Window Treatments

There are many different styles to choose from with dozens of different looks you can create. Here are some things to consider as you’re choosing window treatments for your home.

The Style of the Room – Formal rooms look best with formal window treatments. Heavy panels with sheers for privacy are a great, traditional look. Or, opt for formal valances over sheers, blinds or shades. Casual rooms can work well with nearly any type of window treatment as long as the feel of the fabric is right. Cottons, light silks and other casual fabrics are right for this style of room, though blinds, shutters and shades work well too.

How much light you want in the room – If you want lots of light flooding your room, covering your windows with heavy lined drapes is not the right way to go. For lots of light, choose window treatments that are sheer or easy to open and close. Blinds, shades and other moveable window treatments are the best bet. However, if you’re more concerned in keeping out the heat and cold, choose heavy lined panels that can stay closed.

How much maintenance you’ll tolerate – Blinds and shutters get dusty, and any sort of fabric window treatments will require cleaning from time to time. Keep in mind the amount of maintenance you’re willing to do on your window treatments before you purchase.

Your lifestyle – If you have children, it’s probably not a wise idea to hang long panels that require dry cleaning in the area where your children play and eat. In addition, if you have children, consider the safety of your window treatments. Blinds or shades with cords must always be kept out of childrens’ reach as they present a choking hazard.

Budget – Window treatments vary wildly in cost. Custom window treatments can cost you a pretty penny in fabric, building and labor. On the other hand, discount window treatments can often be found at department stores and even home improvement stores. These work well for standard sized windows, and can be used to make a window treatment that looks far more expensive than it really is. Even for custom sized blinds and shutters, home improvement centers often can save you lots of money by sizing standard blinds down.

Window treatments are a great way to add beauty and drama to your room. And, beautiful windows are an essential part of any home decorating plan. So, take time to consider carefully the right treatments for your windows.