What Types of Window Treatments are Best for My Windows?

As a homeowner, it's important to understand what kind of windows you have in your home before determining the best window treatments. Each type of window presents its own set of challenges and considerations when it comes to selecting the right treatments. Seattle Blinds, a local top notch window treatment retailer in Seattle, Washington, shares insights on the best window treatments for various kinds of windows, offering expert advice to help you make an informed decision.

Understanding What Kind of Windows You Have

Size & Shape

The size and shape of your windows play a significant role in determining the most suitable window treatments. Larger windows including picture windows, bay windows, and floor to ceiling windows have significant surface area and usually face a view or sunlight. For these types of windows, you may want to consider window coverings that allow for maximum light exposure while still offering privacy. However, smaller windows that slide open might benefit from treatments that provide more airflow control or insulation.

Additionally, the shape of your windows can impact the type of treatments that work best. Arched windows, for example, may require custom-made blinds or shades to fit their unique contours, while standard rectangular windows offer more flexibility in terms of off-the-shelf options.

Location

The location of your windows within your home can also influence your choice of window treatments. For instance, if you have windows facing a busy street or a neighbor's house, you may want to opt for treatments that offer increased privacy, such as blinds or opaque shades. On the other hand, if you have windows with a picturesque view, you might want to choose treatments that allow you to enjoy the scenery while still protecting your privacy.

Consider the orientation of your windows as well. South-facing windows receive more direct sunlight, so you may need treatments that can block UV rays and reduce heat gain. North-facing windows, on the other hand, may require treatments that help retain heat during colder months.

Best Window Treatments for Each Kind of Window

Slider Doors

Slider doors are a popular choice for patios and balconies, as they offer easy access to outdoor spaces. When it comes to selecting the best window treatments for slider doors, horizontal shades offer a sleek and modern look that complements the contemporary style of many homes. Customers tend to like Roller Shades on slider doors because when opened, they up into a sleek cassette to preserve the view. Plus, there is nothing dangling for kids or pets to play with. Both treatments provide excellent light control and privacy, and their design allows for effortless operation and maintenance.

Seattle Blinds also provides many different vertical options for a more traditional, cozy look. This also provides the convenience of having privacy on one side of the door but keeping one side open.

Fixed, Slider, & Bay Windows

Fixed, slider, and bay windows are traditional windows found in various areas of a typical home. For these types of windows, you have a wide range of choices, including curtains, drapes, blinds, or shades. It's advisable to go for treatments that complement the overall style of your room while providing the desired level of light control and privacy. Consider consulting with a professional window treatment specialist to explore the best options for your specific needs.

Curtains and drapes are popular choices as they add a touch of elegance and sophistication to any space. They come in a variety of fabrics, patterns, and colors, allowing you to customize the look of your windows to suit your personal style. Additionally, curtains and drapes provide excellent light control and privacy when paired with blackout or sheer liners.

Blinds and shades are also versatile options for these types of windows. They come in various materials, such as wood, faux wood, aluminum, and fabric, allowing you to choose a style that complements your decor. Blinds and shades can be easily adjusted to control the amount of light and privacy you desire, making them a practical choice for any room.

Skylight Windows

Skylight windows offer a unique way to bring natural light into your home. However, they also present a unique set of challenges when it comes to selecting the right window treatments.  

At Seattle Blinds, our Duette Honeycombs by Hunter Douglas are the best option for skylight windows. These provide amazing insulation as well as different opacities to match different needs for each room. These can be manual or motorized, but of course we recommend motorized for convenience!

Motorized blinds and shades allow you to adjust the amount of light and heat that enters your space with just a touch of a button. With their convenient remote-control operation, you can open or close the blinds or shades, even if your skylight is in a hard-to-reach area. Some motorized blinds and shades even come with smart home integration, allowing you to control them using your smartphone or voice commands.

Sun Facing Windows

Windows that face the sun can present challenges in terms of heat and glare control.  

To preserve your view, consider screen roller shades with an opacity rating of 10%- 5% to block harsh sunlight. Another option is Silhouette or Pirouette sheer Shades which provide you with 3 different light control options. Full light blocking when you need, vanes open for partial sun blocking & view to the outside, and of course all the way open for maximum view. All 3 of these options also provide UV ray protection to protect floors, furniture, cabinetry, and artwork from sun damage. 

When it comes to selecting the best window treatments for your windows, choosing the type, size, and location of your windows is crucial to enhancing the aesthetic appeal of your home and optimizing your overall comfort and privacy. Visit our Seattle Blinds Showroom today for expert advice on window treatments that suit your needs!