So, you’ve decided on the reasons that you need window treatments (if not, read this article), but now you’re not sure exactly which window treatments you want. To choose the right window treatments, you need to be familiar with the types of window treatments that are available first.
There are two major categories that all window treatments fall into: hard treatments and soft treatments. Hard treatments consist of products made from “hard” materials such as wood, stiff plastics, or even metal. In contrast, soft treatments are products that constructed with flexible and woven materials like polyester fabric.
Hard Window Treatments
Blinds
Blinds are the most common window treatment today. The defining feature of blinds are that they are horizontal or vertical slats made of wood, plastic, or metal. The slats can be tilted open or shut for privacy, view, and light control. While being a cost-effective choice, they can be a little more limited in style and color options than shades or curtains. However, you can often pick upgrades to include more unique styles and appearances like decorative tape cloths or slat textures.
Shutters
Both classic and luxurious, shutters are a more enduring choice for hard window treatments. Standard shutters have door-like panels that can be opened or closed as well as louvers that can be tilted for light control. The shutter frames, if any, can be simple or as decorative as wood trim. There are even bypass and/or bi-fold options for larger openings like sliding doors. While being more expensive than most blinds and shades, they are durable and long-lasting.
Soft Window Treatments
Shades
With the widest range of colors, styles, and options, shades are the most versatile of window treatments choices. Roller shades, cellular/honeycomb shades, roman shades, woven wood & natural shades, and sliding panels are some of the styles in this category. Depending on the material and how the shade is constructed, shades can either be very cost effective or very expensive. Materials and fabrics are often available with degrees of opacity ranging from translucent sheer to completely blackout.
Draperies & Curtains
Just as shutters are to blinds and other hard treatments, draperies and curtains are considered the more luxurious and formal choice compared to shades. These also have a wide range of colors, styles, and opacities. Drapery panels are made from thicker, heavier fabrics (often including a liner) while curtain panels typically made of thinner, lighter fabrics that filter the light rather than completely block it out. Draperies and curtains can also combined with other window treatments to add more decorative flare or increase privacy and light control.
Form and Function
It is important to figure out the main function of window treatments based on the room or space they’re in. A bathroom usually needs privacy and a product that can withstand moisture. An entertainment space like your dining room or living room calls for treatments that are more decorative and aesthetically pleasing. A bedroom needs treatments that can give both privacy and block out light if you ever want to sleep in during the day.
On the subject of aesthetics, also consider whether curb appeal is more or less important than the interior appearance. Some treatments look great from the inside of your home, but can look less great from outside. If you have a homeowner’s association and neighborhood covenants, check with them to ensure that there are no restrictions on exterior appearances of window treatments. Some HOAs and covenants may actually limit you to having only white blinds or shutters only, especially on street-facing windows.
Budget
Last but probably most important, consider the cost and your budget. If you’re staying somewhere on a temporary basis like a rental home or apartment, it’s perfectly fine and reasonable to choose low-priced window treatments. If it’s a long-term or permanent home or condominium, consider a higher budget for custom window treatments with better function and style.
Just like in any other market, you get exactly what you pay for when it comes to window treatments. Blinds, shades, and curtains off of the shelf from Home Depot, IKEA, or Lowe’s are definitely affordable. They will work as intended, but they aren’t going to last as long or look as nice as custom treatments.
If you choose custom window treatments, think about the cost to have them professionally measured and installed. Custom ordering window treatments incorrectly can be an expensive mistake.
If you’re ever in doubt about your window treatments, please don’t hesitate to contact us.