Selecting the right window treatments for your home can completely transform the look and feel of a room. But with so many options to choose from – curtains, blinds, shutters and more – it can be tricky to know where to start. Follow this comprehensive guide to learn everything you need to know about choosing the perfect window treatments.
Measure Your Windows Properly
The first step is to accurately measure each window you intend to dress. This will ensure you get treatments that fit properly and look their best.
What to Measure
For curtains, valances and shades, you’ll need to measure the entire length and width of each window frame. For blinds and shutters, measure just the area inside the window frame where the treatment will sit.
Be sure to write down the measurements for each window separately. Even if you have multiple windows that appear the same size, there are likely small differences you’ll want to account for.
Measuring Tips
- Use a steel measuring tape for accuracy. Cloth tape measures can stretch over time and give incorrect sizes.
- For width, measure across the top, middle and bottom of the frame. Use the widest measurement.
- For height, measure on the left, right and center. Use the tallest measurement.
- Round up measurements to the nearest quarter or eighth of an inch. It’s better for treatments to be slightly big versus slightly small.
- Don’t forget to account for any obstructions like window cranks or locks when measuring.
- For inside mounts, reduce height and width measurements by 1/4 to 1/2 inch so treatments aren’t too tight.
Choose a Style
Once you know the exact window dimensions, it’s time to consider design factors like privacy needs, light control and aesthetic preferences. This will guide you in selecting a specific type of window treatment.
Privacy Considerations
Think about how much privacy you need from the window treatment:
- Total coverage: Bedrooms, bathrooms, dressing rooms. Go with opaque options like energy-efficient cellular shades.
- Some visibility: Living rooms, kitchens. Sheer curtains let in light but obscure views.
- No coverage needed: Very high windows, transoms, sidelights. Try uncovered treatments like decorative rods and accents.
Light Control
Assess the amount of incoming light you want to filter or block:
- Total blockout: Media rooms, nurseries. Light-blocking cellular shades and blackout curtains prevent light entry.
- Some light filtration: Offices, dens. Non-blackout curtains and solar shades reduce glare and filter bright light.
- Maximum light: Dark rooms, north-facing windows. Sheer curtains lightly soften and diffuse natural light.
Aesthetic Preferences
Factor in the decorative look you want to achieve:
- Elegant: Floor-length curtains, roman shades, wooden blinds.
- Casual: Cafe curtains, cloth roller shades, faux wood blinds.
- Modern: Metal or solar window shades, cordless blinds.
- Rustic: Burlap curtains, natural woven shades, real wood shutters.
- Whimsical: Patterned curtains, playful novelty shades.
Compare Treatment Options
With your window measurements, functionality needs and decorating style identified, now compare specific types of window treatments to find products that fit the bill.
Curtains
Overview: Curtain panels hung from decorative rods, offering endless design options.
Privacy: Low to high, depending on fabric opacity.
Light Control: From sheer to blackout fabrics.
Advantages: Soft appearance, easy to change looks with new fabrics, work with any decor.
Considerations: Can blow in drafts if not installed correctly. Need inner liner for full light blockout. Require ironing for crisp appearance.
Cost: $ – $$$$
Best For: Living rooms, dining rooms, bedrooms. Floor to ceiling coverage. Hanging with other treatments like shades.
Blinds
Overview: Slatted window coverings operated by lift cords, wands or motors.
Privacy: Good, blocks views when closed.
Light Control: Moderate light blockage. Add blackout lining for more.
Advantages: Energy efficient, easy to raise/lower/tilt slats, give clean tailored look.
Considerations: Can block outdoor views when closed. Need frequent dusting.
Cost: $ – $$
Best For: Offices, kitchens, bathrooms. Above sink or counter areas. With curtains or alone.
Shades
Overview: Solid window coverings mounted to the frame or ceiling. Draw up/down or roll up.
Privacy: Medium to high, depending on fabric.
Light Control: From sheer to total blackout.
Advantages: Clean look, easily control light & privacy. Cordless options. Insulate windows.
Considerations: Can be pricey for motorized or specialty shades. Limited decorative options.
Cost: $ – $$$
Best For: Bedrooms, media rooms, skylights. For light filtration and insulation. Alone or with curtains.
Shutters
Overview: Hinged or sliding slatted panels that cover the window. Made of wood, composite or vinyl.
Privacy: High when closed.
Light Control: Good light blockage.
Advantages: Very durable, custom fitted to window sizes. Can tilt slats to let light in.
Considerations: Expensive, especially real wood. Require professional installation.
Cost: $$ – $$$$
Best For: Formal living rooms, studies, dining rooms. To replace drapes. Indoors and outdoors.
Draperies
Overview: Elegant floor-length or window-height fabric panels hung from decorative hardware.
Privacy: High, blocks views and light.
Light Control: Use blackout lined or opaque heavy fabrics.
Advantages: Luxurious appearance, filter noise and heat/cold. Formal look.
Considerations: Expensive. Require professional installation and regular dry cleaning.
Cost: $$$ – $$$$
Best For: Formal living spaces, master bedrooms. Floor to ceiling coverage. Alone or with additional treatments.
Choose Mounting & Hardware
Proper mounting and hanging hardware can make or break the look of window treatments, while also ensuring their proper function.
Mounting Types
Inside mount: Treatments installed within window frames for a clean, sleek look. Offer full privacy and light blockage.
Outside mount: Treatments mounted outside frames to showcase molding and maximize window visibility. Need sufficient wall space.
Ceiling mount: Treatments hung on ceiling or crown molding above windows. Great for short or French doors. Gives unobstructed views.
Hanging Options
Rods: Available in many styles, sizes and materials. Best for most curtains and drapes. Double rods allow two layers.
Brackets & finials: Decorative hardware for curtain rods. Finished look coordinates with room decor.
Valances: Short top treatments that conceal rods and hardware. Made of fabric or hard materials.
Tie backs: Hold curtains open in place. Choose corded, tassel, fabric or decorative styles.
Tension rods: Flexible rods that fit tightly in window frames. Quick, easy installation but not as secure.
Choose Colors, Patterns & Textures
The fabric and materials used for window treatments make a big impact on room decor and appeal. Keep these considerations in mind when selecting:
Color: Tie in other hues used in the room. Light colors help brighten dark rooms. Avoid stark contrasts.
Pattern: Solid treatments recede, allowing bolder furnishings to stand out. Patterns and prints make the treatment the focal point.
Texture: Look for luxurious, tactile fabrics like velvet, linen and brocade. Smooth, shiny materials reflect more light.
Lining: Unlined curtains and drapes still filter some light. For total blackout, look for full light-blocking linings.
Opacity: Sheers let in light while obscuring views. Blackout fabrics completely block external light sources.
Order Correct Measurements
When purchasing window treatments, providing accurate measurements is key to getting products that truly fit your windows.
Ordering Tips
- Provide the exact measurements for each individual window needing treatment. Never assume two windows are the identical size.
- Make it clear whether measurements are for the outside window frame or inside opening.
- Add any necessary clearance needed for mounting within frames.
- Account for how the treatment will be installed – inside mount, outside mount, ceiling mount, etc.
- Include whether treatment will be stationary or needs additional fabric for opening/closing.
- For gathered curtains, the width measurement should be 1.5 to 2.5 times the actual window width.
Consider In-Home Consultations
For specialty treatments like draperies, complex designs, or whole home installations, consider having an in-home design consultation.
Experts will take detailed measurements, assess your goals, identify optimal products and provide realistic cost estimates. This also ensures no guesswork when ordering.
Install Treatments Correctly
Follow proper installation techniques to get the perfect look while maximizing function.
Curtain & Drapes
Hang curtain rods extending 3-4 inches past the window frame on each side. Use the appropriate fasteners for wall/ceiling types. Mount high and wide for dramatic floor-length looks.
Use rings, clips or tabs spaced every 6-8 inches to smoothly hand curtains. Overlap panels in the center. For blackout, keep edges flush with the wall.
Blinds & Shades
Check that all fittings and brackets match the shade or blind specifications. Mount within frames for clean sightlines. Ensure adequate clearance for lifts and pulls.
Shim any gapping edges with insulation strips or felt. Pull shades tightly on their rolls and keep edges flush for light blockage.
Shutters
Hire professionals to install interior and exterior shutters. Ensure the frame fits snugly within the window opening and hinges swing freely.
Test tilting and closing the slats. Adjust side framing or add insulation if light leaks around the edges.
Maintain Treatments Properly
Follow product care instructions to keep window treatments looking their best for years to come.
Curtains & Drapes
- Vacuum gently using the proper attachment or brush curtains to remove dust and dirt.
- Close curtains when not in use to minimize fading. Rotate panels if sunlight hits one side more.
- Spot clean stains gently using recommended techniques for the fabric.
- Take down and professionally launder or dry clean at the end of each season.
Blinds & Shades
- Dust regularly using a microfiber cloth or specialized blind duster.
- Spot clean stains on slats using minimal liquid applied to a soft cloth.
- Repair bent slats using spring-loaded pliers. Contact manufacturer if under warranty.
- Check cords and replaces frayed or broken ones immediately. Keep out of pets and children’s reach.
Shutters
- Dust shutters weekly using a soft brush or microfiber cloth to prevent buildup.
- Wipe down vinyl or composite shutters with mild soap and water. Use all-natural cleaners on real wood.
- Sand and refinish exterior wood shutters as needed to maintain the protective finish.
- Lubricate hinges regularly to prevent sticking and squeaking. Tighten any loose hinge screws.
Frequently Asked Questions About Choosing Window Treatments
- What size curtains should I get? For most windows, choose curtains that are 1.5 to 2.5 times the width of your window frame. This provides a nice draped look when open. Length can range from sill length to puddling on the floor based on your preference. Have puddle length curtains hemmed to just lightly kiss the floor.
- How much extra width do I need for curtains? Order curtains that are 50% to 100% wider than the actual window frame. So for a 30” wide window, get 45” to 60” wide curtain panels. This allows the fabric to gracefully drape when opened.
- Should curtains match the walls? Not necessarily. Curtains can complement your wall color but don’t need to precisely match. Choose hues in the same color family that have similar tones. Curtains in the same or lighter shades than walls make rooms feel airy. Deeper, richer curtain colors give a cozy feel.
- Do drapes go all the way to the floor? Floor length drapes that puddle slightly on the floor create an elegant, upscale look. But they aren’t mandatory. Drapes can stop just below the window sill, at the apron below the sill, or extend to various lengths on the wall below. Adapt their length based on your decor.
- Should blinds match trim or wall color? Matching wood blinds to your existing trim or floor color helps them visually disappear into the background. White or neutral linen-colored blinds complement most wall colors without standing out too much. Colored blinds in strong hues become an accent in the room. Select whatever works best with your goals.
- Do blackout curtains really work? Thick, lined blackout curtains made from tightly woven fabric can block out nearly all exterior light. Look for curtains specifically labeled “blackout” rather than merely opaque. Ensure edges are flush with walls and overlap panels in the middle for the best light blocking. Blackout cellular shades also effectively prevent light entry.
- How much do custom drapes cost? The cost of custom drapes varies widely depending on the fabric used and complexity of the designs. As a rough estimate, expect to pay $50-$150 per fabric yard. Simple designs may require 5-7 yards while intricate styles can need 10 yards or more. Labor, special linings and embellishments also affect pricing. Obtain quotes from drapery workrooms before ordering.
Conclusion
Choosing new window treatments can be fun yet feel overwhelming with so many decisions to make. But armed with accurate window measurements, an understanding of your needs and style preferences, and knowledge to compare all the options, you’re sure to find the perfect fit. Ordering the correct sizes and properly installing your selections helps ensure your new window dressings look and function their best.
With the right window treatments that complement your space, control privacy and light, and work within your budget, you’ll have beautiful, functional windows that bring you joy for years to come.
