How To Pick Between Different Types Of Window Treatments

Window shades, shutters, and blinds–oh my! The range of window treatments for sale could seem overwhelming when picking one for your Philadelphia home. Understanding the pros and cons of each option will help you figure out the top treatment for your interior and unique needs. Continue reading to investigate the different types of window treatments and how they might increase your appreciation of your windows.

The Pros And Cons Of Interior Shutters

Frequently known as ”plantation” or “louvered shutters,” interior shutters are made of solid materials. They have hinged panels set in a frame attached to your window. Each panel has a row of rotating louvers. You can turn the louvers and close and open the panels to your ideal setting.

The Pros

Due to their sturdy construction, interior shutters are able to offer every benefit you want from a window covering:

• A beautiful design element for windows
• Timeless colors to harmonize with your decor
• Complete privacy 
• Outstanding sunlight management and redirection 
• Effortless operation
• Amazing durability and unrivaled longevity from Polywood® shutters 
• Exact fit for windows of all shapes and sizes
• Improved energy efficiency over other window treatments 
• Higher market value for your home 
• Child- and pet-safe 
• Numerous custom options to further enhance how your shutters operate

The Cons

Plantation shutters won’t appeal to everyone. If you would rather have a softer textile on your windows or wish to add a splash of color, you’ll need to consider some different types of window treatments in Philadelphia. 

The Pros And Cons Of Window Shades 

Window shades can be found in various styles, but they typically all utilize a section of fabric mounted above the window. Grab the base of the shade and pull it down or up to reveal or cover your window. You might also choose motorized shades. You control these with a remote, wall button, or even a cell phone app or spoken instruction if you choose smart shades. You can also set smart shades to raise or lower on a schedule. Motorized shades offer remarkable convenience. 

The Pros

Window shades and motorized shades can do an excellent job of obstructing light and the visibility into your interior. Their biggest attraction is the numerous styles they come in. Pick from various: 

• Colors
• Patterns
• Fabrics
• Transparency levels 

The different window shades have their own benefits too. Roller shades give you a sleek appearance. Cellular shades bring energy efficiency. Motorized shades of all styles give you more convenient control over sunlight and efficiency for windows of any size. 

The Cons

Window shades lack the sturdiness of more permanent window coverings and are often a chore to clean. Their fabric panels will over time fade from sunlight or might damage, become stained, or grow mold. 

Window shades also give you less versatility in controlling privacy and daylight than louvered shutters. They can leave gaps along the borders or permit shadows to show through if your lights are turned on after dark. 

The Pros And Cons Of Window Blinds 

Window blinds include a sequence of long slats constructed from a rigid material that you let down over your windows to cover them. You may also adjust the slats open or shut for extra control over outside light. 

The Pros

Blinds are made to impede exterior light and views into your Philadelphia home, but their material and quality decide how well they do this. While some blinds are known as flimsy, premium wood and faux-wood blinds give you greater durability and added advantages like: 

• Effortless functionality
• Longevity
• Lasting appeal

The Cons

Even the most well-built blinds have some downsides. They can let sunlight in around their edges or shift in a strong breeze, revealing your home’s living space to onlookers. They give you minimal insulation and, due to their construction, won’t last as well as sturdier shutters. They can also be challenging to clean. 

The Pros And Cons Of Drapes

Drapes are created from long, cascading fabric designed to cover windows. Their material is usually thicker than curtains and reinforced for enhanced insulation and room-darkening ability. Drapes can feature a pair of panels that you separate from the middle or one larger panel that you slide across windows from the sides. They can suspend from and slide along a drapery rod or a track. 

The Pros

Dense drapes excel at obstructing light and drafts when shut. They can be found in many different colors, patterns, and textures to coordinate with your home’s design. They give windows a graceful, traditional appearance many families like.

The Cons

Drapes can impart an overly formal appearance that doesn’t work for every home. They can seem elegant on taller windows but can be challenging to operate unless you get them motorized. Drapes also don’t have many options for governing light and privacy–they’re either open or shut. 

Consult With Sunburst About The Different Types Of Window Treatments In Philadelphia

Let the experts at Sunburst Shutters Philadelphia assist you in finding the right window treatment. We have a wide variety of choices, and we’ll help you choose a product from the numerous different types of window treatments in Philadelphia. Give us a call at 215-874-4897 or fill out the form below to arrange a free in-home consultation and start investigating your options!