If you believe there is no such thing as a mistake in picking and installing window treatments, think again. Mistakes can range from measuring the window incorrectly to calculating the occupied space on each side of it. It can also be purely ornamental, such as using curtain panels that are far too short and choppy for the window.
Here are six frequent window treatment problems that experts see, as well as how to fix or avoid them.
Ignoring Function
Homeowners often ignore function in favor of beauty. In reality, it is important to consider both when choosing treatments, whether they are blinds or curtains in Dubai.
Window treatments are great solutions for light control, privacy, and insulation, and it’s important to think through those needs, too,” says Erica Bail, Graber’s creative director.
She suggests bringing tangible swatches of the window materials into the room so you can see and feel them in the location where you will be living. That way, you’ll not only know if they’re a good fit in terms of design, but you’ll also be able to hold them up to the window and see what kind of light control and privacy they provide during the day and night.
Being too exact
If you opt to use draperies, Dubai Curtains, recommends against fitting and mounting curtain panels too precisely to the window. For optimal results, she recommends installing the curtain rod a few inches above the window trim. Meanwhile, the cloth should be long enough to just touch the floor.
People hang the rods too low and close together,” Susan Hayward, the founder of Susan Hayward Interiors, says. “Lifting the rod as high as possible will make your window feel taller.
Similarly, try not to align the rods horizontally with the frame.
People often don’t extend drapery rods far enough beyond the window frame, which results in the fabric blocking too much of the window when stacked,” explains Allison O’Connell, head of decor for MR Architecture + Decor.
Incorrect measurements can lead to significant gaps between shades and blinds, necessitating more precise fitting. If you have an unusual window size or have underestimated the proportions, you should consider getting custom-made treatments.
However, if you want to preserve your present badly fitted blinds or shades, add curtain panels.
“Drapery is a stylish way to add dimension and texture to a room and has the added benefit of covering up light gaps,” Bail said.
Blocking Vents
Dubai curtains typically recommends a slightly longer drapery length, but cautions against hanging drapes in front of or blocking heating or air conditioning vents.
“This causes the fabric to constantly flutter or billow, which is not only distracting but diminishes any aesthetic or functional benefits intended,” O’Connell said. “Draperies should be well tailored, like a dress or trousers—not too long or too short.”
Gideon Mendelson, founder and creative director of the Mendelson Group, agrees. If you have a radiator, a heating unit, or another enclosure under a window, Mendelson suggests using Roman shades.
Going Overboard
Consider whether the stack (the amount of area curtains take up when fully open) is excessively bulky or cluttered.
“Full stacks can often overwhelm a room and make placement of furniture on adjacent walls tricky,” according to Oswald.
She recommends using straightforward ornamental panels on windows instead of layers of treatments that are only necessary for aesthetics.
Forgetting the user
People often overlook the lift system when it comes to blinds and shades. It appears small at first, yet it is critical to consider user accessibility and safety.
Are the users physically unable to operate particular lift systems, or are they too short to perform treatments on larger windows without using a step ladder? Who are the other occupants of the house? Do any children have the potential to tangle in cords or worse, sustain injuries?
“Cordless options are convenient and the safest for homes with children and pets, but they may not be ideal for tall, out-of-reach windows,” Bail said.
In some circumstances, she suggests looking into motorized systems. Finally, to achieve the best results, examine the area and how you will interact with the window coverings on a daily basis.
Additional Designer Tips:
To make windows appear taller, hang outside-mounted shades on the ceiling, concealing the wall area above the window frame. Beyond making the window appear taller, Mendelson explains that it’s a great way to bring verticality to a space.
When placing inside-mount Roman shades on a deep window, attempt to position them near the window opening’s front.
Finally, do not be dull. Mendelson explains that while some clients prefer neutral window coverings, others can take advantage of this opportunity to incorporate color and design. Don’t be afraid to use something colorful, contrasting, striking, and graphic, as window coverings are much easier to change than large-ticket goods.