subject: Window Coverings [print this page] Window Coverings Window Coverings
Unless sufferers are in the design business, window coverings are usually not a subject to be talked about. Often it stirs up confusion, images of window coverings done wrong and conjures up images of bent, dusty, vinyl venetian blinds with a pink flowery half-curtain at the top known as a valance. As a result of current advances however, window coverings have advanced in quality, style and versatility. Interior designers have paved the way for advances in window coverings to make certain that not only are they practical but stylish as well.
Often, window coverings are sorted into four groupings: Blinds, Shutters, Shades, and Drapes and Curtains. Each type of window covering has its own good and bad points. Once you determine what the window coverings will be used for such as light reduction, privacy or style, you will be able to choose the right type of covering for your room.
Shutters can be acquired in wood, composite or woven wood. Wooden shutters provide heat retaining material and reduce light effectively while giving a room a classic feel. Remote systems can be added to traditional wood shutters to modernize the feel. In sunnier locations, composite shutters are a good option. In climates of varying temperature, composite shutters stand up better than wood while still having the appearance of the real thing. Custom-fitting can be purchased with composites as with wood shutters and remote systems may also be added. Another type of shutter is woven wood. Combining all-natural woven material with wood shutters creates a more contemporary feel.
Blinds are designed largely for doors and windows that are frequently in need of being open. Blinds are made of various materials to meet a variety of needs. Vertical blinds are frequently used on patio doors so that you can provide privacy and light filtration while still maintaining the accessibility of doorway. Vinyl, fabric panels and wood materials are a few of the available types of vertical blinds. A touch of intricacy can be added to a room using light filtering wood or faux wood blinds. Faux wood blinds are appropriate for high humidity rooms such as bathrooms or kitchens. Another great choice for humid rooms are fabric blinds. Their ability to endure temperature changes and lightweight material make them an ideal blind.
Vinyl blinds have been modernized and upgraded from the originals and are still one of the best choices for spaces where children and pets reside. Because vinyl blinds are versatile, durable and easy to freshen up, they are a popular choice for consumers. Aluminum blinds are a close look-alike of the vinyl blinds but are sturdier in construction and extremely versatile to fit windows of unconventional shapes and sizes. Another benefit of using aluminum blinds is their capability to repel heat more so than vinyl blinds.|Yet another window covering option is to use a shade. Advancements have been made to the classic shade on a spring system to provide reliable coverage and ease of use. Some forms of shades that are available include: pleated, sheer, woven wood, roman and roller shades. Depending on the style of the shade they can boost the light levels or decrease them. To increase the amount of light filtration, underlay shades can also be set up. Modern remote systems can be installed combined with the shades for ease of use.
Regardless of the window coverings you choose, make sure to calculate properly to ensure your treatments will fit your window or door. When making your final choices, also consider the role you want your window coverings to play as there are always environmental and durability considerations involved. Another important process to take into account is the installation of your window treatments. When choosing a covering or a design company to help you out, be sure to ask about installation charges or specific instructions on how to install them yourself. Colour scheme and room theme must be thought of as well. If done properly, window treatments have the ability to enhance any room. As showroom lights typically distort colours, be sure to bring paint and fabric swatches along so you can match the colours effectively. Keeping your window coverings maintained adequately should also be a factor in your decision. With the developments and innovations in modern window coverings and design, be sure to choose window coverings that will suit your lifestyle not ones that will complicate it.
