See Superior Results With Custom Window Hardware vs. Off the Shelf
by Amy Meinecke
03 20, 2023 | Posted in Education | 0 comments
- Rod
- Rings
- Brackets
- Finials
- Wands
- Wall of windows (leaving no wall space for rod brackets)
- Tip: Try a motorized ceiling track
- Bay Windows
- Tip: Try a curved or angled rod joined at the corners with hinges. This involves custom-cut hardware.
- Tall, imposing windows
- Tip: Most height issues are from windows on 2 story walls. Hiring a professional installer is highly recommended for this .
- Slanted Windows
- Tip: Choose medallion window shades.
- Shuttered Windows
- Tip: Try a pair of swing-arm rods.
- Recessed Windows
- Tip: Mount draperies just inside the nook, creating a pleasing sanctuary or haven.
- Curved Windows
- Tip: Try a custom curved rod.
- Arched Windows
- Tip: Shutters or honeycomb shades are an excellent option, but so is leaving it bare, with a light cafe curtain across the lower panes of the glass.
- Arched French doors
- Tip: Try curved rods
- Drill
- Metal tape measure
- Level
- Pencil
- Step Ladder
- Wall Anchors
Roman shades are quite luxurious, and they add beauty and style to all of your windows. You have an unlimited supply of fabrics from which to choose in different colors, weights, patterns, themes, and styles. You also have several different types of Roman shades to choose from to match your interior decorating style, as well.
What are Roman Shades?
Roman shades are soft window treatments made of fabric that are a combination of drapery with the functionality of window shades. They are usually made of luxurious fabrics, such as velvet, linen, and wool, and they give depth and texture to your windows. Roman shades are versatile because you can dress them up or down in any room and in any fabric you wish. You can choose to customize them with different fold styles and drape styles. They are easy to operate with a pull cord or a continuous loop cord for child safety. You can also choose to have your custom Roman shades made in a cordless design, and their classic look never goes out of style.Significant Style Variables of Roman Shades
Choosing different options makes Roman shades highly customizable with different shade styles, fabric choices, and hanging options that dictate how they will look in your windows.Shade Style
You can choose from the simplest style of Roman shades to blend in with their surroundings, or you can choose other styles that have more volume and look more luxurious, or anywhere in between.Fabric Choice
Choose a thinner fabric for windows that don't get a lot of heat and sunlight in them so they will be light filtering when the shades are down. For more privacy control, choose a thicker fabric that is room-darkening when the shade is down. The thicker fabrics look best with the fuller styles and are often used in bedrooms for privacy.Hanging Option
You have two main hanging options for your Roman shades. The interior mount option mounts the top of the shade inside the top of your window frame for a clean and crisp look. Otherwise, you may decide to hang your Roman shades on the wall above the window frame. This option makes your rooms look taller, and it doesn't obstruct your view at the top of the window when they are fully opened like the interior mount option.Types of Roman Shades
Standard Flat Fold
The standard flat-fold Roman shade is perhaps the most common type that you will think of when it's mentioned. They have a very sleek and modern appearance. When down, this style looks like a flat sheet of fabric, but when you raise them, the shades stack in horizontal folds at the top of the window. Lighter-weight fabrics are generally used for this style.Plain Fold
The plain fold Roman shade has neat and tidy horizontal folds in the fabric both when it's down or raised to add extra interest and texture as well as depth to your windows. The folds are heavier and wider than the standard flat fold, and medium to thicker weight fabrics work best with this shade.Soft or Hobbled Fold
The soft or hobbled fold type of Roman shade is also commonly called a teardrop or looped shade. The bottom hemline is straight across, but the folds are rounder and softer than other types. This style gives you the most volume at the top of the window when it's opened, and more luxurious and thick fabrics suit it best. When the shade is lowered, you still see the shape or curved folds for an airy or quite romantic feel in a formal setting, such as a dining room.European Fold
Roman shades in the European fold style don't have a rod sewn into the bottom of it, as the other styles do. This gives the fabric a relaxed appearance with a natural curve at the bottom of the hemline that is often called a soft smile. This is a calming and soft style that is perfect for a nursery to create a serene atmosphere, but it also works well in formal settings, such as living rooms and dining rooms.We Help you Find the Perfect Roman Shades for your Home
At Window Works Studio, we understand that it can be quite a task to choose the perfect Roman shades for your windows. We offer a FREE in-home consultation with an experienced designer for window treatments in Jamestown NC. We have the largest selection of fabric, trim, and hardware in the area from which to choose, and we can offer you several solutions for Roman shades that match your decor, function properly, and look beautiful as well. We also guarantee our products and our services to you. Contact us today for perfect Roman shades in Jamestown NC!
The right window treatments can totally transform all of the indoor spaces in your home. There are virtually endless possibilities from which to choose styles, types, colors, textures, themes, and patterns in every type of window shading product you can imagine.
Window treatment options
Window treatments set the tone of the room for you, and just choosing something very simple can deduct from the overall appearance and make it boring and non-inviting. Learning about all the different types of window treatment products and the styles and options as well will help you to make an informed decision to beautify your home while being functional at the same time. The two main categories of window treatments are hard treatments and soft treatments.Window Blinds
Blinds are window treatments with vanes in them for better light control than some other options. Window blinds are considered hard window treatments as they can be made of wood, wood alternatives, metal, or aluminum. Blinds are timeless and can be horizontal or vertical. There are modern blinds that are stylish instead of the old mass-produced vinyl blinds of past years.Window Shades
Shades are available in many different styles as soft window treatments. They are made of fabric or other woven material that can provide your indoor spaces with elegant touches as custom products. You have many options in styles, including luxurious Roman shades, affordable roller shades, energy-efficient honeycomb shades, and casual woven wood shades.Drapery
Drapery for your window coverings gives you the most different styles and options available, especially when you layer your window treatments. Drapery is a soft window treatment that is very customizable for any home. You can also choose a hard treatment as your first layer, and then add drapery on top, or have two or more layers of drapery products for a grand appearance. Choose from drapery panels, sheer panels, valances, and cornices as top treatments, and add any type of trim you wish for embellishments.Shutters
Indoor plantation shutters are a classic and beautiful window treatment that gives your windows an instant upgrade. Made of wood or a composite wood product makes shutters are extremely durable and long-lasting, and they usually come with a lifetime guarantee. You can choose from several styles, such as full panel, tier-on-tier, or cafe shutters. Each style can be painted or stained in any color you desire to match your decor seamlessly.Our Top Tips for Choosing the Right Window Treatments
Budget
You should always make a budget as to what you can afford when it comes to new window treatments. It's very easy to go over budget with all the different options available. One of the most important aspects is to choose quality products from a well-known manufacturer, such as Hunter Douglas. This will ensure that your products are long-lasting and durable to give you full functionality for many years to come.Window Treatment Materials
Your window treatments should be highly functional to fit the room they are in. Choose more sturdy types of hard window treatments if you have pets or small children in your home so they will be more durable. Also, choose a style that is child-safe without any dangling cords to harm little ones. Choose your materials based on how much light and heat you get in the windows. Thicker fabrics and hard window treatments are better at blocking the hot sunlight and UV rays from entering your home while insulating your windows at the same time. For windows that don't get excessive sunlight, you can choose products that are light filtering and pretty.Functionality and Style
Not only do your want your window treatments to control your heat gain and light, but you also want them to be highly functional. Layering window treatments gives you many options and an over-the-top style in each window. Consider hard treatments with drapery panels on top, sheer panels as your first layer, and thicker drapery panels for your second layer. You can close both for total privacy and light control, open the drapery panels and let the sheer panels give you filtered light, or open both to be able to see outside clearly.Color Scheme
Contemporary homes are often either monochromatic or have neutral colors without a lot of patterns in them. Adding window treatments in a solid color that is a shade or two lighter or darker than the walls can make a statement without being too loud, so they blend into the room, but add some interest. Instead, you may want a bright window treatment with added color to make it a statement piece in each room and give it your character and personality, as well.Contact Window Works Studio Today
At Window Works Studio, we are your premier experts for window treatments in Jamestown NC. We have over 13 years of experience in beautifying homes with Jamestown NC blinds of all styles and options. We carry the largest selection of Jamestown NC shades as well to give you many different beautiful options for your home. Contact us today for a FREE in-home consultation to learn about all the exciting modern window treatments available for you!
When you are choosing new drapery fabrics, it's important to know the difference between these two types of window treatments. Curtains use lightweight fabrics and are used in any window, but especially in the kitchen, whereas drapery is made of thicker fabric that is better for privacy in bedrooms. Read on to learn about the most popular drapery fabrics.
Cotton
Cotton is a natural fabric that works best for rooms that don't get a lot of sunlight streaming in the windows, as it is a lightweight fabric. Cotton fabric is available in a huge selection of colors and patterns from which to choose, so you are sure to find a color or pattern that matches your decor seamlessly, no matter what your style is.Pros and Cons of Cotton as a Drapery Fabric
There are actually more pros of cotton for a drapery fabric than there are cons, and it is very affordable as well, making it very popular in window treatment fabrics.Pros Cotton as a Drapery Fabric
- Soft and Breathable
- Machine Washable
- Absorbent
- Good for Sensitive Skin
Soft and Breathable
Cotton is an all-natural fabric that is soft and breathable because air can move through the fabrics, and it can allow moisture of any type to evaporate. These properties make cotton perfect for window treatments in areas where homeowners open their windows for a breeze because the moisture of humid air will evaporate.Machine Washable
Cotton is considered one of the easiest fabrics to keep clean. You can simply take your drapes down and wash them in your washer and dryer at home, making cotton a favorite fabric for kitchen curtains that may get splashes on them.Absorbent
Being absorbent also makes cotton window treatments great for both bathrooms and kitchens, which are considered "splash zones."Good for Allergy Sufferers
Cotton is also a great fabric for allergy sufferers because it can be cleaned thoroughly and often to reduce allergens in the home.Cons Cotton as a Drapery Fabric
- Fading
- Bleeding
- Wrinkling
- Shrinking
Fading
Cotton fabrics don't hold the color very well, and they will eventually fade in bright sunlight, so they don't last as long with a pristine appearance as some other fabrics.Bleeding
When your machine launders cotton window treatments, the fabric can bleed in the washer, especially the darker colors. It's best to wash cotton fabric in cold water if possible to clean them.Wrinkling
After washing cotton drapes may wrinkle even after they have been dried thoroughly in your dryer. The good point is that usually if you hang these drapes right back up after washing and drying them, any remaining wrinkles will fall out.Shrinking
The first time you wash cotton fabrics, they can shrink especially if you wash them in hot water. It's best to use warm water or cold water instead to launder your cotton window treatments.Linen
Double Box Pleated drapery frames multiple french doors in family room. Unique iron drapery hardware with center medallion that mimics finial design. Coordinating down-feather filled pillows. Room design by Maria Adams Design
Pros and Cons of Linen as a Drapery Fabric
Pros Linen as a Drapery Fabric
- Eco-Friendly
- Strong Plant Fibers
- Cool to the touch
- Can be Washed
Eco-Friendly Fabric
Linen is considered an eco-friendly product because it is grown as an all-natural plant without using any fertilizers or pesticides. Flax is pest resistant naturally, so no pesticides are needed to grow it.Strong Plant Fibers
The flax plant has very strong plant fibers to be a long-lasting fabric for window treatments that will stand the test of time without fading or wearing quickly.Cool to the Touch
Linen is cool to the touch, and it also absorbs moisture, although not quick as much as cotton fabrics.Can Be Washed
Most linen drapery panels can be home-washed and dried without shrinking or fading.Cons Linen as a Drapery Fabric
- Wrinkles Easily
- Not Stain Resistant
- Fibers Can Weaken
Wrinkles Easily
Linen can wrinkle quite easily, but when used in drapery, it is hanging from the drapery rod, and this allows the wrinkles to fall out of the fabric pretty quickly.Not Stain Resistant
Linen isn't stain resistant, but instead, it will absorb anything that should happen to get splashed on it, and depending on the item, if it's colored, such as red punch, it will stain your linen fabrics.Fibers Can Weaken
After quite some time if your linen draperies are exposed to a lot of sunlight, the fibers will weaken over time and become thinner and easier to tear, although this takes many years to happen.Polyester
Polyester fabric is often used for home decor and drapery panels. It's a man-made fabric that, until pretty recently, wasn't very breathable as it is now.
Pros and Cons of Polyester as a Drapery Fabric
Pros Polyester as a Drapery Fabric
- Durable
- Easy to Clean
- Wrinkle-Resistant
- Doesn't Fade Quickly or Deteriorate
- Great Insulator
- Anti-Bacterial
Durable
Polyester is very durable as a fabric for drapes, and it is often used as a thicker alternative to cotton.Easy to Clean
Polyester drapery panels can be washed at home in your washer and dryer easily, or you can spot clean them with a damp washcloth and a bit of dish soap.Wrinkle-Resistant
The weight of polyester is heavier than linen or cotton, which allows drapery panels to hang without wrinkling even after cleaning them.Doesn't Fade Quickly or Deteriorate
This easy-care fabric doesn't fade very quickly or deteriorate fast, even when it's in the bright sunlight for many hours a day.Great Insulator
The thickness of polyester fabric also lends itself to being a great insulator in your window treatments that will trap warm air next to your windows in the summer and cold air next to them in the winter to make them energy-efficient window coverings.Anti-Bacterial
Linen is naturally anti-bacterial, so it doesn't harbor dust and allergens in your home.Cons Polyester as a Drapery Fabric
- Flammable
- Distorts When Ironed
Flammable
Polyester is a flammable material and is rarely used in kitchens, or in areas where the windows are very close to a heat source of any type.Distorts When Ironed
After laundering your polyester drapes, you may be tempted to iron them with a hot iron so the wrinkles will all be removed before you hang them back up. Ironing polyester distorts the fibers, and your drapes will not look the same as before, so it's best to just rehang them after drying them and allow time to let the wrinkles fall out.Silk
Silk is a designer fabric that is used widely in homes for draperies to furniture upholstery. It's an all-natural fabric that adds an upscale appearance to your home.Pros and Cons of Silk as a Drapery Fabric
Pros Silk as a Drapery Fabric
- Strong
- Anti-Wrinkle & Crush Resistant
Strong
Silk is one of the strongest fabrics that you can purchase. It can withstand being pulled and stretched to fit on upholstered furniture without every tearing or ripping, making it a strong textile for draperies.Anti-Wrinkle & Crush Resistant
Silk fabrics do not wrinkle easily as some other fabrics do, so this makes it a great choice for window treatments. If heavy objects such as furniture are pushed against it, silk window treatments will not crush, but will retain their shape.Cons Silk as a Drapery Fabric
- Expensive
- Sunlight Damage
- Water Damage
Expensive
Silk is one of the most expensive fabrics on the market for draperies, although faux silk looks the same at a much less expensive price point.Sunlight Damage
When the sun's UV rays shine on silk drapery panels, it will cause the fibers to wear down more quickly than any other fabric of choice. It's best used for windows that don't get a lot of sunlight in combination with a liner on the rear to protect it from sunlight damage.Water Damage
Even a few drops of water on silk fabric create a water stain that you can't remove from it, so it is definitely not a good fabric choice for kitchens and bathrooms.Need Some Help Selecting The Right Drapery Fabric?
At Window Works Studio, we carry the largest line of fabrics for window treatments in Jamestown, NC. For any application, including lacey and soft to heavy and luxurious and everywhere in between, we have fabric for all of your drapery needs. We offer you a FREE in-home consultation with one of our expert designers to help you choose the best possible drapery treatments in Jamestown, NC. Contact us today to see what we can create together!
Shutters vs. Blinds: What’s the Best Option?
by Amy Meinecke
09 07, 2022 | Posted in Education | 0 comments
When people consider whether or not to get shutters vs. blinds, maintenance, price, and functionality always come into consideration. It is critical for homeowners to determine what they want to get out of their window treatments. For instance, they should consider what their lifestyle is like and their ideal price point for purchasing. Both window coverings control the amount of natural light in your home and offer privacy. But what is the difference between the two?
What's the Difference Between Shutters vs Blinds?
Shutters are permanent, solid, fixed, and firm window coverings with varying sizes of louvers. Blinds are coverings made in many different materials and offer straight, clean, and simple lines to dress a window. Blinds are the more classic and straightforward approach. However, many people love shutters for their elegance and durability.Cost
Blinds are often very affordable, but you must replace them every 4 or 5 years. Shutters cost more than blinds. However, they are known to last over 20 years with the proper maintenance and care.Style Choices
Both shutters and blinds have uniquely appealing style options. You can customize shutters to any color you desire, even painting them over time. Blinds can come in many fabrics, patterns, colors, and even materials such as wood. In short, you can modify either window treatment to your liking.Maintenance
Shutters vs. blinds maintenance matters greatly. Shutters always outlast blinds, which often need replacing every 4 to 5 years. Properly cared-for shutters can last around 25 years.Benefits of Shutters
Shutters are a beautiful way of tying the entire room together. Besides aesthetics, the following perks have made shutters extremely popular for years.Increased Privacy
Shutters can fit half your window or the entire window. Therefore, they can offer you more privacy when you want it and lighter when you don't.Design Options
You can paint wood shutters a timeless color like white or black or opt for fun, bold, and bright ones.Easy to Maintain
Shutters vs. blinds maintenance—what is the difference? Shutters require less cleaning, but they still need a bit of dusting. On the other hand, blinds can get very dusty quickly and require care often.Save Money on Energy Bills
Shutters offer improved energy efficiency and save you money on your monthly bills. Investing in good-quality shutters can also eliminate the need for frequent replacements (as can happen with blinds).Increased Property Value
Having shutters on one window frame or many can increase your property value and improve your home’s curb appeal. Potential homebuyers will see the care put into the home and deem it a step above the rest.Benefits of Blinds
Blinds are often the first option that comes to mind when considering window treatments or coverings. Blinds work perfectly for small spaces and add finishing touches to a room.More Material Options
Compared to shutters, there are more material options for blinds, such as wood, metal, faux wood, aluminum, plastic, and more. You can make your easy-to-operate blinds exactly how you want them.Strength and Durability
Bamboo or wood blinds provide your home with durability and strength. Your blinds can last a while if you select a sturdy material for your windows.Affordability
Blinds are typically accessible for many and are found at numerous local retailers to accommodate many budgets. You may not mind replacing them every few years because you will not have to pay the cost of expensive shutters.Provides Full Privacy
You can shut your blinds completely from the outdoors and award yourself privacy. Let the light in on days you want the sunshine, and close them as you see fit easily.How to Decide on Shutters vs Blinds
When deciding between these window treatments, you must consider shutters vs. blinds maintenance, placement in your home, and budget. However, both options are excellent Jamestown, NC window treatments. When you contact us today, Window Works Studio Inc can show you the best Jamestown, NC shutters and Jamestown, NC blinds during a free consultation. Finding the best Jamestown, NC window treatments are easy with Window Works Studio. Whether you want to purchase the best Jamestown, NC blinds or install the longest-lasting Jamestown, NC shutters, our business is ready to help. Call us today at (336) 854-6085!
When you choose window blinds for your custom window treatments, you have many different styles, kinds, colors, and materials from which to choose. It can be a bit overwhelming, but we are here to help you sort them out.
What Are Window Blinds?
Some people use the window treatment terms of window blinds and window shades interchangeably, but they are actually two different products. Window blinds have slats in them that can swivel to let some light into your home. You can also raise them all the way to get a lot of sunshine and warmth in cooler months or you can close them entirely in the summer to block out harmful UV rays and heat.Why Choose Window Blinds Over Other Window Treatments?
Window blinds give you countless amounts of fabrics, materials, colors, patterns, and styles from which to choose. You are sure to find window blinds that you truly love with such a huge selection available. Some blinds are made of wood, PVC, or aluminum and these are very durable in high-traffic areas, especially for families with small children and pets. Blinds hold up to wear and tear much better than window shades do.Types of Window Blinds
You have several types of window blinds to block out harsh UV rays and heat while making a statement of your windows at the same time. Cordless versions of blinds are easy to use and convenient and they are child and pet safe with no dangling cords.Venetian Blinds
Venetian blinds are the type of window blinds most people think of when shopping for window treatments. They have horizontal vanes that slightly overlap each other and you can tilt the vanes open for partial light in a room. You can also open or close them entirely if you choose.
Vertical Blinds
Vertical blinds are a perfect choice for large windows or sliding glass doors. They open horizontally so you can have access to a patio door easily. The vanes are attached at the top of the window or door sill on a sliding rack and they hang down vertically.
Roman Blinds
You can have an instant upgrade in your home with luxurious Roman blinds. They are made from fabric to add a touch of class to your windows. Roman blinds work best in small to medium-sized windows in living rooms and bedrooms. You can also have a thermal backing on them to add an additional layer of insulation to your windows. For babies and toddlers as well as shift workers, you can add a blackout lining to keep bedrooms dark and make it easier to sleep in the daytime.
Roller Blinds
These blinds are very versatile and they are made of fabric in many different weights, types, colors, and patterns. They have a sleek design to add the finishing touches to any room in your home. You can operate them with a child-friendly cord or add motorization to them to add to your Smart home. For kitchens and bathrooms, choose a moisture-resistant fabric, blackout fabrics for bedrooms, and light and lacey fabrics for light filtering.
Wooden Blinds
There is no denying the beauty of wooden blinds with the lovely swirls and whorls of wood grain that are accented even further by your choice of stain or paint color. Custom wooden blinds are very popular for their stylish finishing touches and they give you great lighting and heat control. You can motorize your wooden blinds for windows that are hard to reach or for skylights for your convenience.
Window Blinds Materials
Choose from a large assortment of different materials for your blinds.Fabric
Fabric blinds give you the most choices in colors, patterns, and textures to seamlessly match your home decor no matter what the style is.Vinyl
Vinyl blinds are easy to keep clean and maintain. They are very durable and work well in homes with small children and pets.Wood
Wooden blinds are very heavy and durable for your window treatments. You can choose from many different paint colors or stains to finish them in flawless style,Faux Wood
These blinds look identical to hardwood blinds but they are man-made to withstand heat and moisture as well as cracking, breaking, or fading, making them a great choice for bathrooms and kitchens. Faux wood blinds are also at a lower price point than hardwood blinds.Plastic
Plastic blinds are usually the least expensive option for you. They are available in many different colors and they are a long-lasting and durable product for many years.Metal
Metal blinds are very durable and work well in high-traffic areas of your home or in windows that you will be opening and closing on a daily basis. You can choose from many different colors.Things to Consider When Buying Window Blinds
Light and Privacy
Consider how much lighting control and the privacy levels you need in each window before choosing your new custom window blinds.Budget
Blinds of all types are budget friendly and you can find several styles while staying within your budget.Safety
Choose cordless blinds in any style for child and pet safety or add motorization to your blinds for the ultimate safety and convenience in your Smart home.Maintenance
Window blinds made of hard materials are very easy to maintain and keep clean. Fabric blinds may need to be dry cleaned depending on the type of fabric you choose.Find the Right Style
With all the options available in window blinds, you are sure to find the perfect fit for any window in your home.Conclusion
Our highly experienced team of interior designers at Window Works Studio can help you to choose the best options in Jamestown, NC window treatments. We can show you many different options that will suit your needs in your FREE in-home consultation. Window blinds allow you the option of having window treatments that blend in with their surroundings in solid neutral colors or you can choose fabulous fabrics to make your windows a focal point in the room. Contact us today for blinds in Jamestown, NC. We look forward to meeting you!
Kitchen Window Treatments: Tips from Experts
by Margaret Harvey
08 18, 2022 | Posted in Education | 0 comments
Kitchen windows get a lot of attention, because people hang out in the kitchen together, they cook and clean in the kitchen and it completes your decor if you choose window treatments to complement your other items in your kitchen, whether it is your cabinets, countertops, or molding. You have several different styles from which to choose for your kitchen window treatments. It does matter where your kitchen windows are located as to which types will work best for you. Some window treatments don't hold up as well as others if your kitchen window is above your sink.
Top 5 Kitchen Window Treatments
For kitchen windows, the top 5 choices of window treatments are window shutters, solar shades, woven wood shades, faux wood blinds, and Roman shades.Window Shutters
Window shutters are quite formal looking in their appearance with wide louvers on them. You can tilt the louvers to let some sunlight in, or you can swing the shutters open to the sides of the window to let natural light into your kitchen with an unobstructed view of the outdoors. Shutters are not ideal for a window over your sink, unless you choose faux wood instead of hardwood shutters. Faux wood is treated so it resists warping, breaking, splitting, and yellowing over time and they are excellent choices for humid areas, such as bathrooms and kitchens. You can have your shutters painted or stained in the color you desire and they will last you a lifetime without the need to replace them.Solar Shades
Solar shades are a type of roller shade that has a screen-like material on them to allow light into your kitchen windows, but they also block out the heat and UV rays of the sun to keep your kitchen cooler. You have many choices in the opacity of solar shades to let a little bit of filtered light in or to allow a lot of sunlight in your windows. You still maintain a great view of the outside world when they are closed, but people on the street and neighbors can't see inside your windows. You can raise and lower your solar shades to allow a specific amount of light into your kitchen. Solar shades can be easily cleaned with soap and water, so they are a good choice for over the sink.Woven Wood Shades
Woven wood shades have an earthy feel to them, which is considered very casual and they pair very well with coastal or beach-themed kitchens. They are made from bamboo, jute and other grasses that are woven together to make a sheet of woven wood and they operate as a roller shade does. The tighter the weave, the less light that can come in your windows. The color palettes are shades of browns, greens, and other natural colors as well. They add a lot of personality to a white kitchen or a neutral color to make your windows more dramatic. You can raise and lower your woven wood shades to any height you wish.Faux Wood Blinds
Faux wood blinds are a great choice for kitchen windows because if water happens to splash on them, it won't harm anything and if a messy spot of food or drink splashes on them, you can merely wipe it off with a damp cloth. Faux wood blinds are treated with the same products as faux wood shutters so they are long-lasting and very durable. You can also have them stained or painted in any color you choose to match your decor seamlessly.Roman Shades
Roman shades are made of fabric and this gives you an almost unlimited amount of fabric weights, solid colors, patterns, and a lot of styles. Patterns and stripes can make your kitchen feel light and graceful to add sophistication and flair to your windows. If you have a window over the sink, you will want to choose an easy-care fabric for your Roman shades. If they get something splashed on them and spot cleaning isn't helping, you can take them down and soak them in warm soapy water in the bathtub and scrub them gently with a sponge. Rinse them out very well and lay them on a flat surface to air dry for a few days before hanging them back up.Let's Start Shopping for Kitchen Window Treatments!
You can match your kitchen window treatments to just about any item in the kitchen that you like the most. They can match your walls, flooring, countertops, molding, or cabinets in color to fit in with your main color palette. At Window Works Studio, Inc., our highly talented designers have over 20 years of experience in making windows shine with window treatments in Jamestown, NC. We offer a FREE in-home consultation and help you make the best decision for your windows while giving you a lot of different choices. Contact us today to get started on beautifying your kitchen with shades in Jamestown, NC!
mote control, but some work through simple touch. For example, motorized blinds by Hunter Douglas feature a Soft Touch model that are moveable with a gentle push or pull of the wand. Many motorized blinds are battery operated, but some are hardwired for an electrical connection. There are even a number of options for solar-powered motorized blinds.
Motorized Roman shades are another option. We custom design and fabricate Roman shades at our shop here in Jamestown, offering you the fabrics, prints, patterns, and colors you want for your home. Plus, we can then motorize and install the shades for you.
If you prefer the look of drapery, but still want a motorized product, we can use custom drapery rods that open and close with the touch of a button. These custom rods can plug directly into your electrical outlet or work with a rechargeable battery.
Top 3 Benefits of Motorized Blinds and Shades
While they may seem like a luxury, motorized blinds offer a number of benefits for any homeowner:
- They're child and pet safe.
- They make it easy to operate blinds in difficult-to-reach locations.
- They allow you to customize the lighting in your home- without the hassle.
Ready to bring safety and convenience to your window coverings? Motorized blinds and shades are the answer!
Choose from a wide range of motorized blinds-and we can custom design your motorized Roman Shades and Drapery!
Call us at 336-854-6085 to learn more.
6 Ways Energy- Efficient Curtains Improve Your Home
by AmyB
05 10, 2021 | Posted in Education | 0 comments
Homeowners are always looking for information on how to save money on heating and cooling. So, today we’re going to address six ways that energy-efficient curtains can improve your home—and reduce utility costs.
#1: Energy-Efficient Curtains Help You Save Money on Utility Bills
Insulating material is rated by R-values. The higher the value, the more insulating effect you achieve. Most energy loss occurs through the windows of your home. This is because windows have a lower R-value than walls. And older homes with original windows cause homeowners much discouragement as cold air seeps into their homes during winter.
So, how to make your home more energy efficient ? Window treatments are a great place to start. To achieve better energy efficiency, you need window treatments that exceed an R-1 value. Professionally installed thermal curtains can achieve up to R-6, significantly reducing heating and cooling loss—which equates to savings on your utility bills.
Cold Season
During winter, most homes experience heat loss and cold air influx through windows, which attract heat then transfer it from the interior surface to the exterior. As warm air escapes, your home heating bill increases.
Hot Season
During summer, homes experience the opposite. Cool air, often cooled by central air conditioning, collects on windows. The windows, in turn, transfer that coolness from their interior surfaces to the outdoors.
As your central air works harder to maintain the cool temperatures in your home, it needs more energy. Your energy bill increases, and your central cooling system’s life expectancy decreases.
Are you considering energy-efficient home improvements?
Schedule a consultation TODAY to discuss the best energy-efficient curtains for your indoor AND outdoor spaces.
#2: Drapery Can Save Energy and Reduce Noise
Want to block traffic noise while you’re trying to sleep? In addition to keeping your home warm or cool, drapery and thermal liners add a noise-reduction layer to your energy-efficient curtains for bedroom windows and more.
Cellular Shades
Manufacturers have copied nature to create these highly effective, energy-efficient window treatments. The cells, which resemble a honeycomb, trap air inside their pockets. This trapped air provides a layer of insulation that prevents windows from transferring warmth or heat from inside your home to the outdoors.
Shutters
Shutters are an attractive addition to your interior décor that also provides another layer of insulation for your windows. Installed securely to the window frame, shutters close gaps that tend to allow indoor air to escape and outdoor air to infiltrate your indoor spaces. And closed shutters provide the same benefits as light-blocking curtain liners.
Solar Shades
Do you wish you could bring the outdoors indoors? Solar shades allow you to see the beauty that surrounds your home without compromising energy efficiency. This solution blocks UV rays with an opaque and sufficiently transparent material that satisfies your desire to incorporate your unique view or landscape into your interior design.
Roman Shades
Created with a thick insulating material, roman shades present another opportunity to save money on your energy bill while beautifying your interior. Appropriate for modern or classic design, roman shades with thermal backings provide a uniquely stylish energy efficiency that you can match to your room’s décor.
#3: Interlining Adds Luxury and Protection
Draperies often include an interlining between the outer layer and the backing. These inner linings can be made from flannel, cotton, or even silk. They provide volume and fullness to your drapes, creating a luxurious look and allowing the drapes to fall elegantly over the window. Plus, they also add to your draperies’ energy efficiency.
Does your home include stylish bay windows?
Do you know how much energy your home loses through those gorgeous French doors?
Enhance your home’s beauty and improve energy efficiency with luxurious interlined curtains for bay windows. And energy-efficient curtains for French doors can help stop those energy dollars from escaping your bank account.
#4: Blackout Liners Protect Your Curtains from Fading
Do blackout curtains save energy? They do if they’re thermal blackout liners. And that’s not all. Liners behind your main curtains serve even more functions that improve your home. Have you ever noticed that patio cushions fade at different rates? That’s because if you don’t rotate them around your patio table, the pillows that stay in the sun the longest fade faster than those that get more shade.
Well, the same thing can happen to your curtains. Lining them with blackout liners can block the sun’s rays. This will extend the life of your curtains and ensure that they’ll fade more slowly and at the same rate.
#5: Drapery and Blackout Liners Block Light
One distinct advantage of energy-efficient curtains shows up in bedrooms. Energy-efficient curtains designed with thermal blackout linings not only reduce your utility bill but also block sunlight. You can make your child’s bedroom a cozy little den during the day, which helps induce sleep!
#6: Blackout Liners and Drapery Add Privacy
You also experience additional privacy with energy-efficient thermal linings. Sure, any curtain can help maintain your privacy, but blackout liners further add to your privacy. You can use them as a standalone treatment or behind curtains for living room, kitchen—or anywhere.
Plus, Layering Can Provide Optimal Energy Efficiency
Just like layers of clothing, layering your window treatments can improve energy efficiency. One popular solution is to layer blinds, shutters, or shades underneath draperies. You can also layer roller shades under roman shades.
And layering provides a lot more control over your environment. For instance, dual shades allow the flexibility to take advantage of daylight hours to let in sunlight from one type of shade. Then, you can pull the other shade down for privacy and block streetlights at bedtime.
Outdoor Curtains Add Another Energy-Efficient Layer
Do you have an outdoor patio? Outdoor curtains can provide an insulating buffer between the outdoors and your home. This approach also enhances privacy and brings luxury to your outdoor patio space.
And what leads to that patio? You need curtains for sliding glass doors as well in order to create privacy and stop the energy drain from your wallet.
It’s time to make a change that both improves your energy efficiency and positively affects your cash flow. Explore your options with Window Works Studio for stunning window treatment décor that saves energy in your home.
Window Works Studio designs and installs custom curtains that beautify your home AND improve energy efficiency.
Call us TODAY! Your Local Energy Efficiency Experts for Curtains — Greensboro, NC
7 Super Easy Tips to Make Your Windows Look Bigger
by AmyB
03 05, 2021 | Posted in Education | 0 comments
Nothing draws the eye in a room like large, beautifully dressed windows. But what if your windows are lacking- or, they simply don't live up to the proportions of the room? No need to worry! We have some super easy hacks on how to make your windows look bigger! Try These Simple Tricks Making windows look bigger often comes down to creating a trick of the eye. With the right fabric, rods, or even furniture arrangements, you can create an impact without investing in a renovation. Try these seven tips for big results:
- Re-Hang your curtain rod, cornice board, or lambrequin. Instead of hanging it just over the window, move it up and out. Interior designers have varying opinions on just how far to go, but most agree that four to eight inches in either direction can create the right illusion without looking out of place. For a more dramatic look, feel free to push the limit.
- Invest in longer, wider curtains or sheers. With your hardware extended, you'll likely need bigger curtains to cover the added real estate-ensuring the window covering extends all the way to the floor without draping, and reaches the edges of the new width boundaries. Your new dimensions may create unconventional sizing requirements. So, choosing custom window treatments will allow you the advantage of having curtains made to your exact specifications.
- Consider a new for color your window coverings. Light colors, in general, can make both your windows and room look larger. To really create a visual perception of more space, consider window coverings that match the color of the walls-as long as it's not a dark color. A dark shade will make the entire space look smaller.
- Choose patterns that emphasize direction. If you want to add a perception of height to your windows, go with a window covering that has a vertical pattern. If it's width you want to accentuate, go with a horizontal pattern.
- Don't skimp on fabric. Flimsy sheers and drapes can draw attention to the extra space you've created between the window and the curtain rod, cornice board or lambrequin. Go with a thick, sturdy fabric for a professional look that draws attention toward the curtains and away from the optical illusion you've created.
- Reorganize your room. Don't crowd your windows with furniture-ensure there's plenty of room for the curtains to hang properly without furnishing against or directly in front of them. Framing the outer edges of your new window area with side tables or arm chairs can also visually extend the width of the windows. One of our favorite tricks is to hang a large mirror on the wall across from the window. This lets more light into the room, giving the illusion that the windows are bigger.
- Go fabulous. No one will notice the size of your windows if you have beautiful, high-quality window coverings they can't take their eyes off of! Window Works Studio can help with that. We create custom window coverings that complement your particular space and design aesthetic, while adding a Wow! factor.
