Window treatments are a big investment, and choosing the right ones can make a huge difference in creating a comfortable, stylish, and energy efficient home. So, before you jump in and purchase what you think you need, it’s best to do some research on the many window treatment options that are available to make sure you get what’s best suited for your space.
Below, five important factors to consider before buying window treatments.
Light exposure. The direction the windows in your home face will play a major role in deciding which types of window treatments your need. If the master bedroom has a bank of east-facing windows, you’ll likely want to invest in complete light-blocking shades (lest you enjoy waking up at 5:30 a.m. with the summer sun). In rooms that face north, on the other hand, and tend to be darker, a better option would be a semi-opaque, light filtering shade, which would offer privacy without blocking out what little natural light the room had.
Energy efficiency. If you dread the day your heating bill comes each month, consider installing energy efficient window treatments, which can drastically cut down on energy loss through window panes and reduce heating and cooling bills. Good choices for energy efficient window treatments include honeycomb shades, lined drapery, and plantation shutters.
Style. Different window treatments fit better, stylistically, with certain homes than others do. Wooden blinds might work beautifully in a traditional home, but feel too heavy for a modern, minimalist space, which might be better suited for simple, no frills roller shades. Something else to consider is whether or not your windows will require two separate treatments: formal living and dining rooms might require the function of honeycomb shades and the lush look of drapery, too.
Safety. Homes with pets and young children require special attention to safety when buying window treatments. If you’re a parent, look for cordless blinds, shades, and curtains to prevent potential strangulation and entrapment hazards.
Technology. Did you know that you can program your window treatments to open and close as the sun moves around your home? Or for the time you wake up in the morning and go to bed at night? Well, you can. Motorized window treatments, and window treatment apps and programs can offer conveniences as simple as remote-controlled operation, or as complex as complete programming and customization of when your window coverings opens and close throughout the day.
Still have questions about the best window treatments for your home? Get in touch with The Shade Company to schedule a complimentary in home consultation with one of our window treatment experts.
