Are You Redecorating Or Remodelng

When redecorating, you may be concerned about the type of flooring, countertops, wall colors, lighting, and appliances along with other décor. Part of the remodeling or redecorating process often involves choices that will result in having a “green” home, as well as one that is energy efficient. Window treatments are also important when it comes to redecorating or remodeling your home. 


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Things To Consider When Choosing Window Treatments

You choices will depend on several variables. Of course, you will want a look that fits in with your décor. The location of your windows will also determine if you will be getting morning or afternoon sun through them. 


The afternoon sun is also the hottest part of the day; you may want something to filter the light out to maintain a cooler room and energy savings from the use of an air conditioner. 


Of course, there are also moisture issues. Some window treatments are not appropriate for areas, such as the bathroom, that will be high moisture areas, which is where most of us have issues with mold or mildew. 

Types of Blinds

There are multiple types of blinds, but most operate on the principle of Venetian blinds or shades. There are those that can be opened from the top, allowing light into the room, while keeping the lower portion down to cover the window. Not all blinds have slats, but may actually be woven, or have an accordian look due to one solid piece of fabric.

• Venetian Blinds 

Venetian blinds are horizontal blinds which are made of metal, wood and vinyl. The traditional venetian blinds were made from metal. The blinds are raised and lowered, using a cords, while the slats are opened and closed by the way of a vertical bar, hanging from a hook, by turning it. Venetian blinds can be opened to allow natural light in, while preventing those from outdoors from looking inside.

• Vertical Blinds

 Vertical blinds are much like venetian blinds. However, the major difference is that the slats hang vertically rather than horizontally. The slats are also wider than those found with venetian blinds. Whereas the venetian blind is raised and lowered, opened and closed with a cord, vertical blinds are not raised or lowered, but opened and closed by the use of a chain. Vertical blinds are typically used for sliding glass doors, or large windows such as those found in a professional office.

• Wooden Blinds

 Wooden blinds are much like venetian blinds. You can purchase them in natural wood colors, or those stained or painted in shades of your choice. There are variations such as faux wood and bamboo blinds.

Shades

Pleated Window Shades

Shades

• Pleated Shades

Pleated shades, from a photo, appear to be like Venetian blinds. Pleated shades are made from a fabric, and are like an accordion. They do not have the separate slats found in blinds. Pleated shades, sometimes called “pleated blinds” come in an array of materials and colors. 


They are wonderful to use as a way to filter out direct sunlight, while allowing enough natural light into the room. These shades also help the blocking the effects of indoor lighting.


 Although they are decorative, and great light blockers, they are not considered to be energy efficient. Pleated shades allow the homeowner to look out, yet make it difficult for those on the outside to look in.

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DIY Window Treatments

Window Cornice

Custom Design Roller Shades

Fabric roller shades can be a DIY project. However, the downfall is that once the material becomes

soiled, it will need to be removed and replaced. If you choose, vinyl may be used in place of fabric.

Sliding wood panels 

Sliding panels are much like sliding doors which are decorated. Once the two doors are placed together, a mural appears. The panels slide on a tracking system. One of the uses is for those who may have a home theater, and desire total darkness.

 Window Cornice 

A window cornice can have several different looks. You can paint it, create carvings, or even use fabric. Your blinds or drapes are hung underneath. It works similarly to a valance. The window cornice is usually constructed with wood, but you can also create those from a heavy vinyl.

There are numerous window treatments which are DIY projects, or if you do not have the time or skill, you can also purchase roller shades, sliding wood panels, and window cornices.  


Of course, there are retailers who specialize in window treatments and will make custom made window treatments. However, typically the retailer will come out and measure your windows for a fee which will be taken off of your purchase price.  It is best to allow the retailer to measure the windows because if the measurements turn out to be incorrect, the retailer will have to redo any window treatments that do not fit properly.  If the consumer measures themselves and makes a mistake, they are ultimately stuck with the window treatments that do not fit the window properly. 

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Pleated Fabric Shade

Faux Wood Blinds

Vertical Blinds