It is easy to get so caught up in decorating your home that you forget to think about functionality. This is especially important when considering various types of window treatments. The way a window functions in your home should be the primary factor in what type of window coverings to buy.
Things to consider when making this decision include:
- Do you need the window treatments to protect from sun and heat – the South Florida sun can be brutal during the long winter months. Proper protection can also help lower your electric bill. Another issue to consider is the protection of your furniture and flooring from fading. Some products offer UV ray benefits.
- Does your home have a zero-lot-line? If so, you may want window coverings that can give you added privacy. Opaque materials provide privacy when back-lit as people cannot see in from the outside.
- If you are hoping to sleep late in the morning, getting blackout curtains or shades is a good idea. These products can also help reduce glare and eliminate the penetration of natural light when they are closed.
- Are you hoping that your window curtains will enhance your décor without blocking the outdoors view? If so, you may opt for sheer fabrics.
It is also important to consider any access you will need from the window. Perhaps you have a pass-through window in your kitchen out to your patio. A top down bottom up window covering will provide easy access and enhance your outdoor view.
Sliding or French doors that open to the outside will also require specific types of window treatments that allow for easy access.
Function and Types of Window Treatments
The types of window treatments that you choose can make or break your room. Choosing side stacking curtains may look nice, but if you cannot gain easy access to them, you may find yourself reaching over and around furniture every time you want to open or close the curtains.
Part of the determination into the selection of window treatments has to do with function. Yes, appearance is important, but function is critical.
Ask yourself this question: what do I need my windows to do?
Yes, you want them to have visual appeal when someone walks into the room, but ultimately, they are there to provide a purpose.
It is also important to find out if your homeowner’s association has specific requirements regarding types of window treatments. The last thing you want is to spend money only to have to change out your window coverings.
Functions of Window Treatment Options
Use this guide to help you compare the functions of various types of window treatments:
Blinds: Many people opt for blinds for their affordable cost. Today, window blinds come in wood or plastic slats available for inside or outside mounting. The slats may be vertical or horizontal. If you have a small window, mounting the blinds outside the window frame will make it appear larger. When mounted inside, window blinds provide a clean and finished look to the room.
Curtains or Drapes: The versatility of drapes should never be overlooked. As with blinds, they can be mounted on a curtain rod inside the window frame or above it. For very large windows, some people opt to allow a bit of sunlight in over the rod, mounting it lower than the top of the window. Half-length window treatments on tall windows impart an intimacy into the room. You also do not want to cover a decorative arch or frame with a curtain rod.
Another positive aspect of drapery is that you can layer them using a sheer panel underneath a more decorative treatment. You can also place a blackout window shade or curtain underneath to block out the light and heat.
You can choose between side and center stacking options. With side stacking, you may have a more obstructed view on the side where the curtains stack when open. With center stacking, the view will be slightly impeded on both sides, but not as much as if it were all bundled to one side.
Shades: Speaking of shades, there are three primary types:
- Honeycomb or cellular – these insulating pleated shades fold down from the top of the window and can come with cordless, motorized remote control, or top down-bottom up options
- Roller – a tube-shaped roller at the top of the window conceals these window shades from view when in the up position
- Roman – these shades offer elegant folds
Layering light-filtering shades with blackout curtains will give you the privacy you want, but also allow you to filter in a bit of sunlight when desired.
Shutters: Exquisite wood shutters are the most expensive option and are typically built to fit your windows’ dimensions. They provide superior privacy and can help insulate your home.
Light-filtering drapes or shades provide a warm ambiance to a room by reducing the amount of sunlight that enters through the window. Sheer or semi-translucent materials work well for this window function. You will still be able to enjoy the outside view without the harsh sunlight coming through.
Another function of window treatments is to create an illusion of a window where there is none. Both shades and curtains work well for this function.
When looking at the various types of window treatments, keeping functionality and decorative appeal in mind is crucial. Stacking curtains over blinds, shades, or sheers adds both a decorative and functional touch to a room.
Please contact HK Interiors for more information about window functions and how to select the appropriate window treatments for your home or office. Call 954-401-8542 today for all your interior design needs.