Light Filtering Window Treatments Tips

Read these 5 Light Filtering Window Treatments Tips tips to make your life smarter, better, faster and wiser. Each tip is approved by our Editors and created by expert writers so great we call them Gurus. LifeTips is the place to go when you need to know about Window Treatment tips and hundreds of other topics.

Light Filtering Window Treatments Tips has been rated 3.1 out of 5 based on 59 ratings and 1 user reviews.

Cellular Blinds are Constructed for Energy Efficiency

There are many blinds and shades on the market, but none is more energy efficient than the cellular blind. Honeycomb or cellular blinds have layers joined at the pleats to form compartments that trap air, providing insulation. It is because of this unique cellular construction that these shades provide the greatest insulation and energy efficiency. The cellular blind of today is soft to the touch, just like fabric. The older, less expensive shades had a paper feel and were quite thin and stiff. The color options are many and they are easily combined with fabric valances for just the right decorating look. Be sure that the shade you have chosen is white on the outside because this looks better from the street and provides a uniform appearance. More considerations before your blind purchase include:

  1. soft neutral colors make rooms appear larger
  2. brighter colors seem bolder in larger rooms
  3. matching the color of blind to the paint on the wall provides a decorating look
  4. blinds that lower from the top provide privacy and let in light
  5. insulated cellular blinds provide warmth in a window facing North
  6. consider motorized devices for opening and closing blinds on large windows or windows over a bathtub

   

Installing Cellular Shades

The beautiful shades you ordered have just arrived. Now it is time to read the directions when it comes to installing cellular shades or any other type of blinds. Providing your have given accurate measurements to the company, your shades should fit beautifully and hang with ease. Installing window treatments require basic tools. The parts of many cellular shades include a head rail, installation bracket, cord lock, end cap, stop ball, cord joiner, pull cord, tassel and bottom rail. Not all shades have all of those parts because it depends on what type of shades you ordered.

There are times that finding a stud to install your shade is not possible. If you are fastening the brackets into sheetrock, brick or tile, plastic anchors or toggle bolts are required. When you install a shade into concrete, brick or stone, use a carbide drill bit and extension anchors. It may be necessary to drill into steel to install your new shades so it is recommended to use a #8 self-tapping screw with pilot hole.

Generally, the first step is to determine the mounting method. This will be either an inside or outside mount. You will already know this because you measured the shades according to this decorating decision. Attach the brackets to the mounting surface. This is also based upon an inside or outside mounted shade. Next, insert the head rail and attach the optional hold down brackets. Prepare to lower the shade to insure it functions properly. Anytime cords are part of a shade's operating mechanism, child safety is a must. Clamp the cord with a clothespin, tie the cord to itself or use a tie-down device for safety.

When shades or blinds are properly installed, they will maintain their beauty and function properly for years to come.

   

The Beauty Of Light Filtering Shades

Light filtering shades may mean different things to different people. I might want to filter a lot of light through room darkening shades. This is practical for energy efficiency and still offers beautiful window treatments. Other light filtering choices are sheerer, translucent blinds and shades that block UV rays yet preserve a nice view outside. Translucent white shades filter the light and reduce the glare of the sun so that your skin and your linens are protected from direct UV light. Blinds sometimes score better for applications where privacy is a priority along with humidity control and ventilation.

Light filtering blinds and shades offer sophisticated elegance as well as functionality. They are an affordable option and provide a maximum view. Make sure the top and bottom rails match the fabric for a complete uniform look in your room.

   

Measuring For Cellular Shades

Cellular shades are called honeycomb shades because they look like beehives. The cells trap air and the more cells the shade has, the more air is trapped. Most shades are made of polyester, but some cotton is also available. The unique structure and construction naturally repels dirt and resists staining. Attached and housed at the top of the window is a head rail and the shades are typically controlled with a pulley cord system. These shades are known for folding neatly when raised just like an accordion. Reverse order shades lower down instead of pull up so privacy is possible with light coming in from the top.

An inside, recessed mount or an outside mount determines measuring for cellular shades. The inside mount is the most common. There is a minimum windowsill depth for shades that are mounted inside. When measuring, use a metal tape measure and do not measure existing shades.

   

Cleaning Pleated Shades

There comes a time in the life of shades or blinds when cleaning becomes necessary. Some companies suggest cleaning shades once a month. It is easier to clean wood or aluminum shades, but the fabric shades need cleaning too. However, these shades must be treated more gingerly. Pleated shades of any material do not hold up well to chemicals or too much dampness or water. Cleaning shades improperly may leave stains or worse.

  1. If you choose to vacuum the shades, clean the bristles of the vacuum frequently.
  2. Use a lint roller of shades to pick up fuzz and dust.
  3. Wipe the pleated shade with a dry sponge found at the hardware store. Newer micro-fiber towels also work well on pleated shades.
  4. If there are bug droppings on the shades, wipe the soiled area only. Use water dampened cotton swab and dip it into some liquid dish soap. Lightly dab the spot and wait thirty minutes. Blot the spot with a lightly dampened cloth.
  5. Store the shades in the closed position to keep the pleats sharp.

   
Not finding the advice and tips you need on this Window Treatment Tip Site? Request a Tip Now!


Guru Spotlight
Sherril Steele-Carlin