Did you spend time over the COVID-19 lockdown tending to home improvement projects around your house? You’re not alone. In fact, research from Bank of America has found that 70 percent of Americans have embraced home improvement since the start of the pandemic.
Whether it’s a fresh coat of paint, general repairs, a little indoor greenery, or some new light fixtures, there’s a myriad of ways to make a home feel a little more comfortable, but none quite as simple or impactful as new window coverings.
Updating your window coverings is one of the most efficient ways to completely change the look and feel of a room. There are many factors to consider when choosing the perfect window covering, and these factors go beyond just material or color; How would you prefer to operate your window coverings? What activities are happening in the room? Does the room require light control? Does this window need to be functional or just beautiful? Regardless of the question, all types of window coverings have their own pros and cons, and finding the most suitable option for a house is a matter of personal preference.
The four basic types of window coverings are blinds, shades, curtains and drapes. We sat down with Kyle Cox, the founder of Blindster.com, one of the top websites for custom blinds and shades, for an explanation of each type of window covering, and which one people should choose for which situation.
Blinds
Blinds are one of the most common traditional window coverings in both homes and businesses. Built with a headrail, bottom rail, individual slats, and a tilt and lift mechanism, blinds can be closed to block light and enhance privacy, or opened to let light in and create a view of the outside world.
Being one of the least expensive window coverings, blinds are a perfect option for those on a budget. Just because they’re affordable, however, doesn’t mean they have to be unattractive. Faux wood and aluminum blinds are priced to fit all budgets across the spectrum, without sacrificing on quality or beauty. Blinds also have longevity, as their multiple component construction means they’re not only easy to repair, but they’re also easy to clean and maintain.
Perfect for: Those with budget constraints looking for a simple and stylish window covering, landlords and those with rental properties looking for a long-lasting window covering that is easy to repair, clean, and maintain.
Shades
Less common than blinds, shades are a popular and effective window covering for those looking to block or reduce light levels and maximize privacy. Unlike blinds, you have to completely open shades to enjoy a view of the outdoors. When shades are closed, the fabric used can softly filter natural light into the room, darken the room, or block out all light from entering in. This is achieved from the fabric itself or an additional liner applied to the back of the fabric. You have the ability to control the natural light in each room without sacrificing style. Roller and Solar shades add a modern touch to any home while Roman and Bamboo shades will give you the most creative options and the ability to add texture to your space.
With shades you have more custom options on how you want them to operate. Instead of a fixed headrail with a bottom rail that goes up and down, some shades allow the headrail to purposefully detach so that you can manipulate the shade from both the top down and the bottom up, curating the perfect amount of privacy and view. Shades can also be outfitted with a continuous cord loop chain, various cordless lifts, or even motorization.
Perfect for: Those looking to enhance privacy and reduce or block light entirely, homeowners who want a wide range of style and functional options.
Curtains
Made from lightweight fabrics and used to add a decorative flair, curtains are the window covering everyone knows and loves. Unlike blinds or shades, curtains are generally installed completely outside of windows, and in some cases, may only cover a small part of a window. Because of this, they’re used more for design than function.
While curtains tend to be purely decorative, by using the right fabric – either sheer or blackout – they can combine design with function to complete a room. They’re also versatile and inexpensive, with a range of fabrics that can create beautiful contrasts to colors, shades, patterns and textures used in a room.
If used in conjunction with blinds or shades, curtains not only add an extra layer of design, but also add a layer of protection. This is because, when closed, curtains will deter dust and other factors that can damage or prematurely age shades and blinds. One drawback to this, however, is that curtains tend to attract dust, and require regular cleaning.
Perfect for: Those who want an inexpensive, versatile window covering with a focus on design.
Drapes
While often categorized together, curtains and drapes are two unique types of window covering. Made exclusively with thick and heavy fabrics, drapes tend to be floor length and aim to add a dash of drama or sophistication to a room.
While curtains are used to diffuse light and incorporate design elements to a room, drapes are used for their soundproofing and insulating properties. Thick, thermal drapes can reduce heat loss in winter and keep cold drafts at bay, while the texture and thickness also dampens outside noises and reduces echo within a home. This makes them perfect for those who live in noisy environments.
Design-wise, drapes are often used to give a room a formal appearance. On their own, drapes and their dramatic flair are perfect for adding a touch of elegance to any room.
Perfect for: Those who want to add a touch of design flair and elegance to their home, homeowners who require extra insulation or sound proofing in their homes.
For more information, please visit https://www.blindster.com