Faux Wood Shutters

Most amateur interior designers are familiar with faux wood as a replacement for wood blinds. What many people don't know is that you can also save money on faux wood exterior window coverings. Faux wood plantation shutters are now a common weatherproof design that you can use to invest in your home on a limited budget. Real wood shutters are pricey, especially if your house has several different window sizes that need custom window coverings. The blinds factory will have to custom mill your shutters out of hardwood. While wood can be undoubtedly beautiful, faux wood is a better option in some situations. Economical options like fake wood allow you to design your house to your own specifications, and still have a little wiggle-room in the wallet for any modifications.

One especially good aspect of fake wood is that it does not warp or crack in moisture like wood. This means you can have old school exterior shutters that will maintain their bright look in the sun and weather. Faux plantation shutters are made in a factory-engineered process that attempts to replicate the weight and style of real wood window coverings. The material may be particle board, milled plastic, or a plastic-wood pulp composite. The material is then sealed and finished in a wood-grain replica. A quality plantation shutter manufacturer should be able to make the slats appear to be real wood except upon close inspection. If you work it out well with the factory, you will end up with quality shutters for half the price. There are cheap imitation wood blinds that are obvious, but as long as you check them yourself they are easily avoided.

Luckily. with faux wood designs, everything can be custom made. The first step for a custom window coverings is to measure your window frame. You will want to contact the manufacturer on their measuring guidelines, as they can be different. Then follow their instructions to measure the length and width of your window frames. Unconventional window openings may require custom cutting or multiple rows of louvers.

There are other wood alternatives for shutters. Vinyl shutters are also inexpensive and do a good job at insulating your home. Vinyl comes in many colors and resists weathering better than wood. To find your wood-alternative blinds, the best bet is usually a custom blind manufacturer. However, it is a good idea to check out department stores like Sears for some cheaper ready-made shutters. This will give you an idea of what is available in what price range. You can also visit some online manufacturers that may be a little cheaper because they have just one centralized factory and warehouse that will ship your blinds to you.

For more information on window coverings check out my blinds information blog: Custom Blinds, where I try and give you all the tips you need in integrating your blinds into the decor of your home.

Composite Wood Shutters

Composite Wood Shutters combine great style with the strength, stability and straightness of advanced modern day materials. More economical than Hardwood Shutters, they will work well with your family's active lifestyle as they are scratch resistant, humidity resistant and washable making them less prone to environmental effects.

Composite Wood Shutters bring warmth, enduring beauty and richness to any room and can be defined as furniture for your windows. Composite Wood Plantation Shutters also look as great from the outside as they do inside your home. There are many benefits of adding shutters to your home.

There is no other treatment for your windows that equals their elegance. Their aesthetic appeal is undeniably tasteful and timeless.

Composite Wood Plantation shutters should be handcrafted with an attention to detail that's second-to-none. These shutters should be custom made to your specifications with louver sizes 1 7/8- 4 ½". There are lots of frames to choose from to match any situation.

The disadvantage of Composite Shutters is that they are not stable at wider widths. Usually 30" is the widest for a single panel as opposed to 36"-50" for real wood. They mostly come in shades of white, but a few manufactures offer a few wood tone colors. Composite Wood Shutters offer excellent energy efficiency through their high insulation values. Not only do shutters insulate from temperature extremes, but they also are outstanding for sound insulation. Shutters are an investment that will be appraised into the value of your home. Like a fine piece of furniture, these shutters offer well crafted, elegant and durable window treatments. They are truly a lifetime product.

Ray Bork is the owner of New View Blinds and Shutters, located in Colorado. Visit our website, http://WWW.NVBAS.COM. We have information including pictures and videos on most types of window coverings to help you in your buying decision.

How Aluminum Window Replacement Contributes Towards Home Improvement?

Talking any action towards home improvement should make a home a better living place. At the same time, it must prove to be a cost-effective step that would in turn add to the property's value. While thinking about window replacement, you can think of aluminum window options to achieve these benefits.

As their name suggests, aluminum windows have casings or frames made up of aluminum. Most of the homeowners don't know the fact that aluminum has been used for window casing for many decades. Despite the presence of many other materials, aluminum has managed to maintain its popularity. Here are the top ways in which windows made in aluminum contribute significantly towards home improvement.

Light Weight and Easy to Install

Aluminum is one of the lightest materials known to the mankind. As a result, aluminum window casings are light in weight and can be easily installed. It is not a big job to find experts who can efficiently handle the task of installing these windows.

Variety of Designs

When it comes to aluminum window designs, there is no dearth of variety in which can be found. Casement style of these windows is a good option for proper ventilation. Slider windows made of aluminum are also popular if you want gliding windows. Double-hung tilt style is another popular variety that makes cleaning easier.

In terms of colors, you can choose from a spectrum of color, apart from the traditional white and cream colors for these windows. Finally, there are different sizes in which these window designs are available to meet individual needs.

Extensive Customization

Another advantage that you can enjoy with aluminum window installation is customization. Apart from choosing from a number of colors, you can specify your own custom color that will match the color of the wells at your home. Sizes of these windows can also be customized as per the customer's specifications. Going further, a number of customized accessories can be added to these windows.

Customized trims can be added to the internal or external surfaces of these windows. Mullions are the interesting accessories that you can add to these windows to make them much more appealing. Customized sills in different shapes are other accessories that homeowners find as interesting additions to aluminum window designs. Consult a dealer in these windows to learn about other customization options.

Can Be Made Energy Efficient

Gone are the days when aluminum windows were criticized for being less energy efficient than the windows made in wood, vinyl and other materials. Today, a number of options have been devised to increase their energy efficiency. Weather-stripping, for example, is one good option to achieve this target.

Other Advantages

Aluminum window designs can add worth to your property with their sophisticated appeal. In fact, they can contribute towards price appreciation of your house in case you wish to sell it in the future. These windows are also good at resisting moisture, sound and harsh weather conditions.

Most importantly, windows made in aluminum are economical options. Not only are they inexpensive, they also have low maintenance costs. With such a big array of advantages, considering aluminum window options for home improvement can't be overlooked.

Anamika Swami has wide knowledge of B2B Marketplace and Business industries. Get latest updates on Aluminum Window which are of great demand in B2B space.You can find more free information about Business Directory at Dir.indiaMART.com

Emergency Glazing

If you have a broken window what do you do? First thing is not to panic, call a reliable emergency glazing company who can make your property secure and restore it back to how it should be.

An emergency glazier could be needed for any number of reasons. Your property may have been broken into, children playing with a football too close to a window, losing your keys and having to smash a window to gain access, high winds and vandalism there are many reasons why you may need to make that call.

An experienced emergency glazier should be available day or night to be on call when you need them the most. Emergency glazing companies should be available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year and offer a 1 hour response where possible.

When you call out an emergency glazier they will secure your property by boarding up any broken windows that are a security risk and then advise, supply and fit the correct glass needed in replacement.

There are many different types of glass available that an emergency glazier can fit such as float glass, toughened glass, laminated glass and fire resistant glass.

Float glass is perfectly flat clear glass (basic product) used in most modern windows.
Toughened glass is a type of safety glass designed for use in critical areas.
Laminated glass is a type of safety glass that holds together when it is shattered.
Fire Resistant Glass offers increased levels of protection against fire.

An emergency glazier with experience will be able to recommend to you what type of glass is needed where and other options available to you.

Emergency glazing companies can usually offer other services such as double glazing repairs, sash window restoration, made to measure table tops, shelves and mirrors, upvc maintenance, misted unit replacement and much more.

Many glazing companies also offer the supply and fitting of cat flaps. With many homes now being fitted with double glazing and conservatories it can be very difficult for pet owners to give pets the freedom to access the outside world. Many people are unaware that cat flaps can be fitted into glass, double glazed sealed units and double glazed doors.

The best thing to do if you have any window repairs, glass, glazing or boarding up needs is to contact a local glazing company. No job is too small or too big for an experienced emergency glazing company.

If you need an emergency glazier in Monmouthshire Glaze & Restore will be able to help as your safety and security is their top priority. They have glazing vehicles that are always fully stocked and have glass cutting facilities so that the majority of jobs can be carried out on the first visit.

Broken windows, cracked windows, misted sealed units whatever your window repairs and glazing needs they will be able to help.

Contact Glaze & Restore for a professional, friendly service you can trust in Monmouthshire. http://glazeandrestore.co.uk/

Reasons for Choosing Apex Replacement Windows

When windows look dilapidated, the best action to take is to replace them. There are many brands that you can choose from when it comes to replacing windows. One of the best companies that can offer you the best replacement windows is Apex Energy Solutions. There are many reasons why you should choose Apex replacement windows.

One of these reasons is that the windows are scientifically advanced, they are designed in a manner that makes them strong and resilient and they are therefore able to withstand many weather conditions. These replacement windows are typically double or triple paned. They usually are filled with a gas like krypton or argon between the panes. This minimizes the loss of heat through the windows.

The other reason for choosing Apex replacement windows is that they are friendly to the environment. This is due to the features that they contain such as stainless steel spacers. Many of these windows feature a reflective film or coating that is applied to them. It is a low emittance coating that works to regulate internal temperatures. Since these windows minimize the loss of heat, you will not need to heat your home as much if you have installed them. You can therefore reduce the amount of energy that you consume and this benefits the environment. These windows are also beneficial in that you can be able to wash them from the inside of your home. They are also designed in a way that makes it possible for you to flip the bottoms and tops up so that you can wash them thoroughly. In addition to this, many windows come in thoroughly treated wood or vinyl and you therefore do not need additional staining or painting. This makes it easy for you to maintain them since you do not need to keep repainting them regularly.

Apex replacement windows are also a good choice because they enable you to save money. They will prevent hot air from leaving your house during the cold months and cool air from leaving the house during the summer. This will help you save money on energy bills. These windows are also attractive since they come in various stylish designs. They also come in a wide variety of colors and they have strong uPVC frames that do not crack or chip over time. The windows are constructed by using pinch-point fusion welding and they will therefore never warp like other windows. For this reason, you can consider them to be a long term investment.

The other reason for choosing Apex replacement windows is curb appeal. They make your house appear more attractive and even prospective buyers will be interested in your home since it looks well maintained. You can consider installing them if you want to increase the value of your home. By purchasing them, you can receive a tax credit on your purchase, which can total up to thirty percent of your investment. This tax credit is offered when you purchase products that are friendly to the environment. When buying Apex replacement windows, you should ensure that you get them from the best window suppliers. In order to get the best energy efficiency on these windows, look for those having a U-factor and SHGC of 0.30 or less than that.

Curtain Ideas For Bay Windows

One way you can still see the dramatic view, allow the sun to lighten up the room, but also ensure that others cannot see in is by using a double curtain effect. You can easily use solid curtains with a sheer behind. This way you can use the solid curtains to open and close as you desire, but always have the sheer in place to ensure your privacy.

Some individuals use café curtains, which offer a fixed curtain panel over the window or ones that can be moved out of the way when you want the sun to brighten up your home. Other ideas include shades, blinds, and shutters. Of course, the main idea with bay windows is to ensure you can enjoy the view, so choosing the proper window treatment is essential.

No matter what style of window treatment you choose, the answer for bay windows is remote control devices that will open and close the windows, open the shutters or blinds, or even pull the blinds up so you can let the sun in or watch the squirrels play. By using remote control curtains even with a sheer curtain behind, you can easily open the curtains and stay far enough way that you do not scare away the animals that have come to play in your yard. Now, you can easily creep up and take their photo before they realize they are being watched.

This is the best type of curtain for any bay window as it automates your home and gives you the chance to open or close the curtains with little effort, just pushing a button.

Anita Payton is a professional writer who enjoys new technologies for the home including home automation. Her current interest deals with curtain and window automation and remote control curtains automation for convenient, cost-effective window solutions.

Interior Design Ideas: Windows With Style

When it comes to interior design ideas, windows are one of the favourite pieces that many people love to concentrate on for home décor. To learn about the modern and popular choices for stylish windows, consider some of the following common points that all top decorators include in their décor:

Fabrics

With the number of different fabric blends available today, there are endless possibilities for beautiful and unique windows to add style to a room. Choose from a wide array of natural fabrics like cotton, silk, linen and even wool or from any number of the synthetic blends that are popular today.

Heavy Opaque

In some interior design ideas, windows play a big role in a room. Sometimes the windows can be the focal point or simply work to create an ideal environment for the person living or working in it. By using heavy opaque window treatments, it's possible to block out unwanted light, dull noise from outside and even create a bold yet calm atmosphere.

Light Sheer

Most of the interior design ideas for windows, especially whimsical and modern styles will include light sheer treatments. Sheer curtains, blinds and shades offer a beautiful filtered light that softens the room, giving it a warm serene feel to it. Combine several layers of sheers in different colours for a fun subdued addition of colour.

Natural Materials

When considering modern interior design ideas, windows are the pieces that bring nature into the home from sunlight and views from the outdoors. This is one of the main reasons many people love to use natural materials for their window treatments and also as a way to tie in a natural feel indoors.

Wood

Wood is one of the top choices for blinds since they offer a strong look with a warm natural charm. Wood can be included as the main window treatment or even as accessories for other window styles. There is much flexibility to match wood into décor since there are endless shades and colours available.

Bamboo

When it comes to ethnic and modern interior design ideas, windows with bamboo coverings are usually at the top of the list. Bamboo is a beautiful versatile material that suits many different home décor styles, especially those with an Asian feel to them.

Colours and Patterns

Using colours and patterns for windows is a great way to make a plain room vibrant. Change the look and feel of any space by adding shades, curtains or accessories in a bold colour or design.

Contrasting Colours

Some of the top interior design ideas for windows will have a beautiful mix of contrasting colours. Whether it's in a pattern or from window treatment combination's, contrasting colours offer a bold statement in any room.

Bold Patterns

Along with contrasting colours, bold patterns are another way to make a big statement in a home. This is especially striking when decorating large windows in a room. Though it will certainly have a bright fun look to it, it's also important not to make it overpowering or else the rest of the room may seem lost.

Bold patterns are also a wonderful way to bring attention to smaller windows in a room, especially when curtains are drawn back to form a lovely frame, showing the views from outside.

Tone on Tone

Many classic and sophisticated interior design ideas for windows will include subdued class and style, especially with the addition of tone on tone styles. Choose fun patterns without showing them in a bold manner. This style works beautifully with paisley prints, polka dots, floral patterns and more.

Learn more about Calgary Tile Installation: Calgary Tile

Vertical Window Blinds Ideas

Replacement vertical window blinds as well as custom vertical window blinds can make or break a room's decor. The main reason to use vertical window blinds is to filter out the light in a room, but contemporary professional standards suggest that modern interior decorators use them as a way of tying a room's appearance together. From fabric to bamboo, faux wood and levolor, sheers to aluminum there are many to choose from. Vinyl window blinds are still the most commonly bought and sold blinds, even though cellular and other options exist. It seems that the old standby is still among the favorites of the general public. However, one star had a set of vertical window blinds made of smoked glass for a picture window. It took over 200 man hours to complete the blinds, and they had bamboo accents on the ends and sides to keep the glass from shattering if touched. No way was this on discount at the local home improvement store, but there are many deals to be found.

Patio door blinds, sheer curtains, ideas for your replacement blinds can come from any room. If your room has no décor and is a fresh room you can choose your color scheme now. If the walls are painted white, you can make the color scheme anything you wish. You can have fabrics of any kind to complete the room, or match to furniture you are going to place in the room. The options are endless for contemporary and modern replacement vertical window blinds.

Although many people already have these blinds in their homes, if there are none present you could add value to the home through equity. The average amount of equity placed into a home is based on the type of window blinds used. For the regular horizontal window blinds there is an average of $150 overall added to the value. For just 3 sets of aluminum vertical window blinds there is the opportunity to add an additional $400 to your home's value. For the entire home being completed in these blinds you can have up to $1,000 in equity added in. However, if they are damaged or sized improperly there is no value whatsoever added to the home and instead the equity is taken away due to the fact that repairs are needed.

If you are using sheers over the top of your blinds, the sheers should be a lighter or darker value than the room based on color. For darker colored rooms you should use a dark colored sheer with a light colored blind behind it. For lighter colored rooms you should use a light colored sheer with a dark colored blind behind it. If there are no sheers to be used, match the blind color with the juxtaposing color for the room. Therefore if the room is yellow, go with a hue of purple in order to make the room pop. For those who want a more uniform and eased appearance, simply match the paint color with the blind color.

For more information about Vertical Window Blinds and other window treatment ideas, visit http://www.thewindowtreatmentideas.com.

Skylight Roof Windows Can Brighten Up Any Room

Installing a skylight roof has become a popular option among homeowners who want to save on their power costs and at the same time enhance the aesthetics of their homes. With new technology, there are now several design options and features that are being offered by companies who manufacture these skylight roof windows. They can easily enhance the brightness inside any room, making it more homey and comfortable.

These roof lights are just one of several home design options that you can incorporate in order to save on energy consumption. This falls under what is now called "eco-friendly" design which is becoming more popular due to the high cost of power. A skylight roof allows natural light to enter a room, making it unnecessary to use artificial lighting. Some innovative companies can provide built-in blinds, with remote control opening and closing.

However, not all homeowners are that excited about installing skylight windows inside their homes. This is mainly because some brands earned a bad reputation because of improper installation that led to leaking. When the rain comes and leaking occurs around a skylight window, this can lead to other disasters such as mildew, rotting of wood panels and even growth of mold on the roof and the walls.

Some homeowners would prefer to install roof light windows by themselves. This is not really impossible, but you may end up with a faulty installation that will cost you more in the long run. It is best to hire professional experts who can guarantee the quality of workmanship. This is really a good investment that will pay off in terms of electricity savings and the aesthetic element added to your home.

Therefore, if a skylight roof window is in your list of home improvements, hire a contractor that is licensed to do this in your state and one that has earned a good reputation. Make sure that the company can guarantee the work so that you will get quality service in case there are future problems like leaking. You would want to work with a company that has been in the business for years and one that has many satisfied customers.

Try to do an Internet search for window installer companies in your area. Ask around for references and check if these companies give free quotations. You can then compare prices and designs before you make your choice. Of course, the total project cost will depend on the material you choose and the number of man hours it will take to complete the job. The contractor you hire should also be aware of the rules in your state that apply to installing skylight roof windows.

If you are considering putting skylight roof windows, work with a company that does not only offer this product, but also does installation to avoid leaks in the future.

In Chicago, one company comes to mind, which is well-known for the service they provide for installing skylight windows, vinyl windows, patio and entrance doors. Innovative Home Concepts is just one of several home improvement companies that provide high quality door and window installations.

Megan writes on home renovation tips and loves to share great finds to others. For the best skylight roof windows in the Chicago area, she prefers to work only with Innovation Concepts, Inc., a professional door and window installer.

Woodbury Shutters for Your Home

From desert-dry to moist and humid, Woodbury Window shutters keep looking their best in any climate condition. They feature UV-inhibiting finishes to prolong their brilliance and are tested for extreme heat deflection temperature to assure that your investment is protected from the sun. They offer a limited lifetime warranty in opposition to warping, chipping and cracking, even in the most extreme environment. In addition to providing an outstanding insulation value against the heat and cold, they are easy to clean and maintain. These Poly window shutters have the graceful appearance of wooden interior shutters, as well as the tenacity and durability of a synthetic. You can have the best of both worlds! They are a handsome, stately shutter with a modern flair. With a stylish elliptical louver profile, these window shutters are a terrific selection for the buyer who wants it all.

The remarkable soundness of Woodbury shutters comes from incorporating the same leading-edge ABS co-polymer substance used in automobile parts, football helmets and more applications requiring tough, resilient materials. Formulated uniquely for strength, These Poly shutters remain amazingly lightweight and lovely. They are solid - unlike hollow vinyl shutters - along with substantial louvers that won't rattle. Heavy-duty structural joints form an enduring frame assembled including the same attention and craftsmanship found in discriminating furniture.

Among the many advantages of Woodbury window shutters are:

Superior Appearance

. Appeal of wood without the expense

. Specially made specialty plantation shutters in any shape and size, such as arches, octagons and sunbursts

. Paintable finish allows for future color changes

Durability

. UV-inhibiting finishes endure staining, fading and yellowing

. ABS co-polymer coating resists denting

Dimensional Stability

. Stable to temperatures up to 140 F compared to 120 F for many other synthetic home window shutters

. Resistance to sagging, shrinking and swelling to ensure tight shutter closure

Innovative Construction

. Authentic custom handcrafting without pre-fabrication and short-cuts

. Hidden recessed magnets for a streamlined look

. Solid core containing furniture-quality handcrafting

. Structurally superior mortise and tenon joints

Why Woodbury is more desirable than Poly Wood?

. Stable to temperatures up to 140 F compared to 120 F for Poly Wood. It won't sag in hot sun like Poly Wood plantation shutters may.

. Woodbury's ABS construction makes higher louver lengths possible, creating the choice of greater panels possible for a cleaner and less obscured view out of the window. Many Poly Wood plantation shutters are limited to just about 28 inches wide. However, Woodbury shutters can have panel widths up to 36 inches wide!

. Woodburyr has a much harder material surface, reducing the likelihood of dings and dents.

. Colors have been selected to match customers' interior design and are extremely versatile.

. Poly Wood shutters have a rubber flap between the stiles that require closing the shutter panels at the same time. This rubber flap may become fixed together over time due to heat. Woodbury's stile has a precise bevel that allows each panel to be opened and closed independently, yet further offering light control.

Like any home investment, only shutters of exceptional value can have long-term value and help add to your home's appreciation. This requires the most desirable materials, handcrafting processes, advanced technology and quality control systems used to make Woodbury shutters. Although made specifically for strength, they remain amazingly lightweight-perfect for everyday living!

Ray Bork is the owner of New View Blinds and Shutters, located in Colorado. Visit our website, http://WWW.NVBAS.COM. We have information including pictures and videos on most types of window coverings to help you in your buying decision.

New View Blinds & Shutters mobile shopping experience brings the showroom directly to your living room. Where would you rather see your window coverings - in a home improvement center or in the very same room they will be installed? See the colors and textures the way they should be seen, in the natural lighting of your home and next to your own furniture.

Making DIY Roman Blinds

Roman blinds are wonderfully versatile window coverings that adapt well to a number of settings. They are totally at home in any contemporary room, but they also can be used under more traditional top dressings while yet providing crisp and neat dressing along with absolute privacy. They can appear to be difficult to make, but they are not. Making Roman blinds is a satisfying, creative and relatively quick home sewing project.

The first step is to determine the length that a functional Roman blind needs to be. Measure the length of the window. Divide this length by 5, add that number to the length of the window, then add another inch for seam allowances. Thus for a 40" window, cut blind fabric and lining fabric beginning with: 40" ÷ 5 = 8. Fabric panels should be 40" + 8" + 1" seam allowance = 49" total length.

With right sides together, sew the blind fabric to the lining fabric, leaving an opening on the top edge of about six inches for turning. Turn the piece right side out and iron the seams. An optional step is to place a small wooden dowel inside the piece, cut to slightly less than the width of the Roman blind. This will help to keep the bottom stable and crisp, but is not necessary. Sew the opening shut and then iron that as well.

Sew hook-and-loop tape along the top edge on the lining side of the Roman blind. Measure five inches from the top edge, and then measure and mark a one inch distance. Measure another five inches from the bottom of that one inch section, and mark another one-inch section. Continue this process to the bottom of the Roman blind. Make ½" flaps of each one-inch section and stitch them down to the lining side.

After all flaps have been sewn in, mark six to eight evenly-spaced sections at the top on the lining side across the width of the Roman blind. Duplicate the marks on each flap that already has been stitched in along the length of the blind. Cut several lengths of small, lightweight cording. Each cord length will be twice the length of the window, plus the width of the window. For a window that is 40" long and 36" wide, each cord will be 40" + 40" + 36" = 116" = 9.67 feet. Hand sew one end of each cord to the lining side of the blind. Begin at the bottom edge, sewing only through the lining fabric and being careful not to pick up any blind fabric so that no hand stitching shows on the right side of the blind. Keeping the cord flat, hand sew the cord to each ½" flap, continuing to the top edge. Repeat this process with all other cords on marked lines, leaving the remaining cord length free.

Cut a mounting board the width of the window and Roman blind. Transfer cord markings to the mounting board. Staple the other side of the hook and loop tape to the mounting board. Install small screw eyes on the bottom edge of the mounting board, and then thread all loose cord ends through the screw eyes, gathering all at one side of the blind and tying them together. Attach a cord cleat to the wall or window frame.

Install the mounting board in the window that the blind will cover. Attach the Roman blind by matching up the hook and loop tape pieces. Raise and lower the blind by using the cords, winding the cord bundle around the cord cleat to keep the blind in the raised position.

Pleae visit Roman Blinds Direct for more information on Roman Blinds

Kitchen Window Treatment Ideas to Enliven Your Kitchen

The kitchen is that room in the house where everybody feels the most comfortable. It is also the place where everybody spends most of their time at home. People prepare the food there, eat there and also gather there to discuss various issues and simply to hang around.

This is why it is important that the room is looking and feeling warm and cozy at all times and having the right type of kitchen window treatment is an important part of achieving it. You need window covering that keeps the sun away when the sun glare is too strong but also lets it in when the kitchen needs to have adequate lighting and sun.

One way to achieve this is by having curtains made of light fabric which allows light to filter through but not completely. At the same time it should keep your privacy by not allowing outside views to your kitchen. Also due to the nature of the kitchen, where heavy cooking takes place, the curtains need frequent washing. This is an additional reason for having light fabric curtains at the windows. This is where using heavy drapes should be avoided.

For modern spaces that have metal and reflective surfaces, marble, glass and granite, you can use Venetian blinds, faux wood or hardwood blinds and Roman shades. Having these types of blinds will ensure safety in case of any fire that might destroy the curtains easily.

Some people prefer minimalist treatments with simple Roman shades that can be very easily pulled up to allow sunlight in, or simple swags to give their plain windows some extra color. Other people want more functional types of window covers at the expense of style. Using regular shades and vertical blinds achieves this by giving them control over how much light the kitchen should get at any time. These window blinds are definitely not as fancy as curtains would be, however they do serve the purpose for which they have been bought.

Getting the right type of kitchen window treatment is a personal matter for everyone. We are all different and our tastes differ from each other as well. What works for one won't work for the other, and what pleases one set of eyes might leave the other unimpressed.

To learn more about the different types of shutters for windows for your kitchen, visit my website at arch window treatments

Should I Invest in Kitchen Window Treatments

If you are considering selling your home or just trying to spruce it up a bit then you may want to consider investing in some kitchen window treatments that can easily bring life to your home. Many people neglect to realize that the kitchen is one of the most important rooms in the home.

In fact research shows that people who are buying a home tend to focus on the kitchen first. If your kitchen is uninviting then chances are you are going to have a difficult time selling your home.

People who take the time to add kitchen window treatments to their home to make it livelier will have an easier time selling their homes. This is a great way to bring life back into your home as well. We all know that we can easily become bored by looking at the same blinds, curtains, wall paper or anything else that we have on our walls.

In fact some times it can be fun and exciting to add new kitchen window treatments to our home. The best part is that if you take the time and do your research then you should be able to find some great discount window treatments both online and offline that will help you get your home back into a great living area without overspending.

However before you begin spending your money you first have to decide what type of atmosphere you are trying to achieve in your home. This can take some creativity; however there are several places or people that you can ask for advice on how to begin redecorating your home.

For great tips and advice about curtains and window treatments then you should definitely be aware of this. There is no reason to overspend on kitchen window treatments if you know what you are looking for and where to look first.

Bay Window Curtain Pole

If any window presents a challenge then it is the bay window curtain pole selection and proper treatment or dressing for the bay window. Bay windows tend to have many sides while some are angled, some are curved others project and jut out more while others project out only a little. Every home has its own unique needs and these openings to the outside world reflect the home of which it forms a big part.

These curved or angled openings provide a much-needed lung space for many homes. They are able to bring a little bit of the outdoors into the home. The window is designed to slightly jut out with angles or is curved. When you look through these you can see more of the outside and you get a wider view of the garden or the outdoor lawns. It give a much uninterrupted view which is not possible for ordinary windows that are flush with the walls. These windows are special as they are large and usually start from the floor. Some can be designed even at the usual level a few feet above the floor.

With arched windows some people would like to create a secluded private space for themselves or their children inside the living room. Still others would like to take advantage of the extra space created by the curved space to make the living room larger or more spacious. Depending of these needs the curtains and bay window curtain pole needs to be chosen.

While creating a private space, the curtain pole needs to just follow the lines of the room and will mostly straight as if the extra space did not exist. But, if the window is an attempt to create more living space then the curtain pole needs to follow the curvature and angles of the bay window. Once the purpose of bay window is decided it is easier to select appropriate window treatment and select the right curtain rods for it.

Till recently bay window curtain poles were not designed to be customized. So, people had to buy flexible poles and bend it to their requirement. Recently, there are more options for them in terms of curtain poles. You can choose from many ready to use models that are easily customizable to your window design.

Bay windows curtain pole is available in a variety of materials like aluminum, stainless steel, flexible plastics and chrome finished brass rods. When buying the poles for your curtains make sure you have the right measurements and dimensions ready. It is easy to place an order online or buy it from an offline store. Depending on your comfort level choose from either option.

Jane Sawyer is a interiors expert. She has written about Bay Window Curtain Pole on her website at http://www.baywindowcurtainpole.com

How To Hang Roman Blinds

Roman blinds are shades that add a decorative touch to any window or door while also blocking out the mid day super bright sunlight. They can be made of a variety of materials, from cotton or suede, to a variety of metals even. To complete this project, you will need: a tape measure, a drill, screws (2 inch screws, which usually will come with the roman blinds that you purchase), a pencil, and a small step ladder.

The first thing one must determine before beginning to hang their Roman blinds is whether they want to mount them on the inside of the window (jamb to jamb), or on the outside (bracket to bracket). Once you have made your decision, you must then measure your window to determine what length, width, and size roman blinds you should purchase. You need to measure the width of your window at the top, middle, and bottom. This seems redundant, but there is always going to be a slight difference, so you should measure all three places and pick the smallest measurement. (This is so that the blinds can easily go up and down).

Once you have purchased the correct size roman blinds, you are ready to begin mounting them. Most blinds come with brackets so that you do not have to buy them separately. If you chose to mount the blinds from the inside, the blind, should not make contact with the top of the window frame when it is raised and lowered. Test this before installing the brackets. Then position the brackets inside the window frame. Make sure the brackets are mounted perfectly evenly! Once your roman blinds are installed, they should move freely between each of the the brackets. For those of you who chose to mount to the outside, you begin the same way, meaning the blind should still not make any contact with the top of the window frame, when it is raised and lowered. Before installing the brackets, make sure you they are going to be placed completely level with one another. When the blind is installed it should move freely between the brackets, as with the inside-mounted blinds. You need to leave a small amount of room between the brackets so the blinds will move correctly.

After the roman blind is installed, you need to test the blinds and make sure they are properly aligned and are functioning properly. They should be able to go up and down with no friction. Now is also the time to install the child safety latches, (these usually come with the blinds) if there are children in the home, or kids who will be visiting frequently.

Hanging Roman blinds is not a very difficult task, but one that must be done with precision. Measuring is the most important part of the whole process. If you do not measure accurately, then the whole project will be thrown off. So precision is key! Once your measurements are correct, the rest is cake! Good luck!

Please visit Roman Blinds Direct for more information on Roman Blinds

Benefits of Duo Blinds

Have you ever purchased a set of blinds and wished that you could vary the amount of light that comes in as opposed to just blocking out the light completely? Well with duo blinds you can do this. Duo blinds are a system with two sheets. The first sheet is a thin translucent layer of fabric. It is thin enough to let a very small amount of light to get in but not too thick as to block out the suns rays. The second sheet is a thicker more opaque layer which often is used to fully block out light or even give full privacy to the room. Having a duo blind means that one does not have to totally sacrifice light or fully block visibility of a room.

Duo blinds have increased in popularity lately because they provide a great alternative to the normal shades or blinds which totally block out light. The main idea of blinds is to either block out the light or regulate how much comes in. But the only downside is you get patterns of light and dark as well as less natural light coming in. The benefit of using duo blinds is that there is a comfortable amount of natural light that seeps through but not enough to be blinding or to cast too much glare into the room. This gives rooms more lighting and can save on the power bill.

In the evening, it is often hard to see the edges of the house unless you own a set of floodlights, which are quite expensive. Having duo blinds means that you can leave the transparent layer up and just leave the lights on. This can give the illusion of people being home and also illuminates the outer parts of the house. This is most crucial when you have parties or events at home. Some might say, to get a few garden lamps and the like. But in reality not everyone can afford a whole set of garden lamps because they are expensive and consume a whole heap of power. With the light coming from your house, there should be enough ambient lighting to light the garden. This means that you end up spending less money on external lighting fixtures.

Duo blinds are also act as a bit of a screen to prevent insects from entering your house when you leave the window open. Having insects in the house can be annoying as well as dangerous to ones health as mosquitoes carry a variety of illnesses such as malaria, dengue and the like.

At the end of the day the choice is up to you. Having duo blinds is great because of the reasons mentioned above. They are a bit more costly compared to normal shades, but in reality they are more versatile and useful than a normal shade or blinds. The money is yours, but would you rather spend your money on cheap shades or on high quality multi-purpose duo blinds?

If you wish to find out more on Duo Blinds as well as information Bespoke Shades, go to http://www.bespokeshades.co.uk.

Make a Difference With Stained Glass Window Designs

Stained Glass window designs are architectural features that have been around for ages. In the past, they were usually found in churches and monasteries. They usually depicted biblical scenes or resembled flowers or other geometric shapes. Despite being a design from the Gothic times, it seems that the popularity of stained glass window designs have not died down yet.

The difference today however is that the stained glass window designs are brought into homes. For the richer and the financially stronger home owner, installing these at home adds a sense of grandeur to the home and sets it apart from the rest. Rather than being limited to biblical scenes, they nowadays can be customized to cater to the home owners demand.

Installing them at home would be a really worthy one time investment for the interior decoration of the house. Whenever light passes through the window, the home would be immersed in a range of colors that would just add more life to the area.

Naturally, the cost of installing them at your house would depend on various factors. For example, the availability of the stained glass manufacturers, the size of the window and most importantly, and the design. Of course, the more complicate or customized the designs are, the higher the price would be.

There are various methods in producing stained glass window designs. The traditional method is where pieces of colored glass are cut to fit a certain drawing. Any gaps between the pieces produced using this process are then covered by inserting materials such as brass or copper in between them. The traditional method is the more expensive method due to its complexity. However, it lasts for a very long time and looks stunningly beautiful.

Another common method is called the Tiffany method. In this method, stained glass window designs were assembled by joining together colored glass plates using soldering or welding techniques.

Another low cost and more contemporary approach to producing them is the use of transparent colored glass sheets that are stuck on to plain glass. Being an easier process, this approach is much cheaper when it comes to producing them. Hence, this is by far the most common technique used in manufacturing these windows today.

Over the centuries, the techniques of making these Tempered Glass have evolved tremendously and they have changed as well. However, this architectural marvel is far from dying off. Instead with its current popularity in many American and European homes, it is safe to say that Stained Glass window designs are here to stay.

Custom Window Designs Come True

The America Window Co. takes a novel approach in offering its services to prospective homeowners, actual homeowners, do-it-yourself devotees, and builders. The company is based in Covina, California, and covers pretty much the Southern California area.

The company actively seeks out custom installations and invites prospective clients to suggest how they would like their homes to look. They state that if you can imagine it, they can find a way to make it happen. The company's designers will take a look at what you have in mind and come up with an estimate. Of course, if you're imagining something like the Taj Mahal, it might end up beyond your budget, but the challenge is out there.

The "how" of replacement windows extends to American Window personnel visiting your home to look around, measure, and make recommendations. They have in-house contractors ready and willing to bid on the job and if you have a hankering to go the DIY route, they can furnish the materials and expertise to make sure you get it right the first time. If you are a DIY person or living out of the area, you can skip the on-site analysis, just order the materials, and have at it. The idea of ordering goes so far as to offer shipment of whatever materials the company can come up with to anywhere you choose.

Visiting the company website reveals a long list of window and door manufacturers whose products are available through American Window, and based on customer feedback over the years, the company offers its own line of windows.

If you're looking to add value to your home and save a bundle on energy costs, American Window is a great place to start and you just might find a kindred spirit in doing windows the right way.

Ryan Stinson is a freelance writer with general home improvement knowledge, and expertise in american window installation and identifying quality door manufacturers.

Modern Double Hung Sash Window Design With an Eye to Historical Influences

Time has proven double hung sash windows to be an excellent design. In some cases these windows have lasted hundreds of years. The revival in the popularity of sash windows has caused many manufacturers to exploit this highly profitable market.

Many people are spending a lot of money on what they think will last them a lifetime. There is a problem, modern sash windows have a different set of criteria on the design from the traditional designs. Demands on a modern window can have a negative effect on the performance that made the traditional sash windows so successful over hundreds of years.

The new demands of maximising profitability and complying with current regulations are adding complexity to the simplicity of the original design. Adding complexity is a real problem for the maintenance in the years to come. If in twenty to thirty years time, components aren't available the window will have to be ripped out and replaced. A two hundred year old window can still be easily maintained and repaired to this day. The problem is similar to those facing plastic windows installed only twenty years ago.

Influences on a design have to be considered and understood before any re-design can be successful in the long term. Without this comprehension, the designer can't make the right choices so the original successful features can be lost.

The design of Double Hung Sash Windows evolved over time starting in the mid 1600's. Each stage in the Sash Window history has been tried, and proved. Advances in glass and glazing technology have driven many of the variations to the basic design. These changes where incorporated in preceding design. We can't identify any serious failures as these windows will have been scrapped long ago..

Current legislation requires the installation of sealed unit double glazing. This advance in fenestration is the biggest challenge so far to the traditional sash window. Large proportions of modern makers have chosen to ignore or are ignorant of problems that this new glazing can cause. The result will be many disappointed customers a few years down the line. They will have to pay for expensive remedial work or be even more disgruntled when the specialist components used are out of production.

There are some good manufacturers who have done well incorporating double glazing in to sash window designs. The existing solutions from modern timber window design have been applied directly to sash windows. These windows have a good chance of performing well over many years. Unfortunately the technology for glazing these windows is adapted from casement style windows where the frame design is fairly heavy in appearance.

Most sash windows with double glazing being produced today don't have the aesthetic elegance of traditional designs. Also a number of the details highlight the modern construction. Whilst making windows that comply with the modern demands of energy conservation, we have to accept some changes to the aesthetics. The latest double hung window designs should be see in the light of past changes. It's another chapter in long history. History will forget the failures, although many individuals won't. Modern windows don't have to be replicas but they do need to be honest.

When judging a new design, we should ask:

a) Are any of the details detracting from what looks right?

a) Is the design in sympathy with the building style and proportions?

c) Has the design been detailed to maximise longevity?

d) Is maintenance and future repair possible and straight forward?

The answers need assessing in a historical context. With continuity, a successful, evolving design can have the best chance of lasting hundreds of years. Good designs will perform to modern standards and survive the test of time.

A project to design and build high performance double glazed, double hung sliding sash windows should start with a look at the historical background. As I've been working on a design that combines the best of modern technology with traditional craft, reference to the past has been invaluable.

Working this way will give me windows with high performance that will out-last me. The cost per unit will be lower than equivalent PVC alternatives. They will add value to the house whilst the energy bills will be lower. The published plans and information will be invaluable source those with some basic skills and a desire join generations of craftsmen making sustainable architectural joinery.

Andy Bell is a designer exploring the application of modern technological advances to traditional craft based designs. The resulting plans can be built using basic woodworking tools and only require a moderate skill level. The History of Double Hung Sash Windows and project progress are on his iDoStuff website

Window Designs - Modern Or Old Fashioned?

Window designs occupy the minds of many homeowners when building their homes. Do they want to have modern, minimalist windows or go for more elaborate and ornate old fashioned windows that are works of art in themselves. If you have visited old style homes you would have been stuck by the beauty and intricacy that is involved in the creation of those masterpieces. At once they stand out and make a statement of their own.

Not the windows of today which are just plain openings with minimalist frames with glass inserted. Today's window reflect the times where people don't have too much time to maintain and clean intricate designs. They would rather have simple window designs that can be easily cleaned and kept dust free. Also, modern windows are more likely to focus on energy-efficiency and effective insulation. If the windows can perform these functions then the window is considered to have served its purpose.

The windows of the old were designed to be used to frame a view. When you look out of the window you are likely to see a stream flowing by or a calm waters of a lake or rolling hills. For such wondrous sites it would be a disservice to have plain windows. So, beautiful, elaborate windows with carvings and ornate designs were created. The times were leisurely and there were plenty of maids and men available to clean them. Beautiful window treatments enhanced the whole look fo the window.

Today, the movement is towards minimalist and neat look. With clean-cut lines and simplicity ingrained in their design the modern windows try to blend in with the walls and not detract from the interiors of the home which are the main focus of attention. There aren't many views to be had inside a thickly populated cities and towns where the window will likely frame the neighbor's house or the road with traffic rushing by. Only few home can afford beautiful gardens, lawns or artificial lakes. Also, old style homes consume a lot of energy to keep them heated and cooled. Such huge energy bills can't be afforded by most homeowners. That is the reason for the emphasis on energy efficiency.

Given a choice many homes will opt for beautiful window designs of the past. But they can't afford the high energy bills that are bane of such homes. It is also a criminal waste when the environmental impact of our various activities are considered.

Jane Sawyer is a interiors expert. She has written about Window Designs on her website at http://www.windowdesigns.org.

Window Treatment Ideas

The best window treatment ideas are those which enable the buyer to pick the best possible materials and styles for getting the perfect look for the window.

Out of the many popular window treatment ideas, you can decide on the one you want to go for depending upon the type of window that needs working on. If the window is placed in the room where ample amount of light is required, then light colored curtains are suitable. The material of the curtains which would be most desirable in such a case would be cotton, linen, polyester and net. These styles of curtain fabrics allow light to pass through without compromising with the privacy. These types of curtains use up light colors like white and cream. Window treatment ideas like these are best suited for study rooms and kitchens where the interiors are supposed to be bright.

Apart from the light colored curtains, you can also put light colored shades and blinds. The blinds can be placed in a vertical, horizontal or rolling fashion. The material of the blinds also varies depending on the use. For a contemporary look and low budget solutions, one of the best window treatment ideas in blinds are the PVC blinds. These are heavy, strong and easy to maintain. These come in many colors and their slats can be placed horizontally or vertically depending upon your preference. The wooden blinds have a good visual appeal to them. These are best suited for rooms and houses with wooden finish. The wooden blinds are good for excessively bright rooms where the interiors of the rooms require darkening. Roman blinds are also quite popular. This category of window coverings are easy to handle can also be made at home using either new or old curtain fabrics.

Other window treatment ideas for overly bright rooms are curtains with heavy fabrics and dark colors. Such curtains coupled with the valances complete the whole look of the window treatments. Heavy shutters can also enhance the look of the windows drastically. The various shutter styles suitable for the purpose are raised panel or colonial style. Rolling blinds are available in various printing designs, semi-light filtering and black-out type and these also give a new look to the windows. The rolling shutters can be placed both inside or outside the house and can be decorative due to the use of different colors or materials such as bamboo. Awnings are a common choice for highly lit rooms. The positive point in the case of awnings is that the window treatment ideas which make use of awnings allow breeze to come inside while keeping the sun out.

Every room requires different window coverings. The living room or the lounge windows must be both decorative and stimulating. Apart from the decorative curtains and valances, your windows can undergo a complete makeover by adding a huge ornate glass or a crystal shelf to the window. This would replace the simple and drab look with exquisiteness.

The window treatment ideas and styles like the awnings, bay, casement, sliders, grille panels and stained glass can be used for remodeling your windows.

Window treatments can be carried out from the outer side of the windows too. The box bay windows commonly used in kitchens have a protruding shelf which can be used to keep potted plants for decorative purpose. If you are a plant lover, then climbers are a wonderful way to decorate your windows from the outside. This is suitable for the small windows which are used less frequently. Window treatment ideas that are based on the country themes can be quite exciting. You can choose a theme like Arabic, French or Italian and decide on the window architectures depending upon the chosen theme. These architectures are quite different from each other and have a range of designs for window treatment ideas which you can adopt for your windows.

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Window Treatment

Curtains, drapes, blinds, shades, sheers, shutters can produce a clean, neutral backdrop or provide a full-dressed flourish. In either case, the way you choose to treat your windows lends rhythm to a room, adding pattern and color, light and shadow. As with the pleats and folds of a beautifully draped garment, you can tailor almost any kind of dressing to your windows, to stand out on its own or to reinforce the room's style.

Window treatments help to define the decor of a room. They are a visual filter between indoors and out. Create a shelter with a soft wall of texture and color or let light come streaming in.
Tips

* First determine which treatment is appropriate for your room. Notice where the light falls and think about how you use the room.

* Consider using double-rod draperies; that way you have both a basic, year-round layer closest to your window, and a second, outer layer that can be changed easily with the seasons. Pick up a color of the season to echo flowers blooming in your garden. In winter, create a cozier or more elaborate treatment with lush fabrics in warm or metallic hues. Heavier fabrics help retain heat, and deeper colors offer respite from winter's cold palette. In spring and summer; a light outer layer lets you open the windows to feel the breeze; materials are generally solid and subtle, in simple weaves like linen and cotton.

* Think about how you like your window treatments feel and function before choosing type, color, material, and style. heavily draped, opaque window treatments tend to be more static and sculptural. Lighter or transparent ones have more movement and seem more casual.


* With interesting details around your windows like moldings, bed board, or brick, you can can think of inner layer as a tonal extension of the wall and keep it simply neutral. Or, you may want to draw more focus; plain walls may benefit from treatments that create graphic interest.

* Choose decorative rods, finials, holdback, and ties that lend elegance or whimsy to your windows. Using garlands of beads, colorful ribbons, or silk scarves as tiebacks can add a creative touch to your windows for the holidays or for celebrations. With window treatments, options are nearly limitless.

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