Choosing the Right Window Treatment for Cincinnati Homes
Window treatment refers to blinds, curtains or anything used to enhance the aesthetics of a window. Every homeowner understands or should understand that the right window treatment must balance local architecture, style, weather and energy efficiency!
For a city like Cincinnati, with four distinct seasons that include cold winters and hot, humid summers, the decision of the type of blinds to use must be based on both aesthetics and functionality.
In this article, we will share a practical guide that will help homeowners in Cincinnati to pick the right window treatment that incorporates a respect for the local architecture and style, is energy efficient and ensures that the home is comfortable in all the seasons of the year. Meanwhile, you can check out this site for some fun facts about Cincinnati.
Major Factors to Consider When Choosing Window Treatment for Cincinnati Homes
The following are very important factors to consider when shopping for curtain/blinds for your windows:-
Match the Treatment to the Climate
Cincinnati, like we noted earlier, has hot, humid summers and cold winters; averaging as high as 80°F in summer and as low as 20 -30°F in winter. This seasonal swing makes insulation for heat retention and solar control for heat reduction very important considerations in the decision making process.
Consider the Architectural Style
There are many architectural styles in this region; these range from Greek and Federal Revival to mid-century, bungalow and Tudor homes. So you cannot pick any treatment without considering the style. For example, if your home is a historic row or Victorian home with tall, narrow windows, your best bet is in tailored, layered blinds such as Roman shades with decorative drapery. For a contemporary or mid-century home, you should be thinking of motorized roller shades or minimalist window treatments.
Prioritize Energy Efficiency
With the right curtains or blinds, you can reduce your HVAC cost by enhancing your home/window insulation and blocking out the sun when necessary. There are state and city programs that provide incentives for energy efficiency and also federal tax credits for some types of window upgrades. So, think of a combination of aesthetics and energy efficiency in any product or window upgrade. And look out for eligibility for those programs and tax credits before making a choice.
Best Types of Window Treatment for Cincinnati
We have stated the 3 factors that are very important to bear in mind while making a choice. Let’s go further to discuss window treatment in Cincinnati and the best types. This list is in no way exhaustive as you may find an unconventional option that still ticks all the right boxes.
Cellular Shades
These are also known as honeycomb blinds and they are functional for all seasons. They have air-trapping cells that constitute insulating layers that keep heat in during winter and out in summer. This is best for older single-pane windows that are most common with historic homes in the city.
Thermal/Blackout Curtains
These are thick lined curtains that are perfect for living rooms and bedrooms especially because of their insulation and light control features. These curtains are best mounted high with the rods extending beyond the window frames to facilitate the reduction of air gaps.
Exterior and Interior Plantation Shutters
These fit into the architectural style of Georgian, Federal and Colonial homes and give the home an aesthetic curb appeal. They also add extra barriers against drafts when they are closed.
Roller Shades with Solar Fabrics
These are ideal for mid-century/modern homes as their low-glare screens help to protect the interior of the home from the sun/UV and reduce the energy needed for cooling while keeping the view intact.
Layered Solutions
This refers to the combination of 2 or more treatments for insulation, style and flexible light control. For example, you can combine the solar roller with the lined drape or lightweight curtain with cellular shade
Practical Tips for Cincinnati Homeowners
The following are some practical tips that will help every homeowner in the region:-
1. Prioritize South- and West-Facing Windows– This is because they get the highest amount of sun in summer. Reflective blinds or solar shades are the most cost effective for these windows.
2. Insulate in winter – It is best to use heavy lined draperies or cellular shades for North-facing windows to help reduce drafts and heat loss. Click here for tips on how to insulate your home in winter.
3. Consider Resistance to Humidity and Mildew– Choose fabrics and liners that are moisture-resistant because the humidity in the region can promote mold growth. Ensure that you clean or wash the drapes seasonally.
4. Look out for UV Protection – Art, fabrics and hardwood fade with prolonged exposure to the sun. UV blocking liners and solar screens can help preserve the interiors.
5. Ensure Careful Measurement – It is recommended that you measure the height and width of the window at three points, which is the top, middle and bottom ad use the smallest measurement fir the inside mount fittings.
Conclusion
Window treatments should not just be about aesthetics and that is why we have shared this guide on how to get the best draperies and blinds in Cincinnati. One rule of thumb to always bear in mind is that the best treatment must always combine aesthetics with performance/functionality.
