Sponsored by Graber® Window Coverings
Easy steps to
custom window
coverings
WHEN YOU’RE REDECORATING a room, building a new home or noticing that
cold draft coming through a window, it’s time to think about window coverings.
Here are a few things to consider to make your custom window-covering
purchase easy and fun.
How do you use the room? Do you need extra privacy? Are you concerned
about energy efficiency? What’s your personal style?
Window coverings can drastically affect the mood and ambience within a
room, depending on how they affect incoming light. On one end of the spectrum, they filter light so it is gently diffused throughout a room; on the other
end, they block light completely for privacy and darkness.
Window coverings complement any style—casual or elegant, traditional or
modern. They’re made with soft, sheer fabrics or strong, durable materials.
Whatever your need, there’s a window covering that’s right for you.
Here’s a look at some of the options
Wood blinds make homes warmer in winter and cooler in summer, keeping ever-rising energy costs down. They’re available in a variety of rich stains
and contemporary paint colors to complement other finishes or furnishings in
your home.
Concerned about the environment? Insist on wood blinds made from 100
percent North American hardwoods, a sustainable and renewable resource.
Composite blinds, with their authentic wood-grain appearance, are the perfect alternative to wood blinds. Choose these when the room’s function calls for
an alternative to real wood. Where room-darkening wood blinds are appropriate
for the bedroom or dining room, composite blinds are more suitable for the
bath or kitchen as they do not absorb moisture. Composite blinds, or “faux
wood” blinds, are made of synthetic materials and are typically more economical than wood, yet as substantial and durable.
Cellular shades present a softer look at the window, yet provide the highest
level of insulation of any window covering. Their construction forms pockets of
air to keep out winter cold or summer heat. Wider fabrics effectively, and beautifully, cover the larger windows that are so popular in today’s newer homes.
Fabrics are available in three opacity levels (light filtering, room darkening or
blackout) and in a color palette that ranges from neutral to vibrant.
Want even more choices? Consider sleek, contemporary fabric or vinyl vertical blinds. Many vertical styles coordinate with timeless Roman shades and classic pleated shades. For more casual décor, choose natural shades in woven
bamboo, jute, reed or straw. Consider solar shades for the exceptional ultraviolet light protection they provide. And don’t forget about colorful and affordable
1-inch aluminum mini-blinds.
