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Values and Views: Window Covering Comparisons

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The great view from your windows might be one of the reasons you chose your home, but you don’t want those windows to be completely bare. Today’s homeowners have plenty of choices when it comes to covering their windows. The key is selecting a style that fits with the theme of your decor. We’ll discuss several different options available and help you understand which style is right for you.

Values and Views: Window Covering Comparisons Pink Curtains ImageCurtains and Drapes: Classic Looks

Curtains and drapes are a good choice for any home because there are so many varieties. They’re also easy to change when you feel like redecorating. Though many people think they’re interchangeable, it’s important to note that curtains are usually made of lighter fabrics, while drapes are usually heavy fabrics.

Sheer and lace curtains are the lightest styles available. The fabric is thin to allow light to come through, so this is a good choice if you want to add a light and airy feeling to any room while following a contemporary design.

Satin curtains give an airy look to the room, and you can get them in every colour from the brightest white to hot pink to deep black. This makes them a versatile choice for the living room.

Heavy drapes in brocade fabrics look nice in homes that have a lot of antiques. Many styles of drapes have a special light-blocking backing that makes them a great choice for the bedrooms when you don’t want the sun to wake you up.

Most people like the look of long curtains and drapes that start above the window line and hang down to the floor. Shorter, window-length curtains work well in bedrooms however. Café-style curtains only cover up the bottom half of the window – some have an extra valance at the top – and are often used in the kitchen or bathroom.

Shades: Modern Styles

Shades are often made of fabric or another type of soft and flexible material. When you draw the shades, you completely cover your windows. Some modern styles of shades are thin enough to allow light to filter through.

Shades are a good choice for people who want some privacy in their home but don’t want to sacrifice the natural light. Some styles, particularly honeycomb shades, make your home more energy-efficient by blocking the heat and sun from your home. 

Values and Views: Window Covering Comparisons Blinds ImageBlinds: Versatile Options

Blinds are so similar to shades that many people think they’re the same thing. There’s a slight difference though. Blinds have individual slats that cover the window either vertically or horizontally, and you can adjust the amount of light that comes through by changing the angle of the blind. This allows you to get more natural light into the home when you want it while still keeping the window covered. Aluminum and plastic blinds are a popular choice because they’re so affordable, but you can also get some nice looking blinds in wood.

Shutters: Long-Lasting Solutions

Think of a shutter as a wooden window that covers the glass window. Many have blinds incorporated into the design so that you can close the shutters, but make adjustments to allow some light to come through. They’re not as common as other types of window coverings, and those who do choose to use them typically only have them in the kitchen and bathroom. They work really well for those who have a farmhouse or arts and crafts theme to their decor.

Builder-Installed or Not?

As you think about the window coverings for your new home, realize that you have a choice to make. If you’re choosing something like shades, blinds, or shutters, you can usually ask the builder to install the coverings as part of the package. They’ll build the cost right into your mortgage. However, you’re also free to have them installed after you move. The choice is yours, but it’s nice to move into a home that’s ready for you. Ask your builder about their options.

Window coverings offer privacy, improve home energy-efficiency, and complete your decor. It’s important to consider all of your options before making a decision. By touring various showhomes throughout Edmonton, you’ll find a wide range of looks to help you decide what’s right for you.

This article is part of the Values and Views series. You can also check out our guides to new home countertops and new home floorings.

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Photo credits: blue curtainsblinds, pink curtains
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