What investment value is there in window fashions?
Window treatments can enhance a space, help with privacy and even save you money. If you average out the cost you spend on your window fashions with the amount you save on heating and cooling your home, your treatments will more than pay for themselves.
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Where should I begin?
Start with expert advice. Choose a professional design service, certified in window fashion selection and installation.
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What should you expect from a design expert?
A professional and ethical window design service has the knowledge to help you make the perfect selection for your space. They should provide you with facts and benefits relating to various different treatments, and they should help guide you to select treatments that meet your design and budget goals.
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I want protection from the sun, but I have beautiful windows and don’t really want to cover them up?
In today’s design world, less is more. There are so many new window profiles that look beautiful on their own, many homeowners are finding themselves not wanting to cover them up. However, when those hot summer days come, the heat from the sun can become unbearable. Choosing a blind or drapery that will give you UV protection and insulating qualities [ Summer shading and Winter R-value ratings ] will go a long way to help make your space more comfortable.
Screen weave blinds give up to 98% UV protection. (see photo on right)
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What about noise protection?
If you live in a busy neighbourhood and would like to muffle the outside noises, then sound absorption is definitely something to consider. You can achieve this with cellular blinds or with an insulated drapery.
Honeycomb Duette by Hunter Douglas has an impressive sound absorption rating of .40 to .65 (see photo on right)
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Can I decorate my windows on a limited budget?
If you are on a strict budget but want uniformity in your home, you can accomplish this with alternative woods or metal horizontals. These offer clean lines and give a nice look to any window. They also offer flexibility as you could add to this treatment later with drapery or valances.
Everwoods alternative wood blinds by Hunter Douglas (see photo on right)
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Cottage too Hot?
Three of the top blind choices for cottage life are; cellular, horizontals and screen weave blinds. All three have good insulating values, are easy to use and virtually maintenance free. Cottage life is supposed to be relaxing and fun so why not choose a product that you don’t have to give a second thought to.
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Should a professional install my window treatments?
In most cases, having a professional install your window treatments just makes sense. Besides getting the job done right the first time, many of today's manufactures will only honour your warranty if it is put in place by a certified installer.
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What should I have ready for my first visit with a professional window consultant?
It is always helpful to have swatches of your furniture, paint and flooring or barring that, to bring photos of the space you want to work in. Let your window consultant know what your room is being used for - e.g. TV watching, sleeping, computer etc. and be honest about your budget. Consultants are there to help you make your dreams a reality. A true professional will be able to provide you with the very best choice for you and your space.
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Photos, courtesy of Hunter Douglas Canada.