The Ultimate Guide to Window Treatments to Help You Save Energy and Keep The Heat In
There are so many different window treatments to choose from when updating your home. There are blinds and shades, roller and vertical blinds, plantation shutters, and solar screens – the list goes on! Whether you prefer wood-based window treatments or vinyl window treatments, there's a solution that will suit your home and budget.
Roman Shades
Roman shades are distinguished by their soft folds rather than precise pleats. They can be raised up, rolled up, or completely lowered down. Roman shades offer a tailored, modern appearance and add richness and warmth to any room. They also provide great insulation from both cold and heat, making them an ideal choice for energy efficiency.
Vertical Blinds
Vertical blinds are ideal for sliding doors or very large windows. They come in a variety of materials and styles, but the most popular options are vinyl and fabric vertical blinds. Vinyl vertical blinds are durable and easy to clean, making them a great choice for high-traffic areas like living rooms and kitchens. Fabric vertical blinds are more decorative in nature and offer increased privacy options, so they work well in bedrooms and family rooms.
Bamboo Shades
Bamboo shades have become very popular over the last few years as people look for ways to bring more natural materials into their homes. Bamboo is an excellent insulating material because of its density, yet it is also lightweight. The density of bamboo helps to stop airflow through your windows and keeps the cold out.
Plantation Shutters
Plantation shutters are often thought of as a style of shutter rather than a window treatment. However, the slats can be opened or closed to allow light into the room and give you control over how much heat escapes out the window. One downside is that plantation shutters are permanent and have to be specially fitted for each window, making them more expensive than other types of window treatments.
Roller Shades
Roller shades are the most affordable and versatile option for window treatments. They come in fabrics that range from sheer to blackout, with cords to raise and lower the shades or motorized options. Roller shades can be installed on either side of the window frames, allowing you to use your window sills for plants or artwork. Roller shades have a modern look and are an excellent option for rooms with multiple windows as they're easy to coordinate across several different sizes.
Buckram Curtains
Buckram curtains are a great choice for your insulated window treatments. They have a layer of buckram fabric sewn into their interior sides to provide a layer of insulation for your windows. The buckram is a tightly woven fabric that can prevent air from circulating through the curtain material, which helps cut down on drafts and heat loss. Buckram curtains work best when paired with another window treatment, such as a blind or shade.
Sheer Draperies
Sheer draperies are ideal for filtering natural light. The translucent fabric allows light to pass through the window treatment while it enhances total privacy. Utilize sheer fabric for your living room window treatments. You can add a dash of color to your living space by choosing a sheer fabric in a color that complements your current interior decor.
Any of these window treatments will keep you warmer in the winter and cooler in the summer. Contact a window treatment service such as Thundersley Interiors to discuss the best options for your interior design.