While day-to-day DIY tasks seem to be becoming more attractive to homeowners, many people who would willingly sand a floor or fit new handles to all their doors seem to be a little in awe of undertaking window treatments. If you are one of these people and you are worried about tackling an overhaul of the windows in your house, then think again. There are some great solutions out there just waiting to be explored. Here are a few of the simplest and best tips that will help you deal with windows, even so-called problem windows
Designing your solution
Consider the type of house you live in, window shapes, and your preferred decorating style. Some treatments are eminently adaptable to all types, styles, and ages of housing, such as shutters, while others can greatly influence the appearance of specific window shapes and locations. Problem windows may be long and thin, have an arched transom window above the main window, or be circular, like a porthole in a ship.
Curtains and drapes
You can enhance windows that are long and thin by dressing an area that is wider than the window itself. For example, if you decide to hang curtains then make sure the curtain pole extends along the wall on either side of the window and is positioned close to the ceiling for maximum effect. Then use sufficient fabric to cover the wall as well as the window when the curtains are drawn. You can make your own drapes in any size that suits you by sewing together more than one panel of the chosen fabric for each curtain, giving you lots of flexibility when designing the effect.
Shutters
Alternatively, install internal shutters on either side of the window so that, when open, they make the window area look bigger. Paint them in a shade that contrasts with the rest of the wall and decorate the space behind the shutters in the same contrasting color so that, when closed, there is an attractive frame around your window. Shutters are versatile and can be fitted very effectively to all types of windows, even circular ones, those arched transoms, and bay windows.
Blinds
If you have a narrow window on the back of a door, or if drapes are too fussy for your taste, you can easily make your own roller blind or Roman shades. Both are very straightforward and require some simple brackets, a roller in the case of a roller blind, and fabric cut to size, as well as glue and pliers. It’s important to measure correctly before assembling your blind.
Window styles
If traditional window treatments are preferred you may want to consider floor-length drapes for living room areas, longer curtains that lie slightly on the floor to create more romantic effects for bedrooms, or sill-length curtains for a more casual approach. An extra layer of fabric at the back of a curtain will add privacy and insulation, and remember that shutters will give you complete privacy, additional security, and control of light and shade.
There are window treatments to suit houses of every type and windows of all shapes and sizes. With a little thought and planning, and careful measurements, you can carry out these treatments yourself without needing to call in expensive professionals.
