Window Control and Exposure

What are window control and exposure solutions? Why is it important to consider where the blind window cords are on shades? My answer is, it can be important. Is the cord control on the FRONT or the SIDE of the window treatment? This should be another deciding factor if you are trying to sleep during the day.

Most window shades and blinds with the cord controls in front will leave less light gap on the sides than the ones with the controls on the side. That's why custom roman blinds, the cellular window shades, or the pleated window shades are so popular. The window control and exposure here have a very tight fit in the windows, the blind mechanism is usually in front, and there is very little light leakage on the sides.

Likewise with the cassette-type headrails. These are the shades and blinds that the shade disappears into a round cylinder called a "cassette" which houses the roller base. It is usually covered with the same fabric of the window treatment.

Cassettes need the fabric to be cut more narrow to fit within the cassette resulting in wider gaps on the sides, thus creating a problem with window control and exposure sometimes. This is why many professionals will also suggest drapery panels on the sides; to eliminate most of the light gap. When you take into consideration the room needed inside the window for the cassette to fit, then take into consideration the room needed inside the cassette itself for the fabric to fit, adding these spaces together; this leaves considerable gaps on the sides of the windows.

So, if you fall in love with that window treatment roman blinds in a cassette for your master bedroom that has light gaps; sometimes, as well as the functionality of covering the gaps, it's just the right touch to "polish" the end result, by adding beautiful drapery side panels. This will solve your window control and exposure problem; OR make sure the shade it is mounted on the outside of the window perimeter and extends at least two inches over on each side. There is always a solution after you think through what your needs and challenges are.

Window Exposure Solutions

What are the exposures of the windows you are treating with the window shades? Is it a hot west window? Or is it a cold north exposure? Is it a dark room due to the shade of the tree outside the window? Or is it a room that has too much light but with a view that just needs to be "filtered" a little? There are many window exposure solutions, but a couple are Bamboo window treatments or sun shades.

For more information on window treatments about the exposure elements of heat and cold, be sure to read my article about Window Treatment Damage Protection.

I'm especially fond of bamboo. It's earth-friendly, functional, and can be incorporated in many areas of your home, like windows, flooring, bedding, etc. Find some of the endless uses for bamboo in your home at Bamboo Inspiration. While both are popular choices, you can learn more about the energy efficiency at Home Energy page. and it will give you more information on window exposures.

For as many different window configurations you can imagine, there are twice as many window coverings you can use to dress them. Window shades and blinds are a clean, unobtrusive finish to any room. Just be aware of where the cord controls are and the light gap that results, if any.

Dress them up, dress them down; they are one of the most functional and aesthetically pleasing to the eye window dressings out there. You are only limited by the set of challenges you set for yourself. There are always solutions. You can explore your ideas and window design possibilities in many fabrics, textures, colors, and styles.

You are only limited by your desire to dream and explore. The right professional will be able to help you make the perfect selection among the wide range of window shades and blinds available to you today. Be aware of how important the location of your window control and exposure are to your final decision to purchase. Just bring your imagination and set yourself free. Enjoy the journey!

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