Buying new window coverings can be confusing, especially when homeowners have so many options and so little experience how to do it. All the myths about window treatments needlessly complicate the selection process further.
In the search for the perfect blinds, shades or shutters, it helps to know the facts. Because unless you’re a design expert, you could end up with mismatched or poorly hung window coverings or none at all.
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To help you avoid falling prey to them, we debunk ten myths about window treatments. Have a look.
10 Common Window Covering Myths Busted
Many homeowners struggle to choose a suitable window treatment. After all, they come in many shapes, sizes and functions, making selection difficult.
Choosing the perfect window coverings for your living space requires facts, not myths. Here, we bust some common myths to help you make an informed decision.
1) Blinds are difficult to clean and maintain
Window blinds are the go-to coverings when it comes to providing privacy and insulating a room. But some people think maintaining them is hard. Although they are delicate and can’t be cleaned quickly, it’s not difficult to keep them in good shape. All you need is the right method.
Unlike other window treatments which can be cleaned using a cloth, blinds need to be vacuumed at least once a month and dusted regularly. Here’s a complete guide to cleaning blinds without damaging them.
2) Drapes should be hung on the window trim
It’s a common misconception that the perfect place to hang drapes is on the window trim. However, this arrangement creates the illusion of short, squat windows and blocks natural light.
Your best bet is to hang drapes high; at least an inch or two from the ceiling. As for width, the inner edge of the drapes should fall on the outer edge of your window, thus allowing in plenty of light. This also creates an illusion of a higher and wider window.
3) Window treatments make my home too dark
The primary functions of window treatment are privacy and controlling light while accentuating the windows upon which they rest.
But not all window coverings block light completely. Instead they come in different levels of opacity. Blackout shades and other room darkening window treatments are popular choices for bedrooms and media rooms but can of course be opened during the day to let in light.
To do just that, choose sheer shades. These gently filter light through transparent panels to create an elegant glow without losing out on style.
4) Window shades are difficult to operate
Shades are one of the most sophisticated window coverings and are perfect for making a room look clutter-free. However, it’s a common myth that operating them is a hassle. There are many motorized and cordless shades on the market that can be raised and lowered with the click of a button.
Additionally, the ability to set schedules to open and close them at specific times means you may never have to worry about them at all. That’s why they’re the preferred choice for seniors and people with mobility issues.
| DID YOU KNOW? |
| During construction of the Colosseum, Rome became very dusty. To prevent dust and debris from entering their homes and keep heat at bay, Romans hung damp cloths over their windows. Later, they started using colourful, ornate clothes to accentuate their windows, which is how Roman shades came into being. |
5) Draperies don’t need to be lined
Many homeowners omit lining when installing draperies because they think it’s a waste of money. Our window treatment experts advise that lining protects windows from the sun and adds depth and fullness to drapes, thus making them look more luxurious and elegant, with well-defined pleats. Plus, there’s a wide variety of drapery lining fabrics to meet your needs. These include blackout, insulating and fire-retardant linings.
6) Window coverings should be avoided to achieve a minimalist aesthetic
It’s a popular but false belief that window coverings must be avoided if one wishes to achieve the minimalist aesthetic. The fact is you need to choose a suitable option, not skip it altogether.
To complement the clean lines and natural light required for minimalist design, Roman shades, plantation shutters, curtains that aren’t overly fancy and roller blinds are excellent options. Drapes are an unconventional choice for minimalist home decor but can be installed with a few specifications. These include choosing a neutral colour or wave pleats, avoiding patterns and not using tiebacks or holdbacks.
7) Window treatments will obstruct the view outside
If you have a sliding glass door or sunroom, you probably use it to enjoy the view outside. Think using a window treatment will obstruct that view? It won’t. In fact, covering a door or sunroom window with shutters or roller shades provides privacy and light control. They can be easily adjusted from top and bottom to let you enjoy the view outside during the day and cover it at night to protect your privacy.
8) Window treatments are all the same
There’s no one-size-fits-all scenario when it comes to decorating your windows. Each room has its own lighting, privacy and design needs, so requires a suitable window covering option depending on these factors.
For example:
- You need to block out light in your bedroom to create an environment conducive to sleep. For this, blackout shades are a great choice.
- Your child’s room requires a safe window covering that doesn’t pose a threat of strangulation, thus making cordless or motorized window treatments ideal.
- If you’re looking for a timeless window covering that provides privacy and light control, traditional window curtains are your best bet.
9) You can’t find window coverings for oddly-shaped windows
Many dealers offer custom window coverings that can be tailor-made to fit your windows if they’re wider or larger than standard.
As far as unusually-shaped windows are concerned, gone are the days when you had no option to cover trapezoid, oval and arched windows. Read this post on window covering ideas for oddly shaped windows to get inspiration for covering your unique windows.
10) Window coverings are expensive
The cost of window coverings depends on many factors including the type of window treatment, the material from which it’s made, the size of your windows and their functionality. For example, wooden blinds cost more than faux wood blinds and ready-made curtains are cheaper than custom ones. Not all options are expensive.
Design misconceptions are unavoidable but believing in them can result in awful home decor. Instead, embrace the latest window treatment options and accentuate your living space with suitable blinds, shades, shutters and curtains.
If you need assistance choosing a perfect home window covering, feel free to get in touch with us. We are happy to help.
