How To Pick Between Different Types Of Window Treatments

Window shades, blinds, and plantation shutters–oh my! The range of window treatments available might seem overwhelming when choosing one for your Cleveland home. Understanding the pros and cons of each one will help you decide the ideal treatment for your living space and specific needs. Continue reading to explore the different types of window treatments and how they can benefit your household.

The Pros And Cons Of Interior Shutters

Commonly known as “plantation shutters,” interior shutters are built from sturdy materials. They include pivoting panels enclosed in a frame secured to your window. Every panel has a row of tiltable louvers. You can open and shut the panels and turn the louvers to your ideal setting.

The Pros

Because of their robust construction, louvered shutters are able to supply every benefit you want from a window covering:

• An elegant design element for windows
• Neutral colors to match your decor
• Total privacy 
• Superb sunlight control and redirection 
• Easy operation
• Incredible durability and unrivaled longevity from Polywood® shutters 
• Perfect fit for any window shape or size
• Better energy efficiency than other window treatments 
• Greater market value for your home 
• Safe for pets and children 
• Many customizations to personalize how your shutters operate

The Cons

Solid interior shutters don’t appeal to everyone. If you prefer a softer textile on your windows or wish to introduce a pop of color, you should explore some different types of window treatments in Cleveland. 

The Pros And Cons Of Window Shades 

Window shades can be found in numerous styles, but they typically all include a length of fabric attached above the window. Hold the base of the shade and raise or lower it to reveal or cover your window. You can also get motorized shades. You control these with a remote control, wall button, or even a vocal command or smartphone app if you have smart shades. You may also schedule smart shades to uncover or cover your window per a schedule. Motorized shades provide incredible convenience. 

The Pros

Window shades and motorized shades can do a terrific job of obstructing daylight and the view into your living area. Their primary appeal is the numerous styles they are available in. Select from various: 

• Colors
• Designs
• Textiles
• Levels of opacity 

The different window shades have their own benefits too. Roller shades give you a minimalist feel. Cellular shades are energy efficient. Motorized shades of all styles provide more convenient control over sunlight and energy efficiency for windows of all sizes. 

The Cons

Window shades don’t offer the resiliency of solid window coverings and are usually a chore to clean. Their textile panels will eventually fade from exterior light or could become stained, damage, or grow mold. 

Window shades also provide less versatility in balancing daylight and privacy than interior shutters. They can leave openings along the borders or enable shadows to be visible if your lights are turned on at night. 

The Pros And Cons Of Window Blinds 

Window blinds include a series of long slats built from a rigid material that you let down over your windows to conceal them. You may also rotate the slats closed or open for additional control over outside light. 

The Pros

Blinds are designed block daylight and visibility into your Cleveland residence, but their material and quality decide how successfully they do this. While some blinds are considered low-grade, premium wood and faux-wood blinds provide more durability and additional benefits like: 

• Effortless operation
• Longevity
• Aesthetic appeal

The Cons

Even the most well-built blinds have several disadvantages. They can enable daylight to enter around their edges or shift in a breeze, exposing your home’s living area to outsiders. They offer minimal insulation and, due to their construction, won’t endure as well as more durable shutters. They can also be tricky to clean. 

The Pros And Cons Of Drapes

Drapes are created from long, flowing fabric used to cover windows. Their material is generally thicker than curtains and reinforced for better insulation and light-blocking ability. Drapes can use dual panels that you draw back from the midpoint or one large panel that you pull across windows from the sides. They can suspend from and slide along a drapery rod or a track. 

The Pros

Heavy drapes do well at impeding air movement and light when shut. They can be found in various different textures, patterns, and colors to match your home’s design. They give windows an elegant, time-tested appearance many families like.

The Cons

Drapes can present a stiff, formal appearance that doesn’t work for every family. They can look lavish on taller windows but may be difficult to move unless you have motorized options. Drapes also don’t give you many options for controlling sunlight and privacy–they’re either closed or open. 

Ask Sunburst About The Different Types Of Window Treatments In Cleveland

Let the experts at Sunburst Shutters Cleveland help you find the ideal 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 Cleveland. Call us at 440-561-6787 or complete the form below to schedule a free in-home consultation and begin exploring your options!