A Buyer’s Guide To Window Treatments
Window treatments refer to any covering that can be applied to the inside of windows and frames, and is synonymous with the terms “window coverings” and “window dressings”. Blinds, shades, curtains, shutters, and valances are all types of window treatments. There is both a functional and decorative element to window treatments. Although, their main functional purpose is to provide privacy and filter light, they have evolved so aesthetically that, for many people, the term window treatments can really be thought of today as the decorative approach or process of dressing up windows.
Window treatments and hardware accessories come in a wide array of colors, shapes, patterns, and materials that can offer infinite possibilities for enhancing the style and transforming the ambience of any room’s décor. Applying window treatments is a terrific way to add a touch of luxury, elegance, and fun to any space while still maintaining functionality.
When shopping for the best window treatments it is important to consider a few things that can really help make your final buying decision easier. Some of the more important things to consider before you set out to purchase your window treatments are: What are the different types of window treatments available? How much should you spend? Where are the best places to buy window treatments? How to measure and install your window treatments?
Types of Window Treatments
Blinds – A very popular type of window treatment because of their versatility and durability. Blinds can be vertical or horizontal and come in variety of options, such as wood, faux, vertical, aluminum, and vinyl.
Wood Blinds – Wood blinds are constructed from 100% natural wood and can be stained or painted. Wood blinds are very durable and come in a variety of different colors. Solid wood blinds can add a touch of luxury to any room or office.
Faux Blinds – Faux blinds are made with synthetic material or composite wood and can be up to 20% to 25% cheaper than real wood blinds, but look just as nice. Faux binds are very durable and easy to clean.
Vertical Blinds – Vertical blinds are the preferred window treatments for sliding glass doors and larger windows. They usually come in a smooth or embossed material. They are energy efficient and can be adjusted for maximum light and privacy control. They are very easy to clean and suit just about any décor.
Aluminum Blinds – Aluminum blinds are referred to as mini blinds or venetian blinds. They are extremely durable and do not bend so they can last a long time. They are very easy to maintain and are relatively inexpensive.
Vinyl Blinds – Vinyl blinds are extremely versatile and the cheapest type of blind available. They can flex and bend so they are a popular choice for kid’s rooms and high traffic rooms and are relatively maintenance free.
Curtains – Curtains are available in a wide variety of colors, fabrics and prints and are a popular choice for any room. Curtains can be purchased at yard sales, department stores, through catalogs and online and can range from relatively inexpensive to quite expensive depending on the material and style. Curtains make great kitchen window treatments and kid’s window treatments because they can be washed or dry-cleaned.
Valances – Valances are short coverings designed to cover up the top of a window and its hardware. They can be used by themselves to allow in maximum light or can compliment curtains, blinds or shades.
Shades – Shades are typically see through and offer very good light and privacy controls and are energy efficient. You can control how much light comes in or stays out. There are four main types: cellular shades, pleated shades, roller shades, and roman shades.
Cellular Shades – The most popular type of shade on the market because they are energy efficient and less expensive than other types of shades. They are made from polyester and come in several sizes and options including cordless and motorized.
Pleated Shades – Pleated shades are very similar to cellular shades, but offer more unique types of fabric that allow light to filter in. They come in a large variety of colors and textures compared to cellular shades.
Roller Shades – Designed to go up and down on a roller and are typically made with a light filtering or darkening fabric. They can be spring loaded or operated by using a cord loop system.
Roman Shades – The most elegant and are of higher quality and come in a variety of styles from more traditional to very modern and unique.
Shutters – Shutters are considered to be an investment that may even increase the value of your home because they provide insulation and are permanent. They can be made of genuine wood, plastic or vinyl and come in a variety of colors, such as oak, cherry and mahogany. High quality shutters can last for many years.
How Much to Spend on Window Treatments
The cost of window treatments varies and depends on the particular size, quality, style and number of windows that need dressing. The price of window coverings can range from just a few dollars for off the shelf curtains to several hundreds of dollars or more for custom window treatments. Consumers with larger budgets will enjoy a greater variety of options to choose from, higher quality, and a more exact cut and fit. However, that is not to say that you need to spend a fortune to find desirable window treatments. Some other things that can affect pricing is the design style you are trying to achieve, how frequently you plan to change out your window dressings, and where to buy your window treatments.
Where to Buy Your Window Treatments
The internet is a great place to search for and buy your window treatment collection. Because there is not as much overhead associated with brick and mortar establishments, if you look hard, you can really find good deals and enjoy considerable discounts. Another advantage to browsing online is that you can read customers’ reviews of the company, the product and its customer service. A lot of online companies even offer free shipping. One turn off to purchasing online companies is that they may require that a minimum order be placed before the order will be processed. Chain department stores and home-improvement warehouses are also really good places to purchase your window coverings. Being in a physical store will allow you the opportunity to talk with a knowledgeable salesperson and to actually take the time to see and feel various fabrics and materials to help you make the best possible selection.
Measuring and Installation Tips
When setting out to measure your windows, here’s what you will need to have handy:
- Ladder or step stool
- Tape Measure
- Pen or Pencil
- Paper
Be sure to measure each and every window. Don’t measure one window and then assume all the other windows will be the same size; there can be slight size differences from window to window. Always measure and refer to measurements in inches and state the width first and height second.
Blind measurements are done in 1/8th of an inch. When mounting blinds or shades on the inside round down to the nearest 1/8 and round up for outside measurements.
Be sure to have a second person assist you in measuring and installing larger and more unusual window treatments, such as arched window, sky window, or bay window treatments.
Installation instructions vary depending on the particular type of window treatments purchased. Carefully read the installation instructions to ensure no parts are missing and that you are comfortable with the instructions before proceeding. Don’t hesitate to contact customer service for support. And, if you’re really having trouble and you can afford it, consider hiring a handy man or professional installer.
Browsing home décor catalogs or magazines is a great means for getting window treatment ideas, especially if you’re looking for a particular theme or style or just want to brainstorm a collection of ideas. Curtains or shades with prints on them make wonderful kids window treatments. Whether you’re looking to decorate a kid’s room, bedroom, living room, kitchen, or bathroom, the possibilities are enormous.
If you’re looking to compliment a newly remodeled room or just want to add some personality to a space without having to paint or buy new furniture, applying window treatments is a terrific way to achieve your design goals and dreams. With the vast variety of materials available to consumers, changing the look and feel of a room can be easy, fun and rewarding.
Searching for the perfect window treatments that fit your personal needs and style can prove to be somewhat of a challenging and even overwhelming process for some people, but it doesn’t have to be that way. Just take your time to decide exactly what you want to achieve, do your research, and then sit back, relax, and enjoy you’re beautiful new window treatments.