Window To Savings And Style: 3 Energy-Efficient Window Treatment Trends For 2016
From furniture and wall art to bedding and rugs, it is easy to see how furnishing your home can be overwhelming. While these elements are important for your home's appeal and family's comfort, installing window treatments should also be a priority. Not only do drapes, blinds, and shutters add privacy and appeal to your house, but they can also increase your home's total value. In addition, certain window treatments can reduce energy costs. Of course, finding the best treatment option for your windows can be challenging due to the large variety on the market. Fortunately, using one of these trends for 2016, you can dress your window in a stylish, energy efficient manner.
Faux Wood Blinds
Mini-blinds may have been popular options in the past due to their affordable pricing, but the plastic-like material used to manufacture these window treatments will not stand the test of time. In most cases, mini-blinds are not a good investment, since they are not durable options for your home. Thankfully, faux wood blinds offer a more durable and attractive treatment for the windows in your home.
Available in a variety of colors and wood tones, you can create a look suited to each room of your home. Their versatile design allows you to prevent solar heat gain and increase privacy by closing the slats, but still give you the ability to let the sun in when you want to enjoy natural light.
Faux wood blinds offer an appealing design that is similar to wood, but they are less expensive and easier to clean, ensuring they will always be a trendy option for homeowners.
Drapes
An estimated one-third of your home's total heat loss occurs through windows and doors, but installing insulated drapes on your windows can reduce this loss and decrease your monthly heating and cooling costs.
Unfortunately, you may believe insulated drapes are ordinary, bland, and unattractive pieces of fabric for your windows. However, you can find trendy options, since insulated drapes are available in a variety of colors and patterns. Here are a few trendy looks to consider when shopping for insulated drapes and curtains:
- Geometric Shapes – Geometric shapes are popular options in home décor, so search for lined drapes with triangles, trapezoids, circles, and even clover shapes to add style and energy efficiency to your space.
- Romance – Your insulated drapes may be heavier compared to sheer curtain panels, but you can find these energy efficient drapes in romantic colors. Opt for pale pink, cream, and even white for classic romance that will never got out of style.
- Stripes – Bold stripes are also stylish options right now. Choose lined drapes with bright and bold horizontal or vertical stripes. For a bit of whimsy, consider insulated drapes with the unique chevron stripe.
- Rustic – The rustic, farmhouse style is definitely a hot trend that will last many years to come. Thankfully, insulated drapes are available in rustic fabrics, such as burlap and linen.
Shades
Window shades may not offer much personality to your windows, but they do reduce solar heat gain while preventing discoloration and fading from the sun's ultraviolet lights. Fortunately, window shades have become a trendy option for homeowners that prefer a simple, minimalist look for their home.
When mounting your shades, make sure the shades are as close to the window glass as possible. This creates a tight seal, which minimizes the most heat loss and gain.
For a bit of personality, layer two sets of shades on each window. Add a darker colored shade closest to the window to block the most sun, but use a lighter colored shade for the top layer for added texture and versatility.
Dressing your windows may not seem like a priority, but with proper choices, it can be a smart investment. Using these trendy window treatments, you can conserve energy, add privacy, and enhance your home's style. For more information, contact a company like Sylvans & Phillips Drapes and Blinds.