Choosing window treatments
Treat each window as its own decision. Privacy, glare, heat and cleaning demands vary from room to room within the same house.
What this decision really turns on
Light control
Blackout, filtered or full-light are different products, not different settings.
Heat and exposure
West-facing glass benefits far more from cellular shades or exterior shading than from decorative curtains.
Upkeep
Slats collect dust. Fabric holds odour. Both matter with pets or allergies.
Questions worth answering first
- Which room, and which way does the window face?
- Do you need privacy during the day, at night, or both?
- Is glare on a screen or TV a problem?
- Children or pets near cords?
HOW HOUSE asks these one at a time, then reasons from your answers — and your photos, if you share them.
Mistakes that cost homeowners money
- Hanging curtain rods at window height instead of nearer the ceiling.
- Choosing corded blinds where young children can reach them.
- Blackout in a room that mainly needs glare control.