First, you found out that your windows need to be replaced. So, you called your local windows and doors company for window replacement. But now you need the perfect window coverings for your new windows!
Finding the perfect window cover is a hard task. There are tons of types, materials and styles out there. Each homeowner is different and has their own list of personal preferences. It is really important that you make yours before going on a shopping spree.
So do you prefer privacy or natural light? Would you buy a covering that is more energy efficient or one that adds aesthetic value? Luckily, there are some types of treatments that cover all areas and prove to be efficient from every point of view.
To ease up your decision making, here are the best types of window coverings on the market:
- Cellular Shades
Cellular shades are also known as honeycomb. They are the newest trend in interior design and are both practical and aesthetically pleasing. This type of shading is specifically made to maximize insulation and energy efficiency.
You can choose your honeycomb from light shading to total blackout and from one cell to three cells. The more cells a honeycomb has, the more heat retain in a room. The shades aren’t made from hard and thick materials, but from soft and lightweight.
Their best feature is the ability to open both from top to bottom as well as from bottom to top. This way you can adjust them to let natural light enter from above, while also being protected from eyes of curious passersby.
- Wooden Blinds
If you want to add a modern touch to an already established traditional look, wooden blinds is the best option for you. Hardwood gives an authentic stylish touch to any room, adding strong colors and creating wonderful shades, especially during sunset and sunrise.
This type of treatment is very easy to clean and adjust to your lighting and privacy preferences. By being able to open from 0 to 180-degree angles, blinds are ideal for balancing natural sunshine and privacy.
Some homeowners are very keen on combining blinds with drapery. This is recommended for bedrooms since energy efficiency and privacy increase to a maximum. If you are looking at that option, choose wooden blinds since this way you will make the most out of your covering combination.
- Scandinavian Shutters
Shutters work best in traditional homes where they match the front door or the gate. Color symmetry is extremely important and shutters do make it noticeable and attention-grabbing.
There are many types of shutters. First, you need to choose whether you want them to be placed in your interior or exterior. Afterwards, you must decide their style. If you want a colorful home, opt for Scandinavian shutters which come in unique forms and colors.
Besides improving aesthetics, this window covering is highly energy efficient. Made from thick wood, when closed, shutters don’t let anything pass by, including strong winds and rainstorms.
- Shoji Panels
Shoji panels are window coverings suitable for homeowners that value simplicity and practicality. They come from Japanese traditional decorating and are used for many things, including bathroom doors, changing rooms, dividers and décor.
Shoji panels are basically screens made from bamboo and rice paper. The translucent paper allows is natural light to enter, even when the treatment is closed. Shoji panels consist of many frames and screens, usually connected with hinges.
They are operated with the sliding mechanism. If you opt for this option, remember that you can customize shoji panels based on your needs or even DIY the entre covering.
- Café Curtains
Drapery will never go out of fashion. From thick and baroque drapes to light and modern curtains, this window covering comes in many shapes and sizes. For us, the best type of drapery in 2019 is café curtains, especially suitable for entertainment family areas such as kitchens or sunrooms.
Remember how we mentioned that the most important feature for cellular shades is that they can also open from top to bottom? Well, café curtains are very similar. They cover more than half a window, leaving the top part open and available for letting the sunshine in.
This window treatment is amazing for those that prefer light and 18th century aesthetics. Café curtains also look amazing in kitchens, adding warmth and strengthening family bonds.