Are shades and curtains popular window treatments in 2022?
Curtains and shades are in for today’s home trends.
There are so many reasons why today’s homeowner uses curtains and shades as their window treatments. One of the reasons why is because of how they function. Shades and curtains are great for their function as well as their looks. They are so popular because they are stylish and function smoothly.
What Is the Difference Between Shades and Blinds?
Many times homeowners a referring to the same thing when using both shades and blinds, but they are technically two different window treatments.
Shades hang from the top of the window to the bottom. They are a solid continuous surface that covers the whole window. They have to be completely raised to let the sunshine in or completely down for privacy. Shades are made out of fabrics, bamboo or woven woods, lightweight cellular material and sheer fabrics.
Blinds also hang from the windows but they are not solid like shades. They have either horizontal or vertical slats that can be opened or closed. Blinds are usually made of wood, faux wood, aluminum or PVC. Blinds can be completely closed and down for complete privacy, the vertical or horizontal slates tilted for semi-privacy or pulled up like a blind for a complete view outdoors.
What Types of Shades and Curtains Are In Style?
Today there are many popular styles of shades and curtains. The roller shade is a casual modern farmhouse look. They come in many colors, textures and patterns. The cellular or honeycomb shades give off a cool, calm and quiet vibe and are energy-efficient. These are great for families with young children or families with pets because there are many cordless lift options. Roman shades are classic and more traditional in look. They are made of luxurious fabrics. Another popular look is the bamboo/woven wood shades which give a natural custom look. Dual or zebra shades make a bold statement that adds texture and dimension to the window. There are also sheer shades that are not completely private but are great for giving the window an elegant look.
Shades that not only look good but are for certain functions are also there to choose from. Solar shades can help reduce the harmful UV rays that are let into your home. Exterior solar shades keep your home, patio or decks cool. They are weather resistant and also a solar shade. Many homes have skylight windows which are a great feature. To showcase them, there are skylight shades that are custom and sun-blocking. Another feature is an arched window. There are arched window shades that can be light filtering or blackout.
Drapery and curtains are also a popular way to dress up the windows. They can also come in sheer to blackout depending on how much shade you need. Curtains can be used by themselves or to dress up a window that already has blinds or shades.
How Often Do You Need to Replace Your Window Treatments?
Just like anything else, your window treatments go a long way if they are installed correctly and maintained often. There are some homeowners who will want to change them out often while others will want to keep them as long as they last.
Remember using window treatments are not only energy efficient but makes a window look beautiful as well. Follow the manufacturer’s directions to preserve your window treatments. Also, dust and wipe the treatments down at least two times a year or more. If made of fabric lauder them or dry clean them a couple of times a year.
