Window coverings are more than just functional accessories; they are integral components that contribute to the aesthetic and ambiance of your home. From practicality to style, privacy, and light control, here’s a rundown of different window covering options and their respective pros and cons:
Curtains
Curtains are a timeless classic that can add a touch of elegance or maybe a little whimsy to any room. They come in a wide selection of fabrics, patterns, and styles to match your home decor and can even offer insulation and sound dampening. However, they can be high-maintenance, they require regular cleaning and may fade over time due to sun exposure.
Blinds
Blinds, horizontal or vertical, are a versatile, budget-friendly window covering option that provide excellent control over light and privacy. They’re generally easy to clean, durable, and come in many different materials, such as wood, faux wood, and aluminum. Blinds use to be equipped with cords, but corded blinds were banned in 2018 due to safety concerns with small children and pets. If your blinds have cords and you have little kids or pets, you should consider replacing the old corded blinds.
Roller, Roman or Cellular Shades
Shades offer a clean, modern aesthetic with a variety of options like Roller, Roman, and Cellular shades. They are easy to operate, provide decent insulation, and come in a great selection of colors and fabrics. Some shades are adjustable both down from the top for privacy and up from the bottom for a view, which is a nice option that other window coverings do not offer. On the flip side, they provide less precise light control than blinds, and high-quality options can be expensive.
Shutters
Shutters deliver that high-end, traditional look. They’re durable, can provide excellent light control and privacy, and can increase a home’s resale value. Shutters can be pretty costly, though, as their installation often requires a professional unless you are a die-hard DIY-er.
Solar Screens
Solar Screens are designed to reduce heat and UV rays while preserving your view. They are typically installed on the outside of the windows, and save energy, protect your furniture from fading, and are relatively easy to maintain. But they are not as visually appealing as other window coverings and don’t offer much privacy at night. These might be good for west facing windows if you get a lot heat built up in the summer afternoons on the west side of your home.
Translucent Window Film
Translucent window film is great for creating privacy without blocking out the light. The film has a static cling treatment so it sticks to the window without adhesive. It comes in a simple frosted glass finish or in patterns and colors. It’s an inexpensive way to create privacy and have full light, but you can’t see out through it with the frosted versions, and it doesn’t block out the morning sun if you don’t get up before the sun comes up, so it only works in limited applications.
When choosing window coverings, consider your home’s style, your budget, the room’s purpose, and the amount of light and privacy you are looking for. It’s also wise to do a little research on the different types of window coverings available and, perhaps, consult a professional to find the perfect fit for your home. Maybe, you’ll find something we didn’t mention here that suits your home better. Let us know, and we’ll add it to our list.
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