Buying window treatments can be tricky, especially with many available options. Whether looking for blinds, curtains, or shutters in Melbourne, avoiding common mistakes can save you time, money, and frustration.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through the 10 most common errors people make when choosing window coverings and how to avoid them.
Ready to make the right choice for your home? Let’s dig into the tips for selecting the perfect window treatments without the hassle!
1. Ignoring the Purpose of the Room
One of the most common mistakes is choosing window treatments based solely on aesthetics without considering the room’s function.
Bedrooms often require blackout blinds or curtains for better sleep, while kitchens may benefit from moisture-resistant options like faux wood blinds. For living rooms, consider light-filtering treatments that balance brightness and privacy.
Designer window treatments can offer style and functionality, providing tailored solutions that meet your needs while elevating your space. Home offices might require blinds or shades that reduce glare on computer screens. Always match the window treatment to the space’s specific needs to maximise style and functionality.
2. Not Measuring Properly
Nothing is more frustrating than ordering window treatments that don’t fit, turning a once-exciting project into a hassle. Incorrect measurements can leave you with too short blinds, curtains that drag awkwardly on the floor, or shades that don’t function as intended.
Start by deciding whether you want inside or outside mounts, which will influence your measurements. Inside mounts require precise window width and depth, while outside mounts need extra allowance for overlap to block light effectively.
Use a steel tape measure for accuracy, and always note your measurements to the nearest eighth of an inch.
Measure each window at least twice, checking the width at the top, middle, and bottom, as windows are only sometimes perfectly square. For height, measure from the top to the bottom of the window frame or sill, depending on your chosen style.
If you plan to hang curtains, decide how far above the frame you want the rod installed—typically 4 to 6 inches higher—to create a dramatic effect.
3. Trying to Cut Costs on Installation
While DIY installation might seem like a money-saving idea, it often leads to more frustration than it’s worth. Improper setup can result in crooked blinds, damaged walls, or treatments that don’t function properly, forcing you to spend additional time and money fixing the mistakes.
Many DIYers need to pay more attention to the precision required for measuring, drilling, and securing brackets correctly, which can result in uneven finishes or misaligned treatments that detract from the room’s overall appearance.
Hiring professionals ensures a flawless installation, saving you time, effort, and potential stress. Professional installers have the tools, experience, and skills to handle various window types, including awkwardly shaped or large windows that may pose challenges.
They can also offer valuable advice on placement, mounting options, and treatment adjustments to ensure maximum functionality and aesthetic appeal. Additionally, professional services often include warranties on the installation, providing peace of mind that the job has been done right.
4. Forgetting About Energy Efficiency
Many buyers focus on looks and price but overlook the significant impact of window treatments on energy efficiency. Windows are a primary source of heat loss in winter and heat gain in summer, directly affecting energy bills.
By choosing options like honeycomb blinds, thermal curtains, or cellular shades, you can create an extra layer of insulation that helps stabilise indoor temperatures.
During winter, thick drapes or insulated blinds trap heat inside, reducing the need for excessive heating and keeping your space cosy. In summer, solar shades, reflective treatments, or light-blocking blinds prevent harsh sunlight from raising indoor temperatures, helping you rely less on air conditioning.
Honeycomb blinds mainly feature unique air pockets that act as barriers against temperature changes, offering year-round energy savings.
5. Choosing the Wrong Material
The material of your window treatment matters more than you think. For humid environments like bathrooms, natural wood blinds can warp over time. Instead, opt for faux wood or PVC alternatives that resist moisture and stay durable.
Luxurious fabrics like velvet or linen add sophistication to living rooms, while kitchens might benefit from easy-to-clean materials like aluminium or vinyl blinds. Consider UV exposure as well—fade-resistant fabrics are essential to maintaining colour and quality over time in sunny spaces.
6. Not Considering Maintenance
While some window treatments look stunning, they may be high-maintenance and time-consuming. Beautiful, delicate fabrics like silk, lace, or chiffon are prone to stains, dust accumulation, and general wear. These materials often require professional cleaning or special care, making them impractical for busy households.
Venetian blinds, while stylish and versatile, demand regular attention. Dust settles quickly on their slats, requiring frequent cleaning to maintain their look. Over time, paying attention to this upkeep can lead to discolouration and reduced functionality.
Roller blinds and cellular shades are excellent low-maintenance options. These treatments are durable, require occasional cleaning with a damp cloth, and are perfect for families with little time for maintenance.
Pet owners face additional challenges. Curious pets can easily damage lightweight curtains and blinds. Cords pose risks, and blinds may bend if pets lean against them. Opt for faux wood blinds, vertical blinds, or durable polyester curtains that resist scratches and are easy to clean.
7. Forgetting to Test Colour and Texture
Window treatments can look vastly different in-store or online than in your home. The lighting in showrooms or professional photos online often highlights fabrics in ideal conditions, but these settings rarely reflect the actual lighting in your space.
Natural light, artificial lighting, wall colours, and surrounding furniture significantly influence how fabrics and textures look. A perfect shade under showroom lights might look dull, too bright, or mismatched at home.
To avoid this mistake, always request fabric swatches or samples before making a final decision. During the day, natural sunlight can intensify certain hues, while at night, artificial lighting may wash them out or make tones appear darker.
By observing swatches under varying lighting conditions and next to existing decor elements, you can ensure the colours and materials blend seamlessly.
Texture also plays an important role. Fabrics like linen may add a rustic charm, while velvet brings elegance. However, both can look and feel different depending on your environment. Testing swatches lets you see how materials interact with your decor and touch them for quality.
8. Neglecting Privacy Needs
A common oversight is failing to address privacy requirements, especially for windows facing the street or neighbouring homes. Without proper privacy solutions, your personal space can feel exposed, creating discomfort and vulnerability.
Bedrooms and bathrooms, in particular, demand the highest levels of privacy. Opt for blackout blinds or heavy curtains that prevent visibility without compromising style. These options ensure security and block unwanted light for restful sleep or enhanced comfort.
Living rooms and dining areas must balance privacy and natural light. Light-filtering treatments, such as sheer curtains, roller blinds, or dual-layer shades, allow you to enjoy daylight while maintaining moderate privacy.
Top-down, bottom-up shades are exceptionally versatile, enabling you to adjust coverage to obscure views while letting sunlight in. Dual-layer blinds provide a sophisticated solution, offering flexibility to switch between sheer and opaque layers throughout the day.
9. Not Thinking Long-Term
Trendy window treatments might look appealing now, but will they still work for your home in five years? Trends come and go, and what’s fashionable today might feel outdated sooner than you think. Choosing timeless styles ensures that your window treatments remain relevant, regardless of how your home’s decor evolves.
Classic options like plantation shutters, Roman shades, or neutral curtains have enduring appeal. Their simplicity and elegance work well with various design styles, from traditional to contemporary, offering flexibility as you update furniture, paint, or accessories over time.
Investing in high-quality, durable materials is equally important. While cheap alternatives may look good initially, they often show wear and tear quickly, leading to replacements and higher costs in the long run. Materials like faux wood, heavy-duty fabrics, and aluminium are stylish and built to last, resisting fading, warping, or damage.
10. Overlooking Light Control
Different rooms require different levels of light control. Sheer curtains might look beautiful but won’t offer much privacy or block sunlight when needed. For bedrooms, blackout curtains ensure complete darkness for restful sleep.
Living spaces might benefit from light-filtering roller blinds that provide daytime privacy while still letting in natural light.
Consider options like roller blinds, cellular shades, or layered treatments for adjustable light control throughout the day. Dual-layer options allow you to switch between sheer and opaque, offering flexibility based on the time of day.
Conclusion
By avoiding these 10 common mistakes, you’ll be well on your way to choosing the perfect window treatments for your space. Careful consideration makes all the difference, whether it’s blinds, curtains, or shutters.
Ready to transform your home with the right window coverings? Contact Into Blinds today for expert advice and professional installation.
