The weather of the city you live in can have a profound impact on your home’s windows’ utility and longevity. This also impacts how you choose to dress them up. For instance, the climate in cities like Pittsburgh, located in Pennsylvania, is characterized by cold winters and humid summers. Therefore, homeowners tend to gravitate toward window treatments that provide insulation during the colder months and allow enough ventilation during the hot months.
If you’re looking for some unique window treatment options, here’s what you need to know:
1. Cellular (honeycomb) shades
Cellular shades are constructed from stacked honeycomb-shaped fabric cells that trap air to provide excellent insulation. These shades are great for controlling the intensity of light flowing into the room on a bright, sunny day in Pittsburgh and can also provide sufficient insulation during winter.
Cellular shades stack neatly when raised and come in many colors to match any decor. They suit most windows, from small bathroom windows to large living room picture windows. You can talk to a replacement window company in Pittsburgh before getting these shades for your home.
2. Roller shades
Roller shades offer a simple look, with fabric rolled around a tube at the top of the window. They come in light-filtering or room-darkening fabrics. Light filtering shades soften the sunlight and provide some insulation while still allowing you to see outside. Room darkening shades block light and are ideal for the bedroom or a home theater.
Roller shades are also great for small, hard-to-reach windows like those in attics or basements. Their slim profile occupies little space, making them ideal for cramped spaces. Opt for automated roller shades for hard-to-reach windows. Vacuum them occasionally with a brush attachment and wipe down the hardware with a damp cloth.
3. Roman shades
Roman shades have a classic look created by folding fabric into horizontal sections when raised. The folds create an elegant, decorative look. Roman shades come in a variety of fabrics, from natural linens to thick, insulating fabrics. They control light well, and their stacked appearance takes up little space, making them versatile for most windows. They bring a decorative touch even when closed.
The luxurious draped effect makes Roman shades well-suited to formal living and dining rooms. Choose breezy, natural fabrics like linen or cotton in neutral hues for a less formal look.
To clean Roman shades, vacuum gently with a brush attachment and spot treat stains. Have heavier fabrics professionally cleaned as needed to maintain their appearance and function. A decorative cornice or valance above a Roman shade can style and conceal hardware.
4. Blinds
Blinds, including vinyl, faux wood, and real wood, have horizontal slats that adjust to control light and privacy. Open slats maintain visibility, while closed slats block light. Adjustable slats make blinds extra versatile – tilt them upwards to let in light from below or downwards for overhead lighting while maintaining privacy. Blinds are easy to install, low maintenance, and suitable for most windows.
Routinely dust blinds with a soft cloth or vacuum with a brush attachment. Use a damp cloth to spot clean slats as needed. Blinds may require a professional cleaning every few years to keep them looking their best. Close blinds when not in use to maintain privacy and protect them from sun damage.
5. Shutters
Shutters for windows come in wood, faux wood, and vinyl. They make excellent light control and privacy solutions for living spaces. Plantation shutters with adjustable louvers allow you to tilt the slats for just the right amount of light and visibility. Try shutters on windows flanking a fireplace or French doors for a chic and functional style. Exterior shutters also enhance curb appeal.
The natural look of real wood shutters makes them well-suited to libraries, studies, and other rooms where you want to create a closed space. Faux wood and vinyl are low-maintenance options. Shutters should be dusted regularly and cleaned with a damp cloth. Wood shutters may require occasional oiling or staining to maintain their finish.
6. Valances and cornices
Valances and cornices add decorative flair above your window. Typically made of fabric, they conceal hardware and complement other treatments like curtains or shades. Plain valances and cornices bring an elegant, polished look to formal spaces. Ruffled valances create a soft, feminine feel. Use them alone or layered with drapes. For small windows, a valance alone can provide enough style.
Regularly vacuum valances with a soft brush and gently spot clean stains. Take down and dry clean fabric valances once a year to keep them looking fresh. Check for fading or damage from sunlight and replace as needed.
7. Curtains and drapes
Curtains and drapes lend softness, texture, and color to a room. Choose breezy, lightweight curtains for unobstructed views and sunlight control. Drapes in heavier fabrics like velvet block more light and insulate the living space. Pinch pleated, grommet top and tab top styles create different draped effects.
Floor-length curtains and drapes add drama and elegance to formal spaces. They frame tall windows beautifully. Choose neutral solids or subtle patterns that won’t compete with other furnishings in living rooms. For bedrooms, pick colors and fabrics that complement your decor.
Vacuum gently and spot clean curtains and drapes regularly. Take them down to have heavyweight fabrics professionally cleaned every year or two to refresh them and remove dust and odors.
8. Bamboo and woven wood shades
Bamboo and woven shades made of jute or reeds have a natural, casual look. Available in various weave designs, these shades diffuse the light beautifully. They come in different textures, from fine bamboo to wide reed shades. Bamboo and woven wood shades suit casual spaces like kitchens, dens, and bedrooms. Add warmth and texture while controlling light and insulating.
Vacuum gently to remove dust and debris. Spot clean stains on bamboo or wood shades with a damp cloth and mild detergent. Allow them to air dry fully before raising them back up.
Conclusion
Your home’s decor calls for versatile and stylish window solutions. The ideas above provide options to match any home’s needs and style. While custom treatments can maximize functionality, many affordable ready-made styles are available. You can dress your windows beautifully with smart shopping and creative pairings.