What types of window treatments are currently covering your windows? Are you even able to identify their type and purpose? Many homeowners do not fully understand the usefulness of window treatments. They may choose the first window covering that fits their windows. They may choose solely based on color and design. However, window treatments actually serve additional benefits.
Light blocking window treatments
Curtains and shades are sometimes purchased to block out windows. They may or may not be effective in reducing the lighting in a specific room. Choosing the right window treatments can successfully darken a room. You might require or desire light blocking window treatments for naps, unconventional work schedules that require day sleeping, or entertaining movie nights. Light blocking window treatments can come in all different types of coverings, including valences, darkening shades, and blackened shutters.
Reduced energy usage
Your window treatments can also significantly reduce your monthly utility costs. High quality valences and drapes can block out more than the sunlight. When the sun is reduced, the heat is also prevented from making it into the room. The air conditioning can better keep up and the room, or entire house, remains cooler. The same benefit can be found during the winter months. The temperature blocking valences and shades can keep out the cold air, thus reducing the efforts of the furnace.
According to the Natural Resources Defense Council, windows and doors account for approximately one third of a home?s total thermal loss. Additionally, according to the Attachments Energy Rating Council (AERC), window attachments, such as window valences, can improve the performance of windows and save up to 13% of a household?s annual energy use. That can result in thousands of dollars saved over the course of a year.
Increased household privacy
Window valences and window treatments can also increase the privacy of a house. Traditional shades and shutters do not completely block out views from outdoors. Blackening and darkening shades, however, provide effective household privacy. In addition to the privacy achieved with these types of window treatments, the increased privacy could also lead to increased security. Many burglars scan a house before planning the break in. They are looking for household member patterns and any items of value. If they are unable to see into the house, the break in is much riskier.
Overall appeal and design of the house
The window treatments that you choose for your household can also improve the overall look and feel of the home. You can tie together a carefully designed room by the addition of high quality window valences and shades. Window treatments come in a variety of colors and styles, making it easy to pick one that accommodates both your needs and design preferences. While purpose should be the top priority with shopping for new window treatments, design is also important.
Window treatments are a common part of household design. In fact, in spring 2016, about 31 million people in the U.S. said they live in a household that bought drapes, blinds, and other window treatments within the last 12 months. Many people, however, are not aware of the added benefits of professional quality window treatments. While window treatments do look nice and add a level of decoration to the otherwise dull windows, they also increase privacy, reduce the risk of break ins, and cut down on utility costs. An effective window treatment should meet all of these purposes.
