The Best Window Treatments for Every Type of Window

WINDOWS come in a lot of different shapes, sizes, and styles – and there is just as wide of a range of treatments to finish them off with.

But not all treatments work well with every window type – it pays to take your time and consider the best matches to suit your windows.

Awning or casement windows need a treatment that is hung outside the window frame, as the window needs to be able to be opened. These types lend themselves well to curtain panels and valances, though Roman-style shades can be fitted directly to the wall above the window which gives you much more control of how much light is being let into the room.

Single-hung and double-hung windows tend to look their best when fitted with Roman shades, and if there is enough depth in the frame, these can be inside-mounted.

Sliding windows naturally must be able to move freely, so mounting anything inside will literally prevent the window from moving. To that end, necessity dictates outside mounted treatments such as shades, blinds, valances, and curtains, which should be wider than the window itself, and hung high enough so as not to obstruct the window when it is being opened or closed.

Bay windows are ideal for blinds and Roman shades – especially as individual windowpanes tend to be smaller so each can have its own blind installed giving you maximum control of light and shade. Curtains can work but only if there is enough of a gap between the bay windows to allow them to hang without obscuring the window itself.

In a similar manner, bow windows work best with curtains or valances on a curved curtain pole – blinds are simply not an option as they cannot be made to account for curves.

Unusually shaped windows like arches are difficult to dress but can be made to look good by using a decorative peg centered at the top of the arch, and curtain material draped over it, held back at each side with tie backs.