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Busting Common Window Covering Myths

Busting Common Window Covering Myths

Selecting window coverings can be a difficult process, made more difficult by the many myths floating around. We are busting common window covering myths so you can make your selections with confidence.

MYTH: Window Coverings Will Block My Views

They’re called window coverings, of course they will cover your windows and block your views, right? Wrong! At least they don’t have to. Products like Hunter Douglas Silhouette and Pirouette sheer shades provide filtered light and daytime privacy while maintaining your view. Stationary drapes can frame your view — bringing even more attention to it. Solar shades protect your interior from harsh UV rays while preserving views to the outside. There are lots of options that will provide the functionality you want without obscuring your views.

MYTH: Window Coverings Will Make My Home Too Dark

Window coverings can indeed make a home too dark if proper selections are not made, but this doesn’t have to be the case! There are many light-filtering options available. Hunter Douglas sheer shades can actually enhance natural light, dispersing sunlight deep into a room and reducing the need for electric light. 


There are also opaque opacities that can be fully raised into a small stack to allow in natural light during the day. Bottom-up operation allows for full privacy and natural light.

MTYH: Drapes Are Old-Fashioned

If drapes make you remember grandma’s house, you just haven’t noticed how drapes have modernized in recent years. Waterfall valences and tiebacks have been replaced with tailored drapes and streamlined hardware. Drapes can soften a room, add texture, and frame your views while providing privacy and light control. Don’t fall for this common myth and miss out on the advantages of draperies!

MYTH: Drapes Should Be Hung On The Window Trim

This common myth causes so many windows to look smaller than they are and block views and natural light. Drapes should be hung high and wide. This will make your windows appear bigger, your ceilings feel taller, let in natural light, and frame your views.

MYTH: Motorized Treatments Aren’t Compatible With My Home Automation System

Automated Hunter Douglas window coverings can be integrated with nearly any home automation system. This means you can operate your shades from the same device you control your lighting, music, and other home systems.

MYTH: I Must Automate Every Shade In My House

You certainly can but you may also opt to automate a handful of large or hard-to-reach shades and choose manual operation for the remaining window coverings. This can be a smart choice if there are some shades you don’t plan to open/close often or if you need to maximize your budget.

MYTH: Only Roller Shades Can Be Automated

Some companies can only automate roller shades — we are not one of those companies.  We can automate nearly any type of window covering including drapes, Roman shades, roller shades, sheer shades, blinds, interior shutters, exterior awnings, and outdoor shades. If a company tells you that roller shades are your only option for motorized operation, run the other way!

MYTH: Window Coverings Are All The Same

This is absolutely false! Different types of window treatments don’t just look different — they provide different functionalities. They have different opacities, features, and operations. Some treatments look better depending on your home’s style and aesthetic. And different brands offer different levels of quality. It’s important to do your research or work with an expert to determine which window coverings are going to meet your style, functionality, and budget goals.

MYTH: I Should Use The Same Treatment In Every Room

Each room in your home functions differently and using a one-size-fits-all approach with your window coverings will leave you disappointed. Instead, consider the lighting, privacy, and style goals of each room and select your window coverings accordingly. For example, you will likely want a treatment that will provide maximum privacy and blackout abilities for your bedroom while in the garage you may want a budget-friendly light-filtering option. 


We hope that by busting these common myths, you feel more confident selecting the right window coverings for your home. If you are in the Triangle area, we can help you avoid common pitfalls and expensive mistakes. Our expert design consultants will guide you through the process from selection to installation. Request a free design consultation here.