A Common Window Treatment: Curtains

by Christopher Smith

A window treatment of curtains can add a special touch to a room or a window and can also add a measure of privacy. Whatever you end up choosing, a window treatment of curtains can not only add some color or texture to a room, but also can sometimes solve problems you may have with a window.

A Wide Selection

There are many types of curtains and drapes to choose from. One of the most common is the box pleated curtain or drape. These curtains are pre-gathered into pleats at the top of the curtain so that they always have a neat, tailored look. These can be a little more expensive than just a plain curtain, but the extra fullness can add a nice touch to your window treatment.

Another type of curtain is a valance. A valance is a short piece of fabric that only decorates the top fourth of the window. They can come in many colors and patterns, and are usually used along with blinds so that there is still a way to close the window off and have some privacy. If drapes are like a long skirt, a valance is closer to a tutu.

Drapes and curtains can also be used to completely block out light for those who need it completely dark or sleep during the day. These are known as blackout curtains and have a special liner that does not allow any light to penetrate through the curtain itself. The only light you may need to worry about may come around the edge or top of the curtain.

Thermal curtains are a good energy saving method. These keep the temperature more constant in the house, whether you want it cool or warm. This can save on energy costs since cool or warm air is not lost out through the window.

Thermal curtains and blackout curtains can also be good sources for noise blockage. If you live on a noisy street or have to sleep during the day, sometimes outside noise can be disturbing. These types of curtains can help reduce the noise level as well as the light level.

A simpler type of curtain is a cafe curtain, which you usually find in a kitchen. These curtains are usually of light material and often have decorative designs that go well in a kitchen. These are the kinds of curtains you often imagine blowing in the wind in a kitchen.

Whatever type of curtain or window treatment you need, finding one that you like and that goes with your decor can sometimes be a challenge. In addition, if you need bigger drapes or curtains, they can cost quite a bit. However, drapes and curtains are often a longer term investment since you don't usually change them out every year, so find the ones that you like, and hopefully you will soon have a lovely window area to enjoy

Finding the right window coverings is tough. We're here to help you with unique window treatment ideas. Find out more today: http://www.coveringyourwindows.com