Buying Window Treatments? Avoid These 6 Common Mistakes

Buying window treatments can be tricky. And the vast amount of information available on the Internet doesn’t do any favors. Whether you’re looking for blinds, curtains, or shades, avoiding some common mistakes can save you from unnecessary stress and hassle.

Here’s a short guide explaining six common mistakes homeowners make when buying window treatments and how you can avoid them:

1. Ignoring the Purpose of the Room

Before you flip through catalogues and visit stores, ask yourself, What is the purpose of the room? For instance, heavy velvet drapes will look excellent in a formal living room, but they would be impractical for your kitchen. 

Always consider what activity takes place in a room. Bedrooms often require blackout curtains or blinds for comfort and better sleep. Whereas a kitchen mostly benefits from moisture-resistant options, such as faux blinds. For living rooms and home offices, light-filtering window treatments are the way to go. 

2. Neglecting Privacy Needs

Aesthetics aren’t everything. A lot of homeowners choose window treatments that don’t provide the right level of privacy or security for the room.

For instance, hanging sheer curtains in a bathroom isn’t wise. Instead, opt for opaque materials or layer window treatments for maximum privacy. 

3. Not Taking Accurate Measurements

Imagine spending thousands of dollars on window treatments only to realize they don’t fit. Many homeowners don’t take accurate measurements, which turns a once-exciting project into a hassle. 

Not measuring accurately can lead to treatments that are too small or too long. It might leave gaps for light and privacy. Moreover, curtains that drag awkwardly across the floor ruin the overall aesthetic appeal of your home. 

Use a steel tape measure for accuracy. Measure each window at least twice, checking the width at the top, middle, and bottom. Windows are almost never perfectly square, so accurate measurements are necessary. 

4. Choosing the Cheapest Quality

Upgrading window treatments can be an expensive endeavor. But choosing the cheapest quality can cost you more in repairs or replacements later on. 

Low-quality window treatments wear out quickly. It’s best to go with reliable contractors. If you’re looking for window treatments Seattle, assess the reputation of different contractors. Compare their features and check customer reviews to make an informed decision. 

5. Forgetting Energy Efficiency

Energy efficiency is more than just a buzzword. If you want to lower utility bills, installing energy-efficient windows is necessary. 

For instance, treatments like honeycomb blinds, thermal curtains, or cellular shades create an extra layer of insulation that helps stabilise indoor temperatures. Honeycomb blinds have small air pockets that keep your home airy and comfortable in summer. 

During winter, you can opt for thick drapes and insulated blinds. They trap heat, reducing the need for excessive heating. 

6. Forgetting Maintenance Needs

Yes, velvet drapes look stunning, but they are also high-maintenance. Moreover, delicate fabrics like silk, lace, or chiffon are prone to stains and dust accumulation, which can impact air quality.  

This is why it’s important to consider the maintenance needs of different window treatments. Roller blinds and cellular shades are particularly known for being low-maintenance. They are easy to clean and last for years.