In this blog we will give exclusive tips on purchasing new window treatments, the process of how it all works, and what to look for before you purchase a new set. The average home has between 10-15 windows. Some homes have more and some less, but the standard is usually 12. The most common type of window treatment you see in a home is sheer curtains, let’s start by diving into the most common types.
With the full sheers there is no gap between the drapes and the window. This is good if you want privacy. In case of full sheer curtains there is an option called pleated curtains which allow better view through the curtain.Pleated curtains also improve privacy by allowing light to pass but keep out any noise from outside.
Full Sheer Curtains vs. Partially Sheer Curtains
There is another type of curtains that may be best suited to your space like draperies, valances, cornices, or Roman shades. These window coverings are more than just for decoration purpose. They can provide added insulation to help you save energy, they also protect the area around windows from falling objects, and they reduce glare from the outdoors.
Choosing A Style That Suits Your Space
When picking drapes and blinds, consider the style first and the cost, then choose wisely. The style and color should fit your space and what will complement each other. For example, dark colors will work well with a light room while pastel colors work best for a bright room. A room with heavy hardwoods needs something heavier. It is important that the room reflects your personal taste as much as possible.
How Window Treatments Keep You Cool
Curtains block sunlight and heat from coming into your home. Roman shades and light-blocking blinds help insulate your house against cold drafts, which helps in reducing your heating costs. If there is no air conditioning installed in your home and you would like to save money, adding drapes could save on your utility bills because it will prevent direct sunlight from entering your living room. And if you are planning on having kids or pets at home it’s important to add drapes for extra security and protection.
Choosing Window Treatments For Windows With Different Sizes
If you have windows with different sizes, choosing window treatments might not be the easiest thing to do. But, it is very important to pick the right size for your windows. Choosing too small sizes will result in window gaps, which will make your rooms feel smaller than they really are while selecting too large sizes will let sunlight into the room making it extremely bright and uninviting.
How To Choose An Installation Service
A qualified window treatment installation service is key for getting high quality work done. If you ask to install window treatments yourself chances are you will get a sub-par job. Most people think installing window treatments is simple, however, it takes a lot of skills to create designs that look clean, modern, and sophisticated. You can’t just buy fancy window treatments and expect them to fit perfectly into every window.
Window Treatments vs Fabric Blinds
Fabric blinds are just about the same as regular blinds except that they are made up of fabric instead of wood. When it comes to fabric, it has many great benefits. First, it is the perfect choice if you are just starting out on your search for window blinds for your home. They are easier to install and maintain than traditional window treatments. Second, it is easy to change them if you want to switch things up. Third, it is cheaper than other styles of blinds. And last, fabric blinds are available in an extensive number of options and patterns so you won’t have to worry about repeating styles, whether it’s the color or the design. The only downside is that fabric is more transparent than traditional window treatments. It lets about 75% of light through compared to 95% for traditional window treatments.
1. Luxury Brands
The biggest trend emerging within the industry lately is that there isn’t as much value put on brands as there used to be. While some people might consider brand names synonymous with luxury, others view them differently. Some consumers appreciate the quality products and features of specific brands. Ultimately, they’d prefer to pay less for the exact same item. This leads to shoppers being willing to overlook the name brand when compared with other items. Of course, this doesn’t mean you shouldn’t spend the extra money to select a higher end product. To avoid falling victim to this trap, here are some guidelines to take into account when shopping for certain items:
When buying blinds, you should always compare features and quality between similar brands. If two models look identical, make sure the price difference is justified. Don’t fall prey to a bargain hunter mentality, especially when it comes to blinds.
2. Privacy Versus Light Control
There are definitely situations where you want privacy more than another. But for most homes, you want both. As with everything else, it’s very helpful to shop around for the option that best addresses both scenarios for you.
3. Modern Minimalism
It’s no surprise that designers continue to experiment with trends ranging from geometric shapes to color palettes that represent certain moods or personalities. One example is the new minimalism movement, which encourages simple decor. It suggests a streamlined way of living, with the aim of reducing clutter and creating less stress in our lives. In terms of blinds, the latest designs reflect this notion by focusing more on a sleek, minimalist style without sacrificing function. These trends have recently inspired many design trends, including the following:
If you live in a modern home, then you may find it beneficial to have blinds that better reflect these clean lines and simple designs. When buying curtains, go for blackout options if you want to achieve an all-black look. You could even combine blackout shades with light filtering fabric panels for a unique effect.
4. Smart Home Technology
I love the idea of having smart technology in your home, because I know that eventually we’ll have so much connected to us that everything in life can become automated. But in the meantime, let’s face it. The average Joe consumer probably won’t ever get his hands dirty installing home automation technology. And, you know, the average homeowner probably won’t ever need any of these fancy systems. That said, there are a few brands out there that are currently offering some pretty clever innovations aimed at integrating certain home systems with blinds and fabrics. Let’s check out a few of them before shopping for any window treatments:
5. Fabric Panels vs. Single Pane
This is a topic that often gets debated among consumers. Because, honestly, who knows the exact specifications of how each panel actually functions? After all, not everyone shops blinds solely based on specs for the product. Some people care about the overall look of what they buy as well! That said, you can usually find plenty of information online regarding blind specs and construction, making it easier to discern between products. Here’s a list of common specs for blinds and curtains:
Panel width: The width of most traditional curtains, whether they be Roman shades or regular sheer curtains, is typically 48 inches wide, although you may sometimes find 54-inch or 60-inch options as a compromise, depending on the length of your drapes. For roman shades, they’re even wider (typically 70 inches), so make sure you specify how wide you’d like yours to be when ordering.
Pane height: Most blinds will have either four or five panes, although you may occasionally see six or seven panes. Keep in mind that a lower number of panes indicates a longer shade, while more panes indicates a shorter one.
6. Shades, Grommet Vs. Tiebacks
In general, you don’t see many shades anymore, unless you opt for a designer version. That’s because curtains are primarily made with sheer fabrics rather than opaque ones. Even when a fabric is semi-opaque, it’s still fairly transparent. But regardless of whether or not they’re made with opaque or semi-transparent fabrics, you shouldn’t be worried about choosing shades over tie backs. In fact, tie backs tend to have several advantages over shades. First of all, they provide the ability to cover and uncover the windows while maintaining a fresh aesthetic. When they come down, they give the impression of a large open space. Second, tie backs are a bit easier to install. It’s easy to just attach them to the rod and slide them back up when needed. However, if you choose shades, then they require you to climb on top of your windowsills, unhook them, and slide them up or down.
7. Roller Shades With Hook & Loop Vs. Velcro
There was quite a surge when hook and loop became available. People loved the ease of installation, plus the fact that those fasteners would hold securely even on rough surfaces like brick and hardwood floors. However, you might also notice that, since velcro arrived on the scene, many folks have moved away from using them as window treatments. Why? A recent survey found that nearly half of people said they didn’t want their windows left cluttered with velcro (because they’d end up cleaning them regularly).
8. Curtains With Seams vs. Solid
You don’t often see solid curtain panels anymore. After all, they require a seam around the hem, which makes the product feel heavier and more substantial. However, it’s worth noting that it’s not the heavy fabric that gives you the most support when moving them or hanging them up. Instead, it’s the weight of the rod itself. If you use a lightweight rod, you can really get away with more modest material options. On the other hand, if you opt for a heavier rod, then it’s important to use something stronger like bamboo. Remember that if your rod is too flimsy, it could break under the weight of many curtains, especially those with lots of weight added through decorative trim.
Here are some tips for finding the perfect fabric combination for your window treatment:
Cotton blends are still the most widely used fabric combinations. You’ll find cotton, linen, microfiber, and a variety of other fibers and fabrics in their natural state.
Remember that your choice of fabric composition matters. If you choose a heavily textured material versus a smooth one, you could have a visually appealing result.
Some people find that sheer fabrics make for the perfect backdrop for artwork, photographs, and other framed projects.
Other fabrics that work well include leather, wool cloth, silk, silk satin, jacquard woven fabrics, and various types of velvet.
9. Glue-Down Or Tape-Off
When you’re installing window treatments, you get to decide how sturdy you want them to be. While some people appreciate the feeling of security and protection afforded by glue-down options, others don’t like to deal with messy edges and adhesive residue. However, many manufacturers offer glue-down options, so if you’re looking for that kind of security then you may want to consider them. Here are a couple examples of glue-downs we offer here at Shutter Guys:
10. Cordless Vs. Motorized WIndow Treatment Options
Motorized blinds are becoming increasingly popular, thanks to their ability to move effortlessly from closed to fully opened and back again. Some motorized options include remote control settings. Others come with timers and alarm clocks built right in to activate automatically at preset times. Either way, you’ll want to compare the pros and cons of cordless versus motorized options before deciding on a final purchasing decision. Cordless options are great if you don’t have the space or budget to install traditional shades, or if you already own a set of shades that you want to upgrade to smart technology. Conversely, motorized options are good if you already have your own shade system, but want to enhance it by adding convenience, versatility, and safety features.
Of course, no matter which option you choose, you also need to take into account the type of motor available, its power requirements, the number of batteries required, and whether it requires additional wiring.
11. Installing Treatments Above The Headrail
As I mentioned earlier, when you’re considering how you want to hang your blind, it’s also important to think about where you want to place the top. If you plan to put blinds up above the headrail, this isn’t very practical. This is because it means that you’d need to leave enough room between your shades and the ceiling, to give a gap that allows access to the light switch.
12. Making Adjustments For Different Window Sizes
Your window size doesn’t dictate exactly what you should buy. However, if you do have a specific type of window in mind, it’s helpful to consider it carefully before making any purchases. Here are a few things to remember when you’re shopping around for window treatments:
If you’ve got tall ceilings, try to avoid buying anything that comes with ties. Ties don’t look good against tall, ornate crown moldings. Instead, go with panels or valances. This way, you can have your curtains hang flush with the tops of the crown molding without having to leave room between the bottom of the curtain panel and the crown molding.
Try to match the shape of your drapery panels to the shape of your windows. If they’re too small, you won’t be able to maximize your window view. You want to make sure that when they’re open, the sides line up evenly. In addition, the height should also allow you to clearly see through the sides. For instance, if you have a slider with vertical slats instead of horizontal ones, go with an 84″ wide window. Remember that each inch adds approximately 1/4″ to the overall height of a window. That means an 84″ wide window would give you an opening of 83.3. You wouldn’t be able to see across the middle, since it’s less than 1/2″.
13. Make It Personalized!
Just like you wouldn’t walk into a store and decide on what car to buy based solely on its performance statistics, you shouldn’t make all of your decisions when you shop based on the stats alone. Just because a particular model might be more affordable doesn’t mean that it has to be yours. In fact, a person’s personality affects most purchases. Think about whether or not you can live with what fits your lifestyle. If you’re a planner, you might prefer a model that has more storage options. Or if you’re the kind of person who likes lots of accessories and is spontaneous, you might prefer a model that gives you multiple options.
14. Shop Around To Figure Out Which Is Right For Them
When browsing through various models of blinds online, be aware that you’re comparing apples to oranges. All brands are made with similar fabric, frame, hardware, and features, but you should only compare the ones that are closest to what you’re looking for. Keep reading to learn how to differentiate between the differences and figure out which is right for you.
15. Size Matters!
When it comes to window treatments, size plays a major role in determining comfort. For starters, remember that bigger can sometimes mean better. Whether in terms of how much sunlight your blinds block or how wide they are, having a huge piece of equipment is generally going to cause problems. In addition, your window sizes also determine the overall width of your blinds.
Think about which design you prefer, and then think about the available widths of your window treatments. You can use either inches or feet, depending on how precise you want to be. That said, unless you’re using a particularly wide shade, you will likely want to stick to an average of 60″ per side. Of course, if you go any wider than that, you’ll likely require two sets of window treatment to cover your windows.
16. Decide Between Fixed And Rolling Shades
While you could technically get away with ordering just one type of roller, it’s usually a good idea to consider both kinds. While fixed roller blinds are going to provide you with consistent results, rolling shades will let you adjust things as needed. Plus you can typically adjust the length of the rollers to get the exact look you want.
In addition, remember that you won’t be limited to choosing from just one brand when you go shopping for window treatments. There are plenty of manufacturers that can help you customize existing models that are already being sold to your specifications. After all, there are countless ways that you can alter the look and functionality of your current curtains. Take advantage of this opportunity to change your home décor up a bit without spending a fortune.
17. Check Online Reputation Before Purchasing
Since we live in a world that moves so fast, people tend to forget that when it comes to the internet, nothing stays the same forever. So it makes sense to check online reputation before purchasing. Just Google your chosen product, and see if there are reviews or comments posted online. These can help you decide if you’re getting the best deal possible or if your local retailer is trustworthy.
How Much Can You Spend?
The most obvious question you’ll probably ask yourself is: “How much can I spend on my window treatments?” Obviously, there are limitations to budgets, but keep in mind that no matter how you shop, you can save money by shopping locally first. When shopping online, you’ll first want to look at the pricing offered by retailers versus the competition. Then check out the actual cost versus your perceived value. Most retailers offer free shipping on orders exceeding $50. And if you call or email the retailer directly, chances are they’ll offer discounts and promotions in addition to free shipping.
Most retailers offer a variety of financing options, including cash and credit cards, which makes it easier for customers to spread the cost over time. In fact, these days, you don’t even need to commit to paying monthly installments on everything until you’re ready to pay off your entire balance. Just remember that if you’re paying interest on top of your regular payments, you aren’t saving money as much as you would through monthly installments.
Another factor to take into consideration when it comes to your price range is that some people only have a certain amount they’re willing to allocate for home repairs, remodeling, or decorating. If you’ve got that type of financial commitment to make, you might have to pick and choose what you buy carefully.
So, What Are My Options?
Choosing the right type of window treatments may seem daunting but, it is actually pretty easy once you understand some basic terminology and understand your current options. There are certain advantages and disadvantages to each style, and as long as you know a few facts you will be able to determine which style is right for you. For example, the cost and quality range greatly amongst one brand to the next; even if they say the shade is low maintenance, it may actually be more difficult to care for than others. Another disadvantage of most window treatments such as the ones mentioned above is the fact that they block light. Therefore, depending on your current lighting situation, you may decide to use a window treatment designed to block both light and privacy. So, if you are looking for window treatments for your home, it will definitely benefit your space to go ahead and try an interior designer. Interior designers specialize in creating custom designed spaces using their skills and expertise to make sure you get exactly what you need. They also offer advice on the best types for your budget.
Get A Free Quote First
There really are times when it pays to order online. That said, be sure to read through the order form carefully before submitting your request. Also, remember that you can request a free quote by calling or visiting a retailer in person. That way you’ll know the details of your transaction ahead of time, and won’t have to worry about missing out on any special deals or bonuses.
So, I Want Help Choosing My New Window Treatments. Who Should I Hire?
We are always excited to show off our hard work to clients and homeowners. We enjoy watching each person’s face light up when they realize we are helping them transform their space. However, we don’t take it lightly, and we pride ourselves on providing expert service. Whether you are new to DIY window treatments or have been doing it for years, our team of window treatment experts can help you make a decision on the best option for your budget and lifestyle!
