Window Shades As A Window Treatment Option
Window shades with complimenting window treatments make a window look very well dressed. Window shades come in many styles, materials and prices. The least expensive of window shades is the spring roller vinyl shade. Those types of window shades mechanisms break the easiest. The more expensive types of roller shades come in various materials and room darkening options. There opacities range from sheer, which provide some privacy when the room is darker than the outdoors, to semi-opaque, to total No-Light Total Blackout specifications. In order from least expensive to pricey, the most durable window shades are simple spring loaded fabric shades with side cord and a concealed metal roller on top. The next type of window shade are Pleated shade. Pleated shades include cellular shades. They are called cellular because the material has cells from 1 to three plys that are shaped into honeycomb shapes. These are great insulators and darkening shades. These window shades are made to last because of a raising and lowering mechanism. These window shades in this category can also for an additional charge have energy efficient insulation backing added to the fabrics. Next on the price scale we have woven wooden shades. These types of window shades are made with matchstick thin pieces of wood, bamboo or grass reeds that are woven into various patterns. Because of the porosity of the weaving you get some light and privacy control but if you want the maximum you need to have them lined. They look great with wood, oriental and contemporary décor. The more expensive types of window shades are custom made with silk and other expensive fabrics. Roman shades can fall into this category made with costly silk drapery material. They can be made to fall flat or with cascading folds. You can also get balloon shades, which bellow out in between folds. Puff or tie-up shades puff and tie towards the bottom of the shades giving a nice gathered effect. In general these types of window shades give a full and softer appearance than flat roman shades. With the balloon shades you don’t need to use curtains, drapes or blinds as part of the window treatment. They look like curtains in and of themselves with the practicality of a blind. Customized looks with window shades can include designer hems, various trims, tassels, ornamental pull cords, and complimentary linings to go behind sheer fabrics. Depending on the type of window shades your choose you can also have matching valances, curtains and drapes in the same or complimentary fabrics made to match. You can opt for left or right cord operation, cordless operation or totally motorized window shades. Motorized window shades are remote control operated. Making raising and lowering shades very easy. Window shades these days are just as effective for window treatments as blinds. Depending on the look you are going for they may be the perfect choice for your décor. The care for them is relatively easy as well, all you have to do is wipe them gently down with a damp cloth with a gentle detergent, or spot clean them depending on the type of material used. For silk, satin or lace window shades ask the dealer which is the best way to clean them. They will be happy to tell you the best way to treat them. |
