Are you currently searching for blackout window coverings? Perhaps you want to know more about them prior to making a purchase. If so, this article is for you.
In this post, we will go over exactly what blackout window coverings are, their advantages, and tips for choosing the right ones.
Click on each corresponding link to jump ahead:
- What Are Blackout Window Coverings
- Advantages of Blackout Window Coverings
- Tips for Choosing the Right Blackout Window Coverings
Blackout Window Coverings
Continue reading to learn the benefits of blackout window coverings.
1. What Are Blackout Window Coverings?
Blackout window coverings are specialized window treatments designed to block out external light sources and create a dark environment within a room.
They are commonly used in bedrooms, home theatres, or any other space where controlling the amount of light entering the room is important.
Blackout window coverings are particularly useful for individuals who need to sleep during the daytime (such as shift workers and young children), for increasing energy efficiency, or for creating an optimal environment for watching movies or presentations without glare or unwanted light intrusion.
These coverings are typically made of thicker and more opaque materials (layered felt, velvet, or suede) compared to regular curtains or blinds. They are designed to effectively block out sunlight, streetlights, and any other sources of external light, providing maximum privacy and light control.
Blackout window coverings come in various forms:
- Blackout Curtains: These are heavy curtains made from light-blocking materials, often with multiple layers. They are designed to completely cover the window and prevent light from passing through the fabric.
- Blackout Blinds: These are window blinds that use specially designed materials or layers to block out light. They can be adjusted to control the amount of light entering the room.
- Blackout Shades: Similar to blinds, blackout shades are made of opaque materials that block light. They can be pulled down or up to control light levels.
- Blackout Roller Shades: These are roller-style shades that are made with thick, light-blocking materials. They can be rolled down to cover the window completely and rolled up when not needed.
- Blackout Cellular Shades: These shades have a honeycomb-like structure that traps air and provides insulation. They come in various levels of opacity, with blackout options designed to prevent light from entering.
- Blackout Window Panels: These are panels that can be combined with existing curtains or blinds to enhance their light-blocking capabilities.
Blackout window coverings offer several benefits beyond light control, including improved energy efficiency by reducing heat transfer and providing insulation, as well as enhancing privacy by preventing outsiders from seeing into the room. We will go over these advantages in greater detail in the next section.
They also come in a variety of colours, styles, and designs, so you can choose options that complement your interior decor while still achieving the desired light-blocking effect
2. Advantages of Blackout Window Coverings
Blackout window coverings offer several advantages that make them a popular choice for many homeowners. Here are some key benefits:
- Enhanced Sleep: The darkened environment created by blackout coverings can improve the quality of your sleep by promoting the production of the sleep hormone melatonin. This can be especially beneficial for people who are sensitive to light when they sleep.
- Child and Baby Bedrooms: Blackout coverings are often used in nurseries and children’s rooms to establish a dark and peaceful sleep environment for babies and young children. Research demonstrates that children sleep better in a room that is dark as opposed to one that has light.
- Shift Worker Convenience: For people who work night shifts or irregular hours, blackout coverings can create an environment that mimics nighttime conditions, making it easier to sleep during the day and maintain a consistent sleep schedule.
- Glare Reduction: Blackout window coverings are effective at reducing glare from direct sunlight, which can be particularly helpful in rooms where you watch TV, use computers, or work on screens. Reduced glare makes these activities more comfortable and less straining on the eyes.
- Light Control: The primary advantage of blackout window coverings is their ability to block out external light sources completely. This is especially useful for creating a dark and conducive environment for sleeping during the daytime or for individuals who work night shifts and need to sleep during the day.
- Privacy: Blackout coverings provide a high level of privacy by preventing outsiders from seeing into your living space, even when the lights are on inside. This added privacy can make you feel more comfortable and secure in your home.
- Energy Efficiency: The thick and opaque materials used in blackout window coverings provide additional insulation to your windows. This can help regulate the indoor temperature by preventing heat from escaping during colder months and reducing heat gain during warmer months, leading to potential energy savings on heating and cooling bills.
- Improved Audiovisual Experience: For home theatres or media rooms, blackout coverings ensure that ambient light does not interfere with your viewing experience. This allows you to enjoy movies and presentations in a darkened and immersive setting.
- Furniture Protection: Prolonged exposure to sunlight can cause fading and damage to furniture, fabrics, and artwork. Blackout window coverings can help preserve the colour and condition of your belongings by blocking harmful UV rays.
- Versatility: Blackout coverings come in various styles, designs, and materials, making it easy to find an option that matches your interior decor and personal preferences.
3. Tips for Choosing the Right Blackout Window Coverings
Choosing the right blackout window coverings involves considering various factors to ensure they meet your needs and preferences. Here are some tips to help you make an informed decision:
- Determine Your Needs: Identify the primary purpose of the blackout window coverings (e.g., sleep, privacy, light control, energy efficiency) to guide your selection.
- Consider the Room: Different rooms have different requirements. For example, bedrooms might need complete darkness, while living rooms might require some light filtering. Choose coverings that suit the room’s function.
- Measure Accurately: Measure your windows carefully to ensure a proper fit. Consider both the width and height of the window, and measure any irregularities or obstacles that might affect installation.
- Type of Covering: Explore different types such as blackout curtains, blinds, shades, and roller shades. Consider the functionality and aesthetic appeal of each type in relation to your room’s decor.
- Material and Opacity: Decide on the level of light-blocking you need. Some blackout coverings are designed to block 100% of light, while others offer varying degrees of darkness. The shades in the image to the right, for example, allow you to choose how much sun to block out.
- Colour and Design: Select colours and patterns that complement your room’s interior design. Darker colours might offer better light control, but lighter options can contribute to a brighter overall look. For expert interior design advice, contact us.
- Energy Efficiency: If energy efficiency is a priority, choose blackout coverings with insulating properties. Cellular shades, for example, have a honeycomb structure that helps regulate indoor temperatures.
- Ease of Use: Consider the ease of operation. Some blackout coverings offer motorized or cordless options for smooth adjustment.
- Installation: Decide whether you’ll install the coverings yourself or hire a professional. Some coverings might be more straightforward for DIY installation than others.
Remember that choosing blackout window coverings involves finding a balance between functionality, aesthetics, and your specific needs. By considering these tips and thoroughly researching your options, you’ll be better equipped to select the right blackout coverings for your home.
Graham's & Son Interiors - The Window Treatment Experts
If you would like to replace your old window treatments with new blackout window coverings whether they are shades, shutters, or blinds contact the professionals at Graham’s & Son.
With almost 50 years of experience in the home interior industry, you’ll appreciate our knowledge of quality products and the customer service you receive when you have your window treatment installed by Graham’s. We provide Free In-Home Consultations and take care of the Measurements, Product Ordering, and Installation. Contact us today to select the window treatments that suit your style and budget.
We are locally owned and operated and we can provide you with gorgeous and practical window treatments for any room in your home. We will give you expert advice, quality, custom-made products, and top-notch customer service.