Choosing A Window Covering
There are many ways that you can decorate your windows. You have the choice of horizontal blinds, vertical blinds, shutters, or even roller shades, and that is just to name a few. Before you head down the road of confusion you should begin by asking yourself a few questions.
What kind of space are you working with?
Do not only focus on the window space but take a look at the whole room. It doesn’t matter if you are doing one room or a whole house. Look at the room by itself. Consider the location of the room. North facing windows bring in consistent light but could subject your house to the coldest exposure. For this you would want to consider energy-saving window treatments. They will also help with the heating and cooling bills since 40% of heat escapes through windows. That is something to consider in each room of your house.
East-facing windows offer bright light early in the morning. That means that the room will heat up quickly. There are options that will help capture the heat so it diffuses it before it comes in, such as cellular or pleated shades. Also, the traditional drapery would work well, although, it is not appropriate for every room.
West-facing windows are the worst for letting in the most light that is harmful. Rooms with these windows should be ones that block out the UV rays. You would want to consider energy-saving window treatments.
South-facing windows are the best for consistent, natural light. You want to have window treatments that let in light but also have the option for protection against the light.
What is your style?
The next thing you need to do is consider your style. You need to consider your likes and dislikes. Styles are always changing. What you like one day you will hate the next. You need to consider what will make you happy overall. Also, fashion in the world changes, so find something that you are comfortable with. Some categories are; Old American Style, Casual Style, Contemporary / Modern / Simplistic Style, European Style, Formal Style, Traditional Style, and the Rustic Style. These are the most popular styles that people usually go back to and are safe.
What are your needs?
Is there only adults in the house or are there children running around. As simple as a question this is, it will make you stress out if you pick the wrong one. When there are children around you need to think safety first. This doesn’t have to limit you but there is definitely the wrong choices out there with children in the home.
Another major factor is pricing. What is your budget? For the top of the line, most in-style window treatments out there, you could be spending a lot of money.
What is the shape of your window? If you have a awkward shaped window, this could limit you on what you choose.
Do you need it sound absorbent? Do you need it energy-efficient? Do you want it easily cleanable? These are all important questions to ask yourself. In the next article, I will go into each of these questions in more detail to help you know what kind of window treatments work for you.
