Windows are a viewport to the outside world, and modern homes feature more expansive window designs and placements. However, we can’t look out of windows 24/7 and certainly don’t want outsiders to see us through a window at night. Window treatments are a stylish solution to block window views when we want more privacy or shade. Many different kinds of window treatments have varying styles and functions, so choosing which treatments are ideal for your home’s style and function can be challenging. This guide will highlight some common, popular window treatments and how to decide what’s best for your purposes.
Fabric
Fabric window treatments offer a home an elegant and classic look, particularly for opaque draperies. Fabric can come in any color, shape, pattern, and length, making them versatile for those who love eccentric looks. They are usually hung up by a curtain rod.
Curtains
Curtains are more casual fabric treatments, as they aren’t as lengthy and typically aren’t lined.
Drapes
Draperies are the more regal, floor-length fabric treatments that often have lining and an opaque look (though this isn’t a hard requirement).
Shades
Shades are a marriage between fabric treatments and blinds or shutters. They often feature a single sheet of material fixed tight over a window that can be pulled up or down according to preference.
Woven
As the name implies, woven shades are made of woven fabric. They provide a soft, natural texture and can be as thick or sheer as desired.
Honeycomb
Honeycomb or cellular shades are temperature-resistant and add an elegant, pleated look to the traditional shade style. The honeycomb's name comes from the shape of its cells. Cellular shades are an ideal energy-efficient option.
Blinds
Blinds are made of flexible, light material in individual strips to form entire window protection. They can be displayed vertically or horizontally for different looks and functions. However, blinds may leak strips of light and, therefore, will not be ideal for those who like complete darkness or privacy.
Vertical
Vertical blinds typically hang from the top of the window and cascade downward. Since they are dangling, they tend to move freely when touched or pushed, and the wind can also cause them to move.
Horizontal
Horizontal blinds do not move freely, as they are strewn across the width of a window and fixed from both ends. However, they are made of similar thin material, and individual strips can be bent upward or downward for a peek view.
Shutters
Shutters are similar to blinds in look and style but are typically made of firmer, more rigid materials such as wood. They tend to be more horizontal than vertical. They can be adjusted, but less flexibly. Depending on the type, shutters can be modern or traditional.
Cafe Style
A cafe-style shutter only covers the bottom half of the window, while no shutters exist at all on the top. This style can add peak natural light while providing privacy toward the bottom.
Hinged
Hinged shutters open forward or backward like double doors and are prevalent in more traditional style homes for their charming European look. They can be latched in a closed or open position according to preference.
Split Tilt
Split-tilt shutters open at the top of the window, but keep the bottom half closed for privacy. This look is ideal for those who want natural light without sacrificing privacy.
Window Treatments for Your Climate
Window treatments shouldn’t be chosen based on aesthetics alone. Specific window treatments may be better choices in areas with extreme temperature fluctuations to keep those temperatures from entering your space. Below are some states with varying climates and how window treatments affect homes.
Maine
Maine is one of the coldest states in the contiguous US, and both windows and window treatments require protection from these extreme cold temperatures. Thick curtains can shield excess cold from a home. Thermal shades or blinds can prevent warping and help keep heat inside a home in the colder months. Cellular (honeycomb) shades are perfect for extreme cold. Pay attention to the materials your window treatment of choice is made of.
Missouri
Midwestern states like Missouri have a temperate climate, so window treatments should be prepared for both hot and cold in summer and winter. Curtains should be thick for both warm and hot weather. Lighter colors can reflect sunlight and, therefore, heat. Shutters can provide a sleek look to a home while providing more temperature protection. Large cities like St. Louis or Kansas City enjoy modern looks for their homes, windows, and treatments. Kansas City wood shutters are popular, as they are ideal for different types of temperature protection and can take on a rustic look. Wood composite is even better at sheltering homes from fluctuating temperatures.
Florida
Florida has one of the hottest and humidest climates in the US. Blinds and shutters are prevalent in most Florida cities, providing adequate privacy and heat resistance. Thermal shades, shutters, or curtains, particularly honeycomb shades, are ideal for excess heat. Solar shades can even store solar energy!
Conclusion
The right window treatments for your home should match your preferences in style, function, and your home’s climate. There is no wrong choice, but some treatments may be better equipped for homes with extreme temperatures or preferences for modern looks. Wood shutters can be versatile for many home styles, and composite wood can be great for extreme temperatures. Depending on color and thickness, fabric drapes or curtains can create an elegant or simple look. Blinds add privacy and a clean, neutral look to a home.