Window Treatments : An Overview
By
Ms. Boomika, Student, First B.Sc(Textiles)
Mr. Ramasubramaniam, Assistant Professor,
Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International School of Textiles and Management,
Coimbatore
Introduction :
Window Treatments may be defined as usage of functional and decorative
items placed for emphasizing the windows. The items may be curtains, drapery,
sheers, bilnds, valances and tiebacks. Apart from their decorative purpose they
also have functional utility which includes controlling the entry of light.
Based on application the window treatments can be classified into formal and
informal window treatments. The Formal Window Treatments typically suit
offices and elegant environments, where decoration reflects a serious image.
Their informal counterparts serve the purpose of creating a casual atmosphere
that radiates warmth and coziness. The latter treatments are ideal additions in
family homes with short windows and mission style furniture.
Essential properties
For a material to be used as window treatment they have to fulfill some property
requirements. The properties specified here are as a complete package. However
some properties may be compromised based on their place of use.
The properties are
Anti soiling
Noise absorption
Controlling light flow and creating privacy
Insulation
Aesthetically appealing
Moth proofing
Anti soiling:
Certain window treatments are present in places where dust seems to
enter the room. So making it anti soiling would make it dust and dirt free for a
very long time. It is however a tedious process to remove the fabrics for
washing on a regular basis.
Noise absorption :
The curtains and draperies used in the living room tend to be noise
reductive in order to prevent echoing of sounds. These can be achieved by using
lots of pleats on the curtains.
Controlling light flow and creating privacy:
Though a functional property this seems to be one of the primary
objectives of window treatment. It should also prevent strangers from peeking
into the room.
Insulation :
It should help maintain a moderate temperature by blocking out the
external heat or cold from entering the house and create a comfortable
environment.
Aesthetically appealing:
Since these are items which are present in places where guests come and
go. It is appreciative to have them aesthetically appealing.
Moth proofing:
The presence of curtains usually proves to be hiding spots for insects like
mosquitoes and other insects. So making them moth proofing would ensure the
insects do not stick to the fabrics.
Types of window dressing :
There are nearly 12 types of window dressings discussed here, they are,
1. Roman shades
2. Shutters
3. Solar shade window treatments
4. Wood blinds
5. Faux wood blinds
6. Cellular shades
7. Woven wood shades
8. Panel track blinds
9. Roller shades
10.Sheer shades
11.Pleated shades
12.Drapery
1. Roman shades:
Special features:
One continuous piece of fabric featuring horizontal folds
The folds lay flat against the window when scrolled down but fold up
nicely when raised
2. Shutters
Special features:
They are a classic window treatment choice
They add architectural design directly to the windows
3. Solar shade window treatments
Special features:
They are also known as “window sunglasses”.
They have an opaque design that allows to preserve outside view while
also providing considerable light control.
4. Wood blinds
Special features:
Made of real wood, using various grains and stains, wood blinds remain
durable throughout the years.
Its appearance pair well with the wooden furniture
5. Faux wood blinds
Special features :
Similar appearance of real wood
Affordable since it is made with vinyl or composite wood material.
They are moisture resistant and are an ideal choice for use in kitchens and
bathrooms.
6. Cellular shades
Special features :
They are the best insulators of all energy-efficient window treatment
They get their name and insulating properties from their fabric
honeycomb cells that trap air between the window and the room. This
results in heat gain in the winter and heat loss in the summer.
7. Woven wood shades
Special Features:
Made of variety of materials, including grasses, reeds and bamboo.
They add a casual and natural feel to the living space
Including liners to these increases privacy
8. Panel track blinds
Special Features :
Made of series of fabric panels that slide back and forth to give optimal
light control and privacy
These blinds are a modern alternative to vertical blinds for covering large
windows or sliding glass doors.
9. Roller shades
Special Features:
They are an affordable option for covering windows.
These shades roll up neatly onto a tube, making them appear minimal and
discreet when raised
10.Sheer shades
Special Features:
Sheer shades are an elegant window covering.
These popular window treatments feature two sheer fabric facings over
soft fabric vanes.
When vanes are open, diffused light is let inside, and the outside view is
preserved.
When closed, however, room-darkening styles of sheer shades will
completely block out light.
11.Pleated shades
Special Features:
Pleated shades are made from a single piece of fabric with pleats that
collapse and stack neatly when the shades are raised.
This slat-like effect gives the house a casual, semi-sheer look that allows
a considerable amount of light to filter through the window.
12.Drapery
Special Features:
Drapery adds style and elegance to the house while also providing
functional light control and privacy.
Reference
https://www.selectblinds.com/cellularshades/12cordless-cellular-shades.html#productTabs
http://www.oneentry.com/categories/property_tradesmen/windows_install_repair/buyers_guides/
index.html
https://www.angieslist.com/articles/12-types-window-treatments.htm
https://www.blindsgalore.com/
