. Overall, it would be best to choose a window covering style that matches all your furnishings.
Think about the purpose of your window coverings
Another key element to consider when choosing window coverings is the purpose of those coverings. For example, if you want to prevent light from entering, you have to opt for blackout lining. If you want to insulate a window, you have to use heavy lining. If you want to admire the view nearby easily, you can consider roller blinds or roman shades. If you’re focused on privacy, blinds and shades are a top choice for you. As you can see, there are plenty of options available. Before you choose a window covering, you should research the topic. A window expert can offer guidance on the best approach for your home.
Think about your room’s purpose.
Every room in your home serves a different purpose, this means that each room has distinct window coverings necessities. For example, you are better off with a blackout shade that will offer a relaxing atmosphere in a bedroom. If you are thinking about adding coverings in a media room, you will definitely want to use thick fabrics.
Think about colours, patterns, and prints.
Choosing window coverings should be a fun task, for most people this comes when choosing between various colours, patterns, and prints. You’ll want to look at what your room is missing. For example, you can achieve a lively ambiance with colourful window treatments. No matter what you opt for, new window coverings will offer an entirely updated appearance to any room.
The above tips are a few ways to choose the right window coverings for your home.We recommend you set up a budget before starting your search for window coverings so you don’t fall in love with coverings that are out of your price range.
What Are The Names For Window Coverings?
Window coverings are versatile and available in different shapes, sizes, styles and materials. With a wide range of different types of window coverings available, some which you probably didn’t even know about, it is easy to get overwhelmed when trying to choose the right window covering for your home. To help you sift through the different window covering styles, we are sharing a list of the most popular window coverings available.
So without further adieu, let’s explore what options are available.
Cellular shades
Cellular window coverings or cellular shades are honeycomb-designed cells suitable for proper ventilation. These coverings are great for helping insulate your home from any outdoor temperature fluctuations.
Layered window coverings
Layered coverings are an interesting approach in any home. These represent a double layer of fabric that alternates between opaque and colored stripes. Layered window coverings are an excellent solution for modern homes.
Natural shades
Natural shades are extremely popular because they are made from bamboo, jute, or reeds. Such interesting materials are woven together to let you roll up or down the covering. These shades are excellent for creating a relaxed ambiance.
Roman shades
Roman shades are a must for anyone that likes to be able to adjust the amount of light that can enter your home. These shades are versatile and fold up into large plates to allow more light inside. As a result, the interior will look stylish and welcoming.
Sheer window coverings
Sheer shades are interesting coverings similar to traditional blinds. These smoothly filter light with a sheer fabric positioned in between solid-colored fabrics. These offer excellent privacy while keeping your room cozy.
Traditional blinds
Traditional blinds have different textures, colours, and materials. These window coverings are extremely popular and are used in homes across Canada. Traditional blinds can be designed using wood, faux wood, vinyl, or aluminum materials.
Sliding panels
If you have a huge balcony or a door with a large window insert, sliding panels are a great option for you. These coverings are designed to retract and extend horizontally rather than vertically. Sliding panels are an excellent solution to sliding doors or tall vertical windows.
Shutters
Shutters are extremely stylish and offer a timeless appearance for any home. These window coverings are available in wood and composite wood. They are slightly pricier than some other covering options, but will last for a very long time.
Solar shades
Solar shades represent a go-to solution for those who focus on energy efficiency. These are similar to roller shades, and they are designed with fabrics that prevent UV rays from entering the room.
Roller shades
Roller shades provide a sleek appearance to any window style. These coverings are created with a single panel of fabric that rolls up. It is a top choice for homeowners who like their home without window coverings but still like to be able to maintain their privacy and cut out the natural light from time to time.
These are some of the most popular window coverings available for your home. Each has their own sets of benefits, and fit in different styles of homes and decor design. We encourage you to discuss your options with a window covering specialist before choosing a covering for your home.
How Often Should I Change My Window Coverings In My Room?
A question we receive often from our clients is “how often should I change my window coverings?” Your window coverings do not have an expiry date and can have different uses and purposes from one home to another. So, there is no one size fits all answer to this question. While most window coverings are decorative, they are also meant to serve other purposes such as providing privacy, preventing sunlight from entering the interior of a home and some are even insulating. Curtains, drapes, shutters, blinds, and shades are some of the most common types of window coverings used in many homes across Canada.
Like other items inside your home, your window coverings are not intended to last forever. So, changing them after some period of time is to be expected. But how often should you change the coverings in your room?
The Average Lifespan of Different Window Covering Types:
Since window coverings come in a variety of styles and types, it can be expected that the different types of coverings have a different average lifespan. Below we outline the average life expectancy of the different window covering types.
Window Blinds
Typically, blinds can last for a long period of time. High-quality blinds have been known to last for 20+ years. If your blinds are well-maintained, and are in good shape you won’t need to change them for up to 20 years as long as you are happy with the style and colour.
Curtains
Because curtains are made with delicate fabrics, they may not last as long as some other coverings, this also applies to most fabric drapes. By the end of their lifespan, most curtains and drapes would have been showing signs of raggedness as they may be fraying or have begun to fade due to constant sun exposure. Even if maintained properly, you can easily tell when it is time to change your curtains by their appearance. Most curtains should last at least 10 years, higher quality curtains can last longer, while lower quality curtains will show signs of wear sooner.
Shades
The average lifespan of shades depends on their maintenance. When maintained properly, window shades can be used for 10 to 15 years. If you are utilizing shades in your home, we recommend replacing them every 8 to 10 years.
Factors that May Lead to Changing Your Window Coverings
While each window covering has its own average lifespan, you may need to change them before that time comes. Here are some of the factors that may lead to you changing your window coverings early.
Trends and Fashion
When it comes to home interior design, the trends are constantly changing. Updating your window coverings is a fairly easy and inexpensive way to update the look and ambiance of a room or even your entire home. On the flip side, if you decorated your home to match a certain style, and you are no longer a fan of the look, updating your window coverings is an easy way to fall back in love with your home’s design.
Physical Damage
If your window coverings have become discolored due to sun exposure or if they are broken, torn, warped or damaged in any way, it is probably time to replace them. Damaged and worn window coverings take away from your home’s aesthetic as well; the coverings may not be able to shield your home from sunlight or offer full privacy.
Difficult to Operate
If you have to struggle in any way to open or close your window coverings, it may be time to look into changing them. If you have multiple window coverings that are giving you issues to operate, it may be time to update your window coverings across your entire home.
When it comes to changing the window coverings in your home, there is no hard and fast rule about how often and why you should be updating your coverings. If your coverings are of high quality and are in good condition, they can last 20+ years with some maintenance. However, even if your coverings are in great shape, but they do not match your interior design, updating them will give your entire home a new look and feel. If your older coverings are still in good condition when you replace them, consider donating them or passing them on to a friend for continued use.
5 Frequently Asked Questions About Window Coverings
Increasing the appeal of your home involves both aesthetics and practical function. As part of the décor of your home, window coverings are equally aesthetic and significant. Before investing in these window treatments to spruce up your home, it is only natural to have questions about their benefits and installation. We have listed frequently asked questions and the answers on what you need to know about window coverings.
1. What are window coverings?
Window coverings are enhancements for your home and windows. They are made from different materials and can come in the form of draperies, shutters, blinds, or shades. Each of these window covers have multiple functions from enhancing the décor of your home to privacy and regulating light.
2. Are window coverings energy-efficient?
Window coverings are a natural cooling system. Shades, in particular, can help to control the temperature of the home. They save energy by maintaining temperature in your home.
3. What are the most common types of window coverings?
Faux wood blinds, shutters, sunscreen shades, solar shades, and honeycomb shades are some of the most common types of window coverings. You can select from a wide variety of window coverings at a home improvement store online or near you.
4. Do my window coverings have to be installed by an expert or can I just do it myself?
Most people hire professionals to install their window coverings but if you are handy with a few tools, you can install these coverings yourself. Just follow the guide that comes with the package. If you encounter any issues while installing your window blind, you can reach out to the brand’s customer support or get a professional to finish the job.
5. Which window covering is best for my home?
The short answer, it depends on you. The longer answer, there are a variety of factors like taste, energy-efficiency, ongoing decor, budget, and brand that determines what window covering is best for your home. It is always recommended to go for top-notch quality coverings from credible brands and distributors.
6. What kind of window covering will be best for a simple outlook?
Your choice of window coverings ultimately depends on your taste and style choices. For a generally simple look, consider honeycomb shades, shutters, wood blinds, and roman blinds. It should be noted that window coverings with plain lines can also work great magic for a unique and simple outlook.