Summertime is approaching fast, and now is a great time to think about putting a room darkening or block out treatment on your windows. This not only helps you stay cool, but it also protects your furnishings and artwork from the damaging rays of the sun. I am often amazed at the amount of blinding sun my clients endure year after year when there is a quick and often inexpensive solution to just about any type of sun issue.
There are many ways to block out the sunshine from your home, and selecting the right window treatment depends on many factors. Some questions to consider are, “How dark do you want the room to get?” “Do you want something made from fabric to match other decorative items in the room?” and of course, “How much do you want to spend?”
Every block out treatment is different and the features of each treatment may make it easier to decide on which type to purchase. Solar shades are great for windows with a view. You can diffuse the light and still be able to see outside. However, the more sheer or see through the window covering is, the less light and heat it will block out. Wooden blinds, shutters and vertical blinds do an excellent job of blocking the sun and the advantage of these products are the adjustability of the slats. You can leave the slats wide open, shut them all the way or angle them in-between for the perfect light control.
Cellular shades can come sheer, medium and with a complete block out feature. They are durable, come in lots of colors and they are very lightweight. Cellular shades are so lightweight that they are one of the few treatments in which you can put one long shade in a very wide window. Draperies and fabric shades can match other furnishings and accessories in the room, and they can be made with a light, medium or complete block-out liner. You can even have a two-track drapery rod…one track for the block out liner in the back and the other track for a separate drapery in the front!
So if you haven’t done so yet, consider blocking your windows now before the summer season hits. You’ll protect your home, and it will help you have a cooler and more comfortable summer!
For a free consultation in your home, to help you with your entire home decorating needs, Arlene can be reached at 661-254-2659.