But now what? Each of these window treatments has their own unique benefits (not to mention endless fabric, color, and function options), so how do you find what is right for you?
Try this: take one window (or set of windows) at a time, and ask yourself the following questions. This will give you an idea of where to start your quest for your home's perfect window treatments.
How much privacy do you need?
We all want privacy when in the comfort of our homes. But some rooms need more privacy than others (think ground-level bathrooms, rooms that look out onto busy sidewalks or streets, etc.). In these rooms, above all else, you want a shade that can function as a barrier between you and the outside world.
So, look for opaque window treatments. Roman and roller shades typically use vinyl or polyester fabrics that can offer full, solid coverage.
Pleated and cellular shades can also be useful in providing privacy, provided that they use non-sheer fabrics. If you go this route, I'd recommend finding shades with blackout (or room-darkening) fabrics and even a duofold (top-down, bottom-up) option. Duofold shades allow you to open your shades from the top down, letting light in at the top, while maintaining your privacy at the street level.
Wood blinds and shutters will also provide a highly private environment.
If you like the look of sheer window coverings, you should know that they are less likely to give you full privacy, but it doesn't mean you have to rule them out. Simply find curtains or draperies that can be layered over the sheers when privacy is needed.
How much light do you want to flow in (and how much should be kept out)?
In a child's nursery or a media room, you may want the ability to block a lot of light for easy napping or just to reduce glare. In a small room, or even just a lively room, you may want to maximize light to keep the area open and airy. Window treatments can achieve both of these things.
For maximum light control, you'll want to find shades that use blackout fabrics. You might also try sunscreens, which are specifically designed to reduce the glare that incoming sunlight causes. Metal or wood blinds can be tilted to keep the direct sun out, while still affording some view and light.
On the other hand, when you want to increase the light that flows into the room, sheer window shadings are a great choice. Whether you choose sheer blinds or a drapery sheer, the window treatment itself will accent your window, and the sheer nature of the fabric will gently filter light into the room.
What does the room need?
Did you know you can look to your window treatments as problem-solvers? If you have any of the following concerns, the right shades or blinds may help:
Energy efficiency
Did you know that window treatments can actually insulate your home, trapping in warm air in the winter, and trapping in the cool air in the summer? Energy-efficient cellular shades add an extra layer of insulation to your home, saving you money on energy bills. If you like the benefits of cellular shades, but the look of drapery-style fabrics, try insulating roman panel shades. Covering a sliding door? Try Ovation.
Hard-to-reach windows
Consider how you'll operate blinds installed on very high windows. A variety of technology options exist today that can help you: remote controls, timers, you name it - raising and lowering your shades can be as simple as the click of a button.
Small room
You can actually place window treatments so that they create the illusion of height and depth in a room. An above-the-casement mount refers to window treatments that are placed higher than the window casing itself. It will create the look of height that you are looking for in a smaller space.
Do you have small children?
Long draperies and dangling cords can be a tempting plaything for small children, and even pets. So choose a window treatment that doesn't put them at risk. Cordless cellular shades are a very stylish option for families with small children - without dangling cords, you can feel confident your children are safe.
Some corded cellular and pleated shades are also safeguarded with cord connectors - this component snaps open when pressure is applied to the cord loop should a child become entangled, keeping them safe.
You might also try cellular verticals operated by a tilt wand. Not only are these verticals child safe, they are energy efficient and easy to operate. And if they don't have weights or chains, they're safe for children and pets alike.
What's your design style?
Style is the fun part of window treatments. Here is where you can choose fabrics, colors, and styles that will add your "personal design factor" to the room. It's where you pick out window treatment styles and options that make your house feel like a home. But where to start?
There are a number of design styles; from traditional to contemporary, you'll probably find, that while you like characteristics of many of the styles, most of your preferences will fall into one category. Discover your design style and read about recommendations for incorporating that style into your home.
Have you considered the environment?
If you're committed to living an environmentally-conscious lifestyle, your window treatments don't have to be an exception. Cellular shades are energy-efficient and will reduce energy use in your home. And if you buy wood alloy blinds, or faux wood blinds, you can often get a product that is made of recycled wood.
If you answer those six simple questions, you're well on your way to discovering the perfect window treatments for your home.
Stacey Wiktorek is a member of the in-house professional home design team at BlindCrafter.com, where she provides expert decorating and design advice for anyone looking to beautify their home. For tips and home design ideas, or to receive their monthly Customer Club newsletter with trends, advice, and exclusive coupons, visit their website at http://www.blindcrafter.com/kristinasdesignstudio.cfm
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Stacey_Wiktorek
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