Home remodeling plans are on the rise among homeowners who find that their old outlets, like the gym, are no longer an option. Of course, remodeling also means a whole new round of redecorating. That chiffon yellow paint worked okay when it was a spare bedroom, but it probably won’t work so well in your new home office.
Then, there are the window treatments. If you want an update but aren’t sure about how to choose window treatments, keep reading for a quick overview.
How to Choose Window Treatments
Window treatments often come as an afterthought for homeowners as they decorate. Yet, it often pays to consider it early on in the process. It’s not as simple as shades or curtains.
You must sort through a variety of options that we’ll cover next.
Types of Blinds
People often use the terms blinds and shades interchangeably, but they are different animals. Blinds use hard, adjustable slats to provide light control. You also typically raise blinds or slide them aside for a clear view outside.
Some common types of blinds include:
- Vertical blinds
- Venetian blinds
- Panel Blinds
- Pleated blinds
When in doubt, Venetian blinds prove a safe choice for most homes.
Types of Shutters
Shutters come in two main varieties: exterior and interior. Exterior shutters often feature louvered slats or panels and typically close to provide extra protection to the windows. In warmer climes, you might decide on installing plantation shutters to maintain the look in a neighborhood.
Interior shutters typically adopt the same essential look as exterior shutters but serve primarily to keep out sunlight.
Shades and Curtains
For many homeowners, shades and curtains are their first thought when it comes to window treatments. Shades and curtains can provide privacy, control light, and even act as an additional thermal barrier.
Shades and curtains require substantial thought. You must select the right color for the room. You also need a fabric and style that complements the existing decoration.
Cost Consideration
As you sort through the options, there is always the background question of the window treatment cost. As a general rule, wooden shutters will run on the high side of the price spectrum. That happens because you must typically install them on all of your windows.
You can typically get basic Venetian blinds made of plastic for a reasonable amount. The cost of curtains will depend based on fabric selection, style, and brand.
Selecting the Right Types of Window Treatments for Your Home
The question of how to choose window treatments depends on a combination of taste, the room, and your budget. If you’re on a tight budget, you’ll likely end up with simple blinds or curtains.
If you’re not constrained a lot by budget, you can get creative with more elaborate curtains, cafe shutters, or even exterior plantation shutters. Just keep the overall look and feel of the room in mind as you make your choices.
Looking for more home design and style ideas? Check out the articles in our Interior Design Tips & Inspiration section.