4 Window Treatment Options to Help Block Out the Sun
Window treatments provide an important piece of the overall decorative scheme often overlooked by homeowners under the burden of making so many other design decisions. They’re crucial because they help control privacy and light, and even provide insulation.
You should consider the room’s overall function when selecting window treatments. In a bedroom or media room you may want darkness, whereas in a kitchen or living room you’ll need window treatments only to suppress the harsh afternoon sun. Below are four different types of window treatments that help in blocking out the light and aid in your sleep.
1. Roller shades
Roller shades (or mesh solar shades) filter light out without completely blocking the view. They come in a variety of colors and degrees of opacity. Roller shades generally will block out more light than other fabrics making them the most effective window treatment for blocking the sun. Use roller shades as a great option for your bedroom because you can even double them up to provide almost complete light blackout — and a better night’s sleep.
You can dress up shades by a valence at the top or by pairing them with another window treatment, such as a curtain.
2. Cellular shades
Cellulars come in a variety of materials, ranging from mesh to blackout. Mesh cellulars allow more natural light into the room. Blackout cellular shades’ sides run up and down inside a channel, making them extremely effective at blocking light. Cellular shades are the perfect option for a bedroom because they can completely block out the light when closed and also open from top to allow light in without compromising privacy.
3. Draperies and curtains
Draperies and curtains keep light out while also adding texture, patterns and colors to your room. Drapery and curtains can be a light or even contain sheer material. Light can enter the room with a minimal amount of sun blockage. Some options can include a blackout liner, adding to the overall light blockage without taking away from their aesthetic appeal. Use them in a master or guest bedroom when you want to achieve a luxurious look, but still want to minimize the amount of sun allowed into the room.
Another option is to use two separate curtains: one sheer and one blackout. They allow flexibility to adjust light and privacy depending on the time of day.
4. Blinds and shutters
Blinds and shutters effectively reduce light and create privacy, but not all blinds are the same.
Thin, vinyl blinds may allow substantial light transmission. If you’re most concerned with blocking light and sleep, vinyl blinds aren’t your best option. Custom-cut blinds will more effectively block out light than thinner ones loosely fit to a window opening. Thicker dark vinyl or metal materials are the most effective, but neither will equal Mylar cellar shades because small amounts of light will seep between the slats even when you close the blinds.
Plantation blinds are among the most expensive options, but they have a particular aesthetic that may be desired. They’re very effective at blocking the light.
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