Archive for November, 2009

Arch Window Blinds: What to Look For?

Arched windows are some of the most beautiful and elegant windows a room can have, but they can also be the most frustrating. Due to their unusual shape it makes it almost impossible to use regular blinds to block out the light, heat or glare, or to maintain your privacy. The only solution you have is to either cut them to size, which is messy and the results will be less than pleasing, more along the lines of something that has to be hidden, or you can buy special arch window blinds which are designed for this particular purpose.

Arch window blinds come in various shapes and sizes which will be suitable for most mainstream arched windows. However, if your arched window is more unique, there are special blinds which allow you to cut them to the appropriate size. The latter can be shaped to fit into oddly shaped areas and will take a little more time but the end result is well worth it. Of course, you also have the option of getting your arch window treatments custom made to be a perfect fit.

Arch blinds can be either fixed or moveable, with the latter offering you the option to let sunlight in whenever you choose. Fixed arch window treatments are stationary, as their name implies, and are not meant to be moved. If you have a great view and enjoy a bit of sunshine then the best option would be moveable arch treatments so you can have the best of both worlds.

Your arch window treatments can be made of either wood or cellular fabric, depending on the design of your home and your personal tastes. However, cellular arch blinds, also known as honeycomb, provide added insulation making them the best option to save by lowering your heating bill. They come in either double or triple layers with the latter providing the most insulation.

Before going out to buy your arch window blinds the first thing you need to do is get your tape measure. If you don’t know the measurements of your window how are you going to be able to pick out the right-sized blinds? Take the measurements two or even three times because there is nothing worse than coming home, getting ready to put everything up and then realizing your blinds don’t fit because you didn’t quite pay attention when you were measuring.

The two critical measurements you will need are horizontally, at the widest point, and vertically, again from the highest point. Most mainstream arched windows are twice as wide as they are high but there are times when this is not the case. Therefore, don’t rely on vague information and get the tape measure. Now, before you walk out the door!

When choosing the type of arch blind you wish to install consider the blinds you already have and what would match up best. For example, if you have wooden blinds then it would be best to also purchase wooden arch blinds. Whether you prefer them fixed or moveable is up to you, but if you have a lovely view then it would be a shame to waste it with fixed blinds.