Window dressing is a tricky thing to get right. Before you begin it’s wise to seek professional advice. If you’re planning to make an investment in dressing or re-dressing your windows, it’s worth spending some time with someone who does this sort of thing on a regular basis.
Windows come in all different shapes, sizes and finishes so it’s important to pick a window dressing style and design to suit both your window and your decor. The right window treatments can also contribute to reducing energy costs and help significantly improve insulation in your house. As much as 25% of your home’s heating or cooling energy can be lost through the windows, which is why it is important to make sure they are energy efficient. While all window treatments will offer insulation, some types are more effective than others. Here’s a brief walk through some of the most up-to-date options:
Shutter Style and Sophistication
Considered one of the largest investments in window treatments, shutters can be customized to your needs and taste, thus be the most desirable option for some homeowners. Shutter slats can be adjusted to let in the amount of light you want, or made of solid panels that will offer ultimate privacy. Shutters are constructed so that they can be either open or closed. Shutters can also be painted in many different colors that will make them either a stand-out décor accent or blend them perfectly in to your room décor. These are very durable window treatments, and very easy to clean and maintain.
Shades of Today
The two most popular styles of shades are cellular shades and roller shades. Cellular shades are hard window treatments with a honeycomb design to keep the heat in, cold out and are considered to be the best aid in saving on heating and cooling expenses. Cellular shades work amazingly. They are constructed so that you can move the top down and bottom up, offering a high level of privacy while giving light a way in. With their rise in popularity, cellular shades are now offered in a large variety of colours, designs and finishes.
Roller shades can be a good choice for those bathrooms where the windows are situated behind the tub. They are easy to install and easy to manipulate. Perforated roller shades will allow enough light in while offering privacy at the same time. Perforated roller shades are popular choices for living rooms, dining rooms, and sunrooms as they protect furnishings and artwork while illuminating your living space.
Blinds: Darkness or Diffused Light
Blinds come in many different shapes and styles. Wider slats and vanes are most popular today. Natural wood blinds are very appealing to the eye. They are offered in different shades of natural wood, which is perfect for complementing interior window trim or furniture. You can also find blinds made of more sustainable materials like bamboo.
If you chose blinds for your windows, consider the level of privacy they offer and how much light you want in your room. Not all blinds will completely block out light. In your bedroom, for example, room darkening may be more important but in the kitchen you may only want to decrease the sun’s heat yet enjoy more natural light.
Today’s window coverings offer the perfect match for every treatment need, from casement to double hung, bay and bow windows and there are even coverings made specifically for door sidelights and patio and garden doors.
So get started on the right foot – get some advice from a professional to make sure the treatments you want to add will blend in smoothly and flawlessly into your home’s decor, fit your windows and doors correctly and have the desired aesthetic effect.