Considerations Before You Buy Roman Shades
A focal point of interior design, window coverings are an important consideration for insulating properties as well as privacy. When you decide to use Roman shades, many factors should be kept in mind. Your interior design style, window style and climate are a few of these. Old fashioned windows that open inward may be a hindrance to Roman shade performance. Does this Spark an idea?
Other People Are Reading
-
Coordinate Color and Fabric to Blend with Other Decor
-
Whether you use Roman shades as the sole window covering, or as a primary window covering with drapes or curtains, consider color and texture. The color you choose should blend appropriately with other interior colors such as paint, furniture choices, and accessories. The texture can add luxury, as in velvety surfaces, or an airy feeling found with a smooth nearly sheer surface. Ensure the choice you make coordinates with the atmosphere you want in a particular area.
Insulative and Privacy Concerns
-
Do you want your Roman shades to add insulation to your windows? Check the lining material to find out how it is rated for this purpose. The more insulation the shades provide, the more likely it is the Roman shade also provides privacy. Consider whether you want light to penetrate the shades or not. Room-darkening Roman shades are also available. Roman shades made of lighter fabric may be translucent, allowing both light and heat to transfer through. These properties may be desirable in an open living area or den, but may not be preferred in a bedroom or bathroom.
-
Construction
-
Check your prospective Roman shades for quality construction. Roman shades may be purchased ready-made from stock or custom-made from a specialist. In either case, inspect the available samples for quality construction. Is the fabric and liner sturdy in appearance, or does it appear it might fall apart easily? Is the Roman shade assembled with glue and adhesives, or can you spot stitching and hardware holding it together? Checking for quality construction can save you from disappointment and shade failure in the future, especially when Roman shades are exposed to extreme heat, cold, or moisture. Ensure the hardware is sturdy and the mechanism through which the cords pass is adequate. Thin plastic rings may break easily with frequent raising and lowering of Roman shades. Cloth casings may wear out or bind the cord, necessitating the shades be pulled down with one hand as the cording is released with the other.
Additional Items to Consider
-
In addition to the above, test that the Roman shades you select open and close in a manner that works well for you. The style of fold when the shades are open should appeal to you as well. Some Roman shades have a built-in valance or trim at the top and bottom, while some do not. Tassels and trim can become playthings for pets or children, or can collect dust and require additional cleaning.
-
