Window Coverings: Exploring Your Options

16 February 2015
 Categories: , Blog

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Window coverings play an important role in providing you with privacy, light control, and temperature control. However, in order to ensure that you are truly enjoying all of the benefits that these common household products have to offer, you will first need to ensure that you are choosing the right type of window coverings for your particular needs. Taking the time to review the pros and cons that come along with each of the options outlined below can help you to make this important decision.

Option #1: Curtains/Drapes

These traditional window coverings can be made from virtually any type of fabric, including cotton, silk, and polyester. In many cases, the type of fabric that is used will ultimately impact the benefits that curtains are able to offer. For instance, while silk curtains will provide a very elegant appearance, they will not do much to keep cold temperatures out of your home. On the other hand, polyester based curtains may not be very elegant in appearance, but they can significantly increase the energy efficiency of your windows when kept closed after sunset.

Curtains are traditionally rather affordable and can even be made on a do-it-yourself basis using virtually any fabric you have on hand. However, these curtains will need to be removed and cleaned on a regular basis in order to keep them looking their best. You will also need to replace your curtains every few years due to normal wear and tear.

Option #2: Blinds

Window blinds are perhaps the most popular of all window coverings. These blinds are available in a wide variety of materials ranging from vinyl to solid wood. As a result, these blinds will also be available in a wide range of prices. While options such as vinyl blinds will be incredibly affordable, more durable options, such as wood blinds, will be a bit more expensive.

Window blinds offer you the ability to easily control the amount of light that is allowed to enter your home, as well as easily controlling how much privacy your home offers. By providing the ability to raise and lower the blinds, as well as to use vertical slats to allow light to enter, these window coverings truly offer you full control. Add this to the fact that these blinds are able to compliment any decor and are extremely easy to care for, and it is easy to see why these window coverings are so popular.

Option #3: Interior Shutters

Interior shutters are typically made from solid wood and are quite similar to the shutters you would see installed on the exterior of a home. The solid wood construction of these window coverings allow for additional insulation and improved energy efficiency. This feature also allows you to easily paint or stain your shutters each time you change your interior decor.

While there are several impressive benefits that come along with these window coverings, the high cost and annual maintenance that they require have prevented them from enjoying the same popularity as curtains and window blinds.

The Bottom Line

The type of window coverings that are right for you will depend greatly upon your current budget, your ability to commit to maintenance, and your personal style preferences. For instance, if you are looking for an elegant window covering that requires a rather small upfront investment, the use of fabric curtains may be right for you. However, if you are looking for an affordable, easy to maintain option that matches with virtually any decor, window blinds will be your best option. Once you have made your decision, visit an affordable provider, such as Brandt's Interiors & Workroom.