One of the most exciting tasks in designing a new home is choosing window treatments. Nevertheless, even if you are sprucing up old living space, selecting a new window treatment makes a whole world of difference. You can give a drab, unexciting room a new lease on life with just the right window treatment.
These days, when you can easily order drapes online, there is no reason at all not to consider taking on a mini-home redesign project. Refurbishing your home window treatments does not necessarily require big bucks. All it takes is a little imagination and knowledge on which type of window treatment will fit your windows best.
Types Of Window Treatment
So just what are the choices when it comes to window treatments? Many homeowners are still confused about the many selections that they encounter online or in magazines. Some people freely interchange the words “drapes” and “curtains,” not knowing that they are often considered as two different types of treatments. The same is true for “shades” and “blinds.”
Even if you are employing the help of a professional such as an interior designer or interior decorator, it pays to know the different types of window treatments to make informed decisions. After all, much time and money can be saved if you know what you want and what suits your home best.
Curtains vs. Drapes
Curtains and drapes are window coverings made of fabric. They are hung from the ceiling area using hardware like hooks, rods, or other similar implements. The difference is that curtains are usually more basic in function and design, while drapes may be more elaborate and dramatic.
Curtains are commonly constructed with two panels of fabric that open in the middle. They also come in various lengths and widths and are a popular choice for their versatility. Drapes, on the other hand, typically consist of more than one layer. A lining is usually made of heavy fabric that substantially or completely blocks out light. Drapes are often exaggerated in length, sometimes extending beyond the floor, allowing the fabric to puddle.
Curtains are thus more practical, while drapes are preferred for a more dramatic and luxurious look. Curtains also utilize sheer fabrics, while drapes use heavier fabrics such as damask, heavy silk, or velvet. In addition, curtains can be part of the layers of drapes. As such, the two can also be combined for a truly singular look and feel.
Shades vs. Blinds
Shades are also made of fabric—either sheer to allow sunlight into the room or heavy to block it out. Shades usually employ a mechanism like a cord, roller, or pulley that allows the user to control the way the fabric hangs over the window, thus controlling as well the amount of light coming in. Blinds serve a similar function of regulating the amount of light preferred by the room’s occupant through the use of a mechanism. However, it is usually made of materials other than fabric. Popular examples are wood, plastic/vinyl, or aluminum.
While shades usually roll up fabric to allow sunlight in, blinds are composed of slats or louvers that open or close to achieve the same function. However, if you wish to access the window, you may also need to roll up the blinds. Some cleverly designed shades mimic the horizontal slats of blinds, allowing light through when the darkened fabric strips align and completely blocking light when the strips are positioned in an alternating fashion.
Since they are made of fabric, shades offer a wider range of designs, colors, and even patterns compared to blinds. The latter usually mimic wood colors, finishes, and varnishes for a more natural and earthy look. They also come in plain, solid colors.
Choosing The Right Window Treatment
Take these considerations in mind when deciding on the perfect window treatment for any room in your house. Of course, apart from design and functionality, the cost is a legitimate concern, too. But while some products may be expensive at the onset, their good quality may result in more years of service and, thus, better return on your investment. The trick is to find a supplier that provides excellent value for money. If you can find high-quality products at reasonable prices, then you won’t have to worry about breaking the bank or replacing shoddily constructed window treatments anytime soon.
