Your Guide to Choosing the Right Type of Window Covering

You might think that selecting a window covering is not a big deal, but when you explore all kinds of options available at your disposal, you will get confused and wonder what to choose and what not. 

I am going to go through various types of window treatments to make it easy for you to decide. Trust me, at times people confuse blinds with shades. Even though they are similar in terms of the purpose they serve, they are very different from each other. Therefore, today is the day when we leave all sorts of confusions and worries behind and choose the right type of covering for your windows.

Let’s First Explore Something Very Basic: Blinds vs. Shades

Let’s talk about Blinds and Shades first that how they differ from each other. 

Blinds are made of separate slats that are connected together. They can go up and down, and even left to right, to make it easy for you to cover as much window as you want. As a result, you will be able to adjust how must light comes into your room. Mostly, blinds come with a cord and a rod to give you complete control over how you open or close them. However, there are blinds that neither have a cord nor a rod because they can be harmful to children.

Shades, on the other hand, are not made of individual slats, but are a single piece formed with a single material. Just to be clear, shades are available in different materials but each shade is made of a single material. This is why you can only bring it up or down, not left to right.

Now…Let’s Talk about Curtains and Drapes

Curtains and drapes may look similar but they are somewhat different in terms of how they cover a window.

Curtains are made of different types of fabrics and they are available in a wide array of designs, lengths, widths, colors and styles. Curtains serve different purposes. You need to ask yourself: Do I need curtains to block out sunlight? Or, do I need them for decoration purposes? Your answer will help you choose the right type of curtains. For examples if you need a formal or traditional style, then you may want to look into pleated curtains. If you are looking for curtains for your dining room or lounge, then you should check out box pleat curtains. There is a wide range available to help you with window covering and knowing your requirements will help you get the right type of curtains.

Drapes, also known as draperies, look like curtains. However, what sets them apart is that drapes are made of thick / heavy fabrics and unlike curtains, they don’t let light enter your room. They are available in different sizes. They can hang from above the window to the floor or a little bit beneath your window. If you are looking for style and privacy at the same time then drapes are an ideal window-covering option for you, because they are made of thick and elegant materials such as silk and velvet.

How Can We Forget about Shutters when We Talk about Window Coverings?

Shutters are one of the most common types of window treatments that you can see in homes, offices and shops. Even though they look like blinds, they are different. Shutters are set within the frame of the window itself whereas blinds are usually attached above the window recess. Since shutters are in the window frame, they are more durable than blinds. Consequently, they are more expensive. However, with proper care, they will last you a lifetime. They are excellent for home because they offer beauty and privacy at the same time. However, if you wish to look outside or if you want more light to come in then shutters may not be ideal for you. In this case, you should go for blinds.

Determine Why You Want to Cover Your Windows and Choose a Window Treatment Accordingly

Privacy, managing light and decorations are some of the reasons why you may want to cover your windows. 

If you are looking for something for your bedroom, then blinds, shades or drapes should be an ideal choice for you. Don’t use curtains in your bedroom because they may not block the sunlight completely due to their light fabric. However, you may use curtains along with blinds in your room to control light, take care of your privacy and add beauty to your room. For night workers who sleep during the daytime, drapes made with thick fabrics are ideal for them.

Curtains are great for kitchen. There are even short curtains available known as café curtains.

You can use shades in any room, but if you want to further beautify your room then you may want to use curtains over them.

Now…It’s up to you to decide what sort of window treatment you should go for. I have shared some of the best options to cover your windows, and the decision is yours now.