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Everything You Need To Know When Buying Custom Window Treatments

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Are you in the market for custom window treatments and curtains? If so, there are a few things you need to know before making your purchase. Here's what you need to know about different types of window treatments and curtains available, as well as some of the factors you need to take into account when choosing them.

What is the difference between curtains, drapes, and drapery?

There is a difference between curtains and drapes, although the terms are often used interchangeably. Curtains are lighter window coverings, usually made of fabric, that is attached to a rod or pole near the top of the window. Drapes are heavier, often lined, window coverings that typically hang from more substantial hardware mounted near the top of the window. Drapery refers to both curtains and drapes, as well as the hardware used to hang them.

What lengths do curtains typically come in?

Curtains are available in a variety of lengths, including:

  • Sill: When curtains are referred to as sill length, they are typically just long enough to reach the window sill.
  • Apron: Curtains that are apron length are slightly longer than sill length, reaching a few inches below the window sill.
  • Hovering: This length of the curtain is sometimes called fingertip length. The curtains hover just above the floor with about the width of a fingertip between the hem and the floor.
  • Floor: Curtains that reach the floor with a one to two-inch hem are called floor-length curtains.
  • Puddle: For a very decadent look, puddle-length curtains allow the excess fabric to pool onto the floor.

There are no rules determining what length you should choose. It is purely a matter of aesthetics and personal taste.

What is curtain opacity?

Opacity is a measure of how well a fabric prevents light from passing through it. A curtain with high opacity will block out most light.

  • Sheer: Custom window treatments made from a sheer fabric allow some light to pass through it.
  • Light filtering: A light filtering fabric allows some light to pass through, but also diffuses it.
  • Room darkening: A room darkening fabric blocks most light from passing through.
  • Blackout: When you need all the light blocked in a home theater, for example, blackout fabric completely blocks all light from passing through. You can pair blackout curtains with custom blinds to completely block out all light from entering the space.

It is important to consider how the room is used when determining what opacity to select.

Custom window treatments set the tone of your home. You can make your home feel like a cozy oasis or a bright and airy space with the right curtains.


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