Window Coverings vs Window Treatments: What's the Difference?
Are you confused about the difference between window coverings and window treatments? Then this post is for you.
When it comes to dressing up your windows, you've probably heard the terms “window coverings” and “window treatments” thrown around. They might seem interchangeable, but they actually mean different things. If you're shopping for your home and are confused about what you are looking for to dress up your windows, you're not alone.
In this post, we discuss the differences between window coverings and window treatments. We’ll explain what each term means, give examples, and help you decide which option, or combination, is best for your space.
What are window coverings?
Window coverings are any material used to cover a window for privacy, light control or insulation. Think of them as the practical solution to keeping your home comfortable and protected, be that from the elements or nosy neighbors.
Window coverings work best in bedrooms (privacy), home offices (glare control), and areas needing insulation (living rooms with large windows). Examples of window coverings include blinds, shades, and shutters. Their primary purpose is a function, for example, blocking light, ensuring privacy, and regulating temperature.
While some coverings can look stylish, they’re usually not the focal point of a room. The most common window coverings include blinds, shades and shutters.
Blinds
Blinds are made of horizontal or vertical slats that can be adjusted to let in light or block it out. They come in various materials like wood, faux wood, aluminum, or vinyl. Popular types of blinds include Venetian blinds and vertical blinds.
Venitian blinds have horizontal slats that tilt and lift. Vertical blinds, on the other hand, have long vertical slats. They are often used for sliding doors or large windows.
Shades
Shades are made from a single piece of material that rolls or folds up and down. They provide a softer, sleeker look compared to blinds. Common examples of shades include roller, Roman and cellular shade.
Roller shades are made of a simple fabric panel that rolls into a tube at the top. Roman shades are made of fabric that fold neatly into horizontal pleats. Cellular shades, also called honeycomb shades, have pockets that trap air for insulation.
Shutters
Shutters are solid panels, usually made of wood or faux wood, that are hinged to the window frame. They are durable and offer excellent privacy and insulation. Plantation shutters, with their wide louvres, are a popular choice for a traditional or upscale look.
What are window treatments?
Window treatments, on the other hand, are about style. They add the finishing touches to a room, bringing in color, texture, and elegance. Window treatments can also be layered over window coverings for added function and flair.
The purpose of window treatments is aesthetic as they enhance the look and feel of your space. They are highly customizable and come in various colors, patterns and materials.
Window treatments work well in living rooms, dining rooms, and spaces where you want to make a design statement. You can often layer them with window coverings for added style and functionality.
Drapes and curtains
These are fabric panels that hang from rods and come in many styles. Drapes are often lined or made of heavier fabric, making them the perfect addition for formal rooms or blocking out light. Curtains are unlined and lighter and work well in casual spaces or when you want soft, filtered light.
Drapes and curtains can be layered together. You can find them in pleated, grommet and sheer varieties, making them very flexible. They can adapt to any style and decor.
Valances
A valance is a short fabric piece that covers the top of a window. It can add color and hide hardware like curtain rods or blind mounts. Valances can be used alone or in combination with blinds or curtains when you want to conceal the drapery hardware.
Cornices
Cornices are similar to valances but made of hard materials like wood or metal. They can be upholstered or painted for added style. Used in architecture and design, cornices can add visual interest, elegance and style while concealing hardware or wall imperfections.
Tiebacks
Tiebacks are precisely what they sound like. They are decorative pieces that hold curtains or drapes open. They can be fabric, rope, leather or metal. Use them to add a bit of sophistication to your room and remove them whem you want to close the drapes.
Differences between window coverings and window treatments
The key distinction between window coverings and window treatments lies in their purpose. Window coverings are a more practical solution that provides essential benefits such as privacy, light control and energy efficiency. Window treatments are all about enhancing the style of a room by creating a polished and elegant look.
Another difference is the level of customization. Window treatments typically offer more design flexibility, allowing you to choose from various fabrics, patterns, and textures. Window coverings, on the other hand, tend to be simpler in design, with fewer personalization options.
Lastly, layering is an important concept that highlights how these two elements often work together. For instance, pairing blackout shades with elegant curtains in a bedroom combines the functionality of effective light control with the aesthetic appeal of a sophisticated window treatment. This layered approach allows you to enjoy the benefits of both styles and practicality.
Which one do you need?
The decision between window coverings and window treatments will be influenced by your priorities. If functionality is your main concern, start with window coverings. Options like blinds, shades, or shutters offer essential benefits such as privacy, light control, and insulation.
On the other hand, if you want to elevate your home's style and add visual interest, invest in window treatments. Use drapes, valances, or tiebacks to add sophistication and create a more custom-looking finish.
Tips for combining both
Combining window coverings and window treatments can be an excellent solution if you want the best of both worlds. Pairing cellular shades with sheer curtains increases energy efficiency while creating a soft, diffused light effect.
Use plantation shutters with a valance for a polished yet practical look in your living rooms. In bedrooms, use blackout roller shades behind drapes for luxury and functionality. This combination offers complete darkness when needed while adding style and coziness.
Conclusion
As you can see, window coverings and treatments serve different purposes yet can work together. The option you go with will largely depend on your home's decor style, as some coverings and treatments work better in different designs. Don’t be afraid to layer coverings and treatments, as that combination might offer the best solution for you.
When deciding which option will work best for your home, try the look you want virtually before you commit. Software like Planner 5D offers different window treatments and coverings you can play with to find the style you like best.
For expert advice, consult a design professional or store specializing in window decor solutions. The right combination can transform your windows and your entire room.
FAQs
Can window treatments and window coverings be used together?
Yes, both window treatments and window coverings complement each other and can be used together. Window coverings control light and privacy, while treatments add style.
What’s the best choice for a modern home?
Clean, minimalistic window coverings (e.g., roller shades or shutters) with modern treatments like simple drapes or valances work best in modern homes.
How do I choose between blinds and shades?
Blinds are ideal for adjustable light control and privacy, while shades are better for a soft, seamless look and insulation. Choose which one works best with your interior design style for the best result.
What are the benefits of layering window treatments?
Layering offers enhanced privacy, better light control, and a more polished look while allowing you to mix textures and colors.
