Window treatments help tie your home’s design elements together. And while sometimes they don’t rank highly on our list of priorities when moving to a new home, we can ill-afford to understate their significance.
To this end, 7.0 Blinds and Shutters offers an exquisite selection of window treatments. Whether you need a free consultation before deciding which option to take or have already narrowed your options, the firm’s professional team can assist you. Also, you can explore their collection of shutters and Blinds Franklin residents love and take your pick.
But how exactly should you choose the appropriate window coverings for your home? Well, before hitting the market and snagging your favorite window treatments, consider the following aspects:
Table of Contents
1. Available Options
“Oh my!” You can’t help but sigh after realizing the myriad options available at your local home improvement store. If you’re unprepared, sorting through the maze of options might feel like a journey to an unfamiliar destination. That said, window treatments fall into a few basic categories, as outlined hereunder:
- Shutters – these comprise horizontal rails set on vertical stiles and are available in various styles, depending on the material used. For instance, you can find louvered or glass shutters. If you choose this option, have a professional customize your shutters for a look you’ll love.
- Blinds – typically crafted from wood or plastic and usually sport a slatted design. They also incorporate a cord and pulley system for easy opening and closure.
- Shades – these fabric panels are usually used to frame the window; you need a curtain rod to fix them. They’re also available in various types, including Roman, pleated, honeycomb, or roller designs.
- Draperies – drapes are affixed to the window using a rod with grommets, rings, or fabric sleeves. Some sport a lining to control light or enhance insulation. You may opt for custom-made or stock drapes to amp up your interior space.
Each of these options comes at a different price point. For instance, shutters are typically the priciest, with blinds being the most affordable. As such, it’s a good idea to pick an option that fits your budget.
2. Functionality
How do you plan to use the window treatments? Do you want to enhance privacy in your room, or do you intend to keep out the sun’s harsh rays? Your choice will largely hinge upon the function you want the window covering to perform.
Case in point, blackout curtains are ideal for bedrooms, if you regularly work the graveyard shift. Likewise, they work well in nurseries, if you have a little one. These curtains prevent light from streaming into the room, allowing you to get some z’s unperturbed. Your gaming room or theater can also benefit from this type of covering.
If aesthetics is a primary concern, then a fancy set of window treatments would suffice. In short, consider the intended function before springing for specific coverings.
3. Interior Design
Window treatments can cramp your room’s style, preventing it from standing out. Also, your preference should also take center stage when picking curtains or drapes. After all, you’ll probably spend considerable time in the room, so it helps if the draperies resonate with your style.
As such, consider covers that blend with your space’s overall aesthetic. Some of the other aspects you need to ponder about include your den’s color palette, preferred material and texture, furniture, and architectural style – the list goes on.
4. Window Sizes
Windows come in all shapes and sizes. And while it’s easy to fit rectangular or square windows, unconventional window sizes or styles may require a customized solution. As such, professional installation is a must-have when fitting large windows or those with an intricate design.
Also, measure your windows and ensure the window treatments fit the dimensions. And if you plan to hang drapes or curtains, leave at least an extra inch on each side for a more polished look.
You also need to consider how your chosen window treatment will open and close. For instance, sliding curtains or drapes will be easier to handle if you’re dealing with a large window.
Similarly, how your windows open and their design can influence the kind of coverings you select. For instance, hinged casement windows that swing outward go well with panel drapes, while bamboo shades are ideal for awning windows. That said, pick a window covering that complements your windows’ design.
On a different note, you can buy shutters and blinds in standard sizes, which makes them a breeze to install. If you follow this route, aim to balance form and functionality. But most importantly, ensure they fit – you don’t want excess material dangling around.
When properly selected and installed, window treatments can become a functional piece of art. This implies you may need professional help to pick and choose the ideal coverings for your windows. All the same, you can use this guide when selecting window treatments for your new home or after a renovation.
