Window treatments provide a privacy for the inside of your home. However, they can also be stylish and help complete the look and feel of a room. In addition, they can be used to keep the sun from streaming in the windows to keep a room dark or to protect your furniture and rugs. If you are trying to decide how to dress your windows, you should always consider what you are trying to achieve. Here are a few tips for choosing the right type of window treatment for each room.

Shades

Shades are pieces of fabric that are on rollers at the top of the window. They can be either almost transparent or very opaque. You may choose to have the shades rolled up during the day to allow in more light or keep them pulled down all the time for more privacy. They are available in many different colors. If you a want a clean, simple, window treatment that does not attract attention, shades are a good choice.

Blinds

Blinds are either vertical or horizontal. They can be made of fabric covered plastic, metal, plastic, or wood. While they do not come in a great number of colors, there are a few you can choose from. Blinds can be a good way to provide privacy. The advantage they have over shades is the ability to adjust the blinds to allow in just the right amount of sunlight. You can adjust the slats while keeping them pulled closed or pull them wide open. Unfortunately, they can be a bit of a problem to clean. They do provide a bit more of a decorative look and feel than shades.

Curtains, Drapes, and Sheers

Curtains, drapes, and sheers are fabrics hung over the windows. Drapes are usually the heaviest, thickest material and work well to keep out the sunlight and provide additional insulation to the window area. Curtains are thinner but can still provide adequate privacy when closed. Sheers are very thin. They allow the light into a room and only provide a bit of privacy. You may want to hang some sheers under curtains or drapes for a bit or privacy when you do not want the room to be completely dark. All three are available in many fabrics, textures, colors, and designs. If the walls of the room are a plain, neutral color, this type of window treatment will add greatly to the look and feel of the room.

It is best to have the room planned and arranged before you buy window treatments. If you do not quite have everything yet, but need privacy, purchase inexpensive, plain blinds as a temporary measure. You can get the permanent window treatments from a company like Classic Curtains & Interiors when you are sure of what type, style, and design you want.