What Are The Different Types of Window Treatments?
Finished your window replacement project? Now looking for a neat window treatment design? Look no further, in this blog is everything you need to know about window treatments.
The Basics
The first thing you should know is there are 4 basic types of window treatment: shades, blinds, shutters and drapes. Lots of homeowners confuse different treatment types, the most common confusion being between shades and blinds, but it isn’t something one should be ashamed of, since even the best interior designers can get confused as well.
Finding the ideal treatment for your window is hard and depends on many things, but mostly it depends on the homeowner’s preferences. Do you value privacy more than aesthetics? What kind of style is your home? Do you prefer modern or traditional looks? To help you out, we are going to discuss the 4 basic types and what they can offer to a home:
1. Shades
Probably the most common choice for homeowners, shades come in different colors, sizes and materials. But, what all shades have in common is their way of functioning, opening from bottom to top, they are most practical for maintaining privacy in a home.
The most popular ones are called Roman shades, usually made from fabric. Roman shades can also be made from specific woods like bamboo. A modern variant of shades as window treatments is cellular (known as honeycomb – also opening from top to bottom) and roller. To put the cherry on top, manufacturers also create shades from highly UV resistant and energy efficient materials.
2. Blinds
The number two option for homeowners is blinds. These are more flexible than shades since they are created from slats which can rotate to 180 degrees. This makes them ideal for maintaining privacy and allowing natural light at the same time.
Just as with for shades, there are many variations for blinds as well. However, the 2 basic types are vertical and venetian. In the latter, the slats are placed horizontally while in the former, well…vertically. But the ultimate and most modern blinds are pleated. They are similar to cellular shades because they open from top to bottom, as well as from bottom to top.
3. Curtains
The gentlest window treatment out there is drapery. Choosing a curtain is surely more complicated than choosing blinds and shades. There is ton of fabric available and each material has its own characteristics, including weight which also contributes to the overall aesthetic.
From café curtains to ones operated with pushing a button, curtains are the richest window treatment when it comes to options on the market. The sense of elegance they bring to a room cannot be replaced by anything else. But, what they have in beauty, they lack in privacy. This is why homeowners usually combine them with other treatments or choose heavyweight combinations of different curtains.
4. Shutters
This window treatment is not always, but can be combined with either curtains, blinds or shades. Commonly found in traditional homes. The best shutters are those with authentic and historically rich designs, adding a unique flare to the interior of the home.
This window treatment is placed inside of the window and it is usually made from wood or vinyl. The thick material works amazing for privacy and on extremely hot/cold days it keeps more air on the inside of the home.
About PM Windows
PM Windows and Doors Kitchener Waterloo is your top choice for replacement windows and replacement doors.
How Often Do You Need to Replace Your Windows?
Thinking about doing window replacement? Smart move! This renovation project has one of the highest returns on investments. Tons of homeowners are deciding to freshen up the windows since they learned how a window determines energy efficiency, comfort, and market value. But, when should one really replace the windows? To help you out, here are the basics things you should know about this home upgrade:
The Factors
Each window is different and so is each home, thus “when to replace” may be a difficult question for answering. However, there are factors that influence every type of window and determine its efficiency. Some windows work best in colder climates, while some in hotter. Some frames last 25 years, while some only 15. Everything you should know about these factors will be presented below. But before you read, check the warranties to see your window’s age since it is of utmost importance!
Frame Material
A window frame can be made form lots of things. However, there are 4 most popular materials: wood, vinyl, aluminum and fiberglass. When it comes to age fiberglass deserves the first place since it can last to approximately 50 years. Vinyl has the second place with a lifespan of 40, while wood slightly less with 25 and aluminum with the last place, lasting maximum 18. These numbers vary because to achieve maximum lifespans, the windows should be in an ideal climate, properly installed and manufactured, and regularly maintained.
The better the company you hire for installation, the more your windows will last. Also, wood requires regular maintenance because of vulnerability to termites and rot. So if you haven’t been cleaning it lately, don’t expect it to reach 25. Another important thing is replacing the windows after surviving a severe storm. The window may have lasted the storm, but it put maximum effort to do so, resulting in extreme damage on the inside.
The Signs
If you checked your window’s age and you learned that it is quite young, don’t put your mind at ease. This is because severe weather conditions, massive mold growth or problems with the drainage systems can cut those numbers in half. So having a malfunctioning window, even before its end date, isn’t that uncommon. Check these warning signs to see whether you need immediate window replacement or repair. Schedule a free consultation to check the true condition of your windows:
- Cracks & Rot
- Draftiness
- High Electrical Bills
- Termites & Pesticides
- Window Leaks
- Poor Soundproofing
- Faded Furniture Around the Window
- Scratched Glass
- Frequent Interior Condensation
About PM Windows
PM Windows and Doors Kitchener Waterloo is your top choice for replacement windows and replacement doors.