Window treatments are not just about functionality but also about style and completing the room’s décor. Many types of window coverings can block outside weather, filter natural light, create a good curbside view of the window, and provide privacy to the residents. Window coverings are available in a variety of styles, sizes, and prices. Blinds shades shutters are the most common window treatment and many varieties in them can be customized to all types of windows.
Purpose of Window treatment
The window treatment accentuates that part of the room and adds color and flair to the wall. However, one must consider the different functions the window covering will serve to decide upon the type of window treatment, the fabric, and the design. Shutters and shades can be layered to offer privacy, add an element of drama to the window covering, and in the case of a two-tier window, it can offer complete coverage and more options to open the window cover. Some window treatments such as valances serve a decorative purpose and better cover with arched windows.
Here are a few benefits of window coverings –
- It regulates the room temperature. The room can be insulated in winter and cooled down in summer by letting a measured amount of heat, warm breeze, or cool air.
- It controls the amount of natural light you let into the room. One can regulate the room lighting throughout the day.
- You can add color to the room and the right window treatment can complete the room décor and create the effect you want for the room.
- With natural control of temperature and lighting, the house will be more energy efficient.
- Window treatments provide privacy and depending on whether the window is street-side or not one can choose sheer or opaque window covering.
Options for Window Covering
The different types of window treatment include blinds shades shutters and drapes.
- Blinds tilt open and close by pulling a cord or with a remote device. With their louvers and the various materials, there is greater control on how and to what degree the blind can be opened. There are horizontal and vertical blinds and because of the variety of materials, they last longer.
- Shades are a combination of drapes and blinds in terms of operation as they are a single piece of fabric that can be raised or lowered with a cord. They are available in different styles such as cellular, pleated, roller, or Roman to name a few. You can also buy them in materials like fabric, PVC, wood, bamboo, or jute.
- Shutters are like window doors with slats that can be slid open or shut. They can be installed in natural or faux wood material. Though there are many varieties of shutters, the most sought alternative is the plantation shutter.
- Drapes and curtains are fabrics used as window coverings.
Customized window treatments with blinds shades shutters
For the different types of windows, the window dressing can be customized. You can choose the fabric and design in different budgets without compromising on quality. There are motorized options for blinds, shutters, and shades that can be controlled remotely or with smart home apps and devices. Depending on the type of window, its size, and the side it is facing you can alter the blinds shades shutters or use them in layers.
Materials for window treatment
Window dressing is available in hard and soft materials. Generally, hard treatments are blinds shades shutters, while soft treatments include drapes, curtains, some shades, and valances. Roman shades and curtains can be layered for natural light and allow blocking of light. Blackout shades or combi shades for blocking light with soft material. You can use bamboo or basswood planter shutters or blinds for the same quality of light control.
Different window treatment ideas for different windows
Layered window treatments look great with arched windows or a double-hung window. For single or double door windows, with large wall-to-wall windows, you can choose plantation shutters or vertical blinds. You can use a sheer or solid material for your window coverings depending on the room in which it is being used.
