From blocking out the sun’s harsh rays to providing privacy, absorbing noise and reducing heat loss, window treatments fulfill a number of functions, but with so many options available, choosing the right ones for your home can be a challenge. eieihome spoke with Melissa Raine of Hunter Douglas Canada – manufacturers of quality, custom-made window coverings – for tips on choosing the best window coverings for your home.
Determine the purpose
Before stepping foot into a store, Raine encourages homeowners to first think about what functions they want their window coverings to perform. “If you’re going to make the investment, it’s important that you get the right window covering for your needs,” she says. If you’re purchasing window treatments for a child’s bedroom, for example, blackout and safety may be your top concerns. Whereas your living room would be better served with reducing glare and optimizing natural light. Knowing the function you want your window coverings to serve is the first step to determining the best type for your space.
Choose your operating system
Do you want to be able to control your shades or blinds by pressing a button on a remote control? How about from your smartphone? Hunter Douglas’ Platinum app allows homeowners to control their blinds with their iPhone or android device. “If you’ve crawled into bed and you don’t want to get up to close your blinds, you can just pick up your phone and close them,” says Raine.
Let in the light
While traditional blinds offer the option of an open or closed blind, Hunter Douglas’ line of Pirouette, Luminette and Silhouette window shadings allow for greater light control, privacy and UV protection against the sun’s harsh rays.
Narrow down your options
To help you narrow down window covering options, Hunter Douglas offers an online product advisor that walks you through a series of questions. These include questions regarding functionality, location, light control and operating system, which help you determine the right product for their needs. Armed with new knowledge and a shortlist that suits your needs makes choosing window coverings a breeze.
