How to Choose the Best Kitchen Window Treatments

You know how parties often go - everyone ends up in the kitchen. This is certainly true at my house. I am not sure why that is. Maybe it is because the hosts are often still cooking or preparing food and so the guests naturally want to hang out where the people are. Or, maybe it has something to do with the whole "hearth & home" aspect of our past, and centuries of life where staying warm was paramount and eating was more about survival than pleasure. Whichever it is, the kitchen is usually a place of congregation and comfort and therefore a natural focal point in most homes.

This is probably why the kitchen is one of the most common home remodeling projects. And, the right window treatments can add that finishing touch that can really make a room beautiful. Realtors and home appraisers know this and when they are assessing your home's value they look at the kitchen and bathrooms first because those are the rooms that can add real monetary value and influence a purchasing decision.

So, which window treatments are best for kitchens? One of the main factors that must be addressed is the environmental conditions that often exist, namely heat and humidity; and let's face it, sometimes even smoke. Because of these conditions, it is wise to purchase durable blinds and shades made from synthetic materials. For example, faux wood blinds and shutters. These also come in vinyl and composite.

If you are interested in preserving the view from your kitchen windows you may want to look into solar shades, which are a type of roller shade. Solar shades come in varying levels of opacity depending on how much light you want to let in. They are also made from synthetic materials and come in a wide variety of colors to match any décor. These types of shades look great and reduce the amount of solar heat gain as well as UV damage to your furniture or other home accessories. Similar to solar screens are roller shades. They too offer different levels of light filtering but also come in solid fabrics that offer greater room darkening, even blackout.

Next up are cellular shades and pleated shades. Both have a similar look, with folded pleats, but pleated shades don't offer the insulation of cell shades. Both are attractive, fairly durable and come in a wide variety of colors and textures. These types of shades offer a classic look and are a great way to inject some color into your kitchen's décor. If you are interested in greater insulation, cell shades are one of the best and they come in single cell, double cell and triple cell with the latter offering the most. Additionally, these shades can be ordered with the top down/bottom up option which is a great way to let in light while still preserving privacy.

There are other choices such as mini blinds, roman shades and woven woods. But, in my opinion the latter two options are not ideal because they are, more often than not, made with fabrics that are a little less easy to clean which over time can be a pain. Mini blinds will work fine but again, cleaning each individual little slat is a cumbersome process. If you have ever had to clean mini blinds you'll know what I mean. I would recommend to stay away from wood blinds and shutters in the kitchen as they are not quite durable enough for the kitchen environment.

There you have it a mini guide to kitchen window treatments. My personal favorites are solar screens, vinyl plantation shutters and faux wood blinds; they are some of the best choices for your kitchen. - David Brooks

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Dave_Sean_Brooks

Tags: Kitchen, Window, Treatments, Choose

DIY Comfortability With Vinyl Shutters

Vinyl shutters dramatically affect the way you make effective use of light and shadow. Installation of Vinyl shutters itself give you an excellent chance to manipulate the ways you implement the usage of light. They are both outdoor and indoor Vinyl shutters. They not only improve the beauty of your interior home designing but also are a mark of appreciation. They serve both the purpose of interior designing and even add artistic look to the outdoor space.

Think about implementing your own thoughts and creativity into your interior decoration. The feeling of doing so itself makes you happy Right? So here is the equal chance for you. Rather than calling an interior decorator or an expert you may go for Do-it-yourself package. It fits best to those people who are willing to do it themselves with special sensibility. Don't worry its at all not complicated. The package comes with all the required tools and hardware. However it may be advisable you call an expert if you are going for more sizeable custom shutters.

They thought of wooden windows gets overnight cracks, colour fading, paling and scratching etc... that's not the case of Vinyl shutters. They are or you can say they should be manufactured from exterior grade vinyl. This ensures their durability when compared to wooden qualities. The colour also is durable enough. The shutters with aluminum reinforcements have higher strength.

That's not all here comes the chance of success to your ever desire of improving the look of your bathroom and kitchen. These areas are highly humid so they demand a particular product which can withstand the humidity. Here is the solution for this also. The moisture resistant properties of vinyl make it more prone to such circumstances. This makes it a well defined and obvious solution to give you the chance to give final touches to your desire.

Now comes the best ever heard factor, the high insulation factor. This factor makes them comfortable to reduce noise pollution and keep the outer noise interference away.

They availability of vinyl shutters in different sizes and shapes make them more compatible to different windows in your home. There is a small component that's worth consideration in vinyl shutters that is the smooth adjustable screw. Make sure it is easy to be used as the comfortability to use makes it more useful.

Do keep in mind the colour factor as overlooking it lands your home in a funny look. Make sure the colour of vinyl shutters add beauty to the place or room and complement the painted appearance of your room. If you wish to go for shutters with wood like appearance, keep in mind that it maximizes the light filtering ability of the shutters.

These are available in every possible creative and imaginable manner. This makes it more comfortable to make a choice. There are designs with sun protection factors which you may proceed for if you are that conscious about sun protection.

Go ahead a well organized new pattern is awaiting you. Good luck...

Adam Peters is the author of many resources on vinyl windows related topics published at http://www.home-decorating-reviews.com Read additional info on plantation shutters or interior shutters

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Adam_Peters

Tags: Comfortability, Shutters, Vinyl

Cellular Blinds, the Toyota Prius of Window Blinds

This article is for all those people who are concerned about global warming and want to make their home as energy efficient as possible. Cellular shades, also know as honeycomb shades, are an easy and relatively affordable way to lower your heating and cooling costs. This is good for you and the planet. More and more people are doing what they can by purchasing more energy efficient cars, replacing incandescent light bulbs with long-lasting florescent bulbs, adding solar panels and much more.

With the cost of energy so high these days, especially home heating oil, you may want to look into cellular shades. These shades, also called honeycomb shades have internal honeycomb-like cells that trap air. These cells are what make cell shades so energy efficient and, therefore, earth friendly.

These shades come in three levels of insulation: single, double and triple cell. Obviously the triple cell variety offers the greatest level of insulation and cost the most. But, the cost will be offset in the long run by the insulation benefits. This is true of any of the cell shade varieties. Consider them a long term investment.

Cell shades are also made for just about any window type, including vertical blinds, skylight shades and even for arched windows. So, if you wanted to, you could outfit your entire house. And, though energy efficient, cellular shades look great and are highly functional. Most come with advanced options like motorization, top down/bottom up and continuous cord so you don't have to give up any of the cool conveniences available in window treatments these days. They also come in a large spectrum of colors to match just about any décor.

There are also available models that offer substantial room darkening, sometimes called blackout cellular blinds. These are perfect for bedrooms, home theatres, really any room that you want to make dark.

I lived in New Hampshire for many years and I purchased cellular blinds for my entire house and I was glad that I did. It was a significant expenditure at the time but over many ling, cold winters I was glad to have them. And, when it came time to sell my house, the buyers were happy to see the energy efficiency of all those shades. I know these were one of the reasons that they ended up buying my house. The same holds true for hot climates, where insulation is still a major factor, just in this case it is about keeping the cool air in.

There are other insulated window treatment choices, though they aren't as energy efficient as cell shades. There are plantation shutters, especially the vinyl or composite variety. Pleated shades also offer some insulation but, again, not as much as honeycomb shades. If cell shades just aren't your bag, or if you don't want honeycomb shades in every room, you can improve the insulation properties of almost any blind, shade or drape by adding a lining. This is an option and will cost you extra. Again though, I would stress that a little extra expense now will save you money in the long run.

If you want energy efficient window blinds, go with cellular blinds, the one with the honeycomb soul. - David Brooks

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Dave_Sean_Brooks

Tags: Cellular, Toyota, Window, Blinds

Window Shutters On A Budget

While there is great value in installing custom-made interior wood window shutters, sometimes they are still too expensive for certain applications. Some alternatives – including poly or vinyl shutters – are less expensive but also much less attractive. For a high-quality solution at a lower cost, look for a company that sells individual solid wood shutter panels that can be installed in any configuration.

When shopping for individual shutter panels, there are a few considerations to keep in mind. The most important factor is the material used to make the interior shutter panels. Basswood has the best characteristics for window shutters because it is a very straight hard wood with little distortion. Basswood also has a fine, uniform texture and indistinct grain, which make it superior for staining or painting. You should also look for a company that can make a large number of panel sizes so you can receive the best final fit for your window.

How To Determine Individual Panel Sizes to Order

It is best to determine how you will mount your shutters before ordering the shutter panels. Sometimes it is necessary to use hanging strips to attach shutters to the outside of the window opening. A reputable company will provide information about different installation methods so you can determine how best to install on a specific window.

Width:

Measure the width of the area you want the shutters to cover (NOT including any trim strips).

1. Divide this width by the number of panels you want across the window. This will give you the approximate width of each panel. Round this measurement up to the nearest 1/4 inch.

Example:
Width = 36-7/16"

Divide by 4 and round up to nearest 1/4"

Order (4) shutter panels 9-1/4" wide

Height:

Up to 1" may be trimmed off the top and the bottom of each individual panel (a total of 2" per panel).

1. For a two tier unit (panels across the top and bottom), combine individual panel heights as required.

Finishing

A high-quality wood shutter panel can be painted or stained to a beautiful finish. Even if the shutters arrive and seem fairly smooth, a light sanding is advised before beginning the finishing process. After sanding and brushing off any dust, primer and paint can be applied. Often a more smooth finish is achieved by spraying the primer and paint, although the use of a high-quality brush can also result in a nice finish. When staining, follow the instructions given by the stain manufacturer. The stain manufacturer may recommend applying a wood conditioner before staining in order to ensure even stain color penetration.

Once your shutters are finished and installed, you will have a high-quality product that will increase the value of your home at a fraction of the cost of custom-made shutters.

ShutterLand Interior Shutters provides solid wood interior window shutters sold as individual shutter panels. Interior window shutters come unfinished, ready to paint or stain. Plantation and traditional style shutters are manufactured direct in hundreds of sizes, sold at a discount, and shipped quickly nationwide.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Sarah_Vande_Krol

Tags: Window, Shutters, Budget

Blinded by the Light? Vertical Blinds May be the Answer

We all hear the positive references to light. Phrases such as let the sun shine in and Light up my life all have us making our way into the rays. However, the grand irony of the sun and excessive light is that it can blind as well as aid in sight. Letting in light can show off a room and leave it with a warm, tingly glow. There are times however when we want to dim that light just slightly. Other times, we may wish to completely stop the light from entering at all. On occasion the light thrusting in is more of a curse than a blessing. The answer to this problem is vertical blinds.

Vertical blinds provide the perfect solution to light control problems. They allow you to adjust them according to the amount of light you want to allow in. You can have the sun coming in at full force or none at all and varying stages of light filtering in between. Whatever your choice for the moderated natural lighting, you can manage your illumination using vertical blinds.

There are literally hundreds of vertical blind types, leaving the buyer spoiled for choice. The obvious question is which type of vertical blind is the best to buy? If you are looking for something basic and inexpensive but yet, not unsightly then aluminum vertical blinds could be the answer for you.

Aluminum Vertical blinds are a great option. They are small, lightweight and easy to install. Their design and flexibility also makes them easy to clean. They are perfect for office, workshop and garage use. They are also perfect for many other rooms in the home.

Aluminum vertical blinds are also very easy to use. They can be adjusted by the cords on either side making it possible for you to allow in the amount of light you choose. They reflect the rays of the sun away so as well as blocking out the light one can also cut down on air conditioning bills. More than all of this, you can select from a wide range of standard colors, think about the primary colors, and a range in between. You may also be interested in specialty colors, like wood styles and more. Although they are rather basic, vertical window blinds provide and easy and inexpensive solution to light control problems.

When you are interested in allowing natural light in throughout the day, consider fabric vertical blinds. Fabric verticals, when made from high quality woven materials, can be beautiful, and can last a long time. In addition to this beauty, what we are really concerned with here is lighting. Consider that when the fabric vertical blinds are moved to the side, and are out of the way, you can allow nearly all of the light to enter the room. Next, consider that the blind can be moved across the window to be open, but ready to rotate. When rotating the blinds, you can have as much as one hundred eighty degree control. This means that when you close the fabric vertical vanes, you can flip them completely I the other direction to change the light filtering of the vertical blinds. You can move anywhere in between, for real control.

There is a major environmental and ecological benefit of fabric vertical blinds. When you completely darken a room with PVC vertical blinds, you are forced to create light inside the room to see. This means that if you only want to have a little privacy, you can keep your lights off, thus saving electricity with fabric vertical blinds.

PVC Vertical blinds, also called plastic vertical blinds, also can help to control the blinding light. These do not have to be unattractive plain pieces of plastic. Those days are gone. You can choose among a range of attractive styles for PVC vertical blinds. The range of colorful PVC verticals is increasingly large, with textured and patterned designs. And these also allow you to block all of the light, or only a little of it. When choosing PVC vertical blinds, select a thicker plastic pattern; it can offer better resistance to the damage of the sun. These thicker materials will hold their shapes and colors longer. Remember, as destructive as the intense light from the sun can be to your eyes, it can also be bad to the products that protect you from the sun.

We all love light and the rays of the sun, however there are times when having light pouring in just isn’t practical. For these times, a set of vertical blinds could be the perfect solution. Being easy to install and clean, as well as allowing you to control the light, one can hardly go wrong with this choice. Vertical blinds are available in high quality from many places. Get a set today and stop squinting.

Judith Persit writes about vertical blinds. Learn more at BlindsFactoryDirect.com, vertical blinds, plantation shutters, roller shades , cellular shades & wood blinds.

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Source: http://www.articlealley.com/article_198557_27.html

Tags: Blinded, Answer, Vertical

Insulated Window Treatments

Insulating window treatments are a smart choice no matter what type of climate you live in. It does not matter if you live in Minnesota or Arizona, insulation is important. I live in San Diego which you may think is a place you never need insulation and the way the homes are designed here, you would think that was true. But it is not. During the winter, the temperature can get down in the 40s and in the summer it can be 100 degrees. And, with little insulation you really feel both extremes.

One of the major culprits of poor insulation is your home's drafty old windows. Fortunately, it is also one of the easiest areas to improve. First, I would recommend checking the caulking around your window, because there's no sense investing in insulated window treatments if the draft can still sneak around the corners. But even if your windows are air tight, you can still suffer from convection drafts when warm inside air hits the cold window panes.

Time was, not that long ago that your choices in window treatments was somewhat limited, especially when it came to energy efficiency. The good news, though, is that now you have many options when it comes to insulated window treatments.

First, you can choose cellular shades. Top quality manufacturers like Hunter Douglas, Levolor and others have developed innovative cellular shades that use single, double and triple layers of individual cells to stop and absorb drafts. These cellular shades are available in varying light control levels, from semi-opaque to blackout, depending on your requirements and, style-wise, they can go formal or casual.

A classic alternative to cellular shades is traditional insulated drapes. Some retailers offer heavy fabric roman shades with concealed magnetic strips to better trap cold air. Pick a heavy fabric to ensure maximum insulation, or even consider a two-layer treatment with the heavy fabric on the outside and a more decorative color or pattern for the interior. Not only does this provide maximum temperature control, it also allows you to choose color and fabric combinations. Or, you can combine cellular shades with an insulating drape-style for maximum efficiency that also offers a beautiful layered look.

A lesser known insulating window treatment is plantation shutters, especially composite or vinyl shutters. Shutters don't have quite the insulating properties of cellular shades but they are substantial and offer a fair amount of insulation when fully closed.

As a side note, all blinds and shades should be installed as flush with the panes as possible without interfering with the covering's operation for maximum insulation affect.

In the end, what you choose will be dictated by your budget and style preferences. If you have the budget for it, triple cell cellular shades are the most efficient. But maybe you live in a milder climate where that much insulation is unnecessary. Either way, over time, your investment will pay for itself in fuel savings and general comfort of a warm and cozy or cool and refreshing home environment.

So, if you are looking for insulating window treatments, consider cellular shades, insulated roman shades or drapes for those drafty windows. - David Brooks

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Dave_Sean_Brooks

Tags: Insulated, Treatments, Window

Wood Shutters - Choosing Well to Weather Water, Wind and Warping

Well-crafted, durable wood shutters - whether interior or exterior - represent an investment in your home you will never regret. Apart from contributing to the elegance, grace and atmosphere of your dwelling, wood shutters will prove their worth in many practical ways over time - not the least in protecting your home from the harsh extremes of sun and storm!

Exterior wood shutters are available in a number of basic designs. These range from the raised panel that is particularly popular in coastal areas, to the familiar fixed louver. Alternatively opt for "country style" board and batten, or an exotic, but practical bermuda wood shutter installation.

What should you take into consideration when deciding which wood shutter set to order?

To start with you will need to decide what look you are trying to achieve, and this will depend largely on the style of your home. Wood shutters can be designed to complement just about any residence, but cost will of course play a much bigger role in highly customized, and fully functional wooden shutters.

Before making this major home improvement decision, look at your general interior design, patio design, and patio furniture. Your window shutters should blend into, and enhance these aspects.

You will also want to ensure that the right wood is used for a durable, and warp-resisting wood shutter. Although many woods are used in the construction of wood shutters, the woods of choice are Western Red Cedar, or Mahogany. Vertical-grained wood is also more resistant to warping.

If wood-work isn't your cup of tea, take a carpenter-friend along to check the quality of construction, especially the joints. Mortise-and-tenon joints are much more durable than screwed, or butt-glued joints. While you're at it, also ensure that you get wood shutters with copper or aluminum capping for more protection from the elements.

Interior wood shutters can be considered part of the furniture, and if the right design is chosen, they contribute greatly to the atmosphere, elegance and warmth of a room.

Even though interior wood shutters are not directly exposed to the same range and intensity of the elements as exterior shutters, they will still need to properly deal with temperature changes and design stresses. To avoid warping and other alignment problems, wooden shutters constructed of 100% hardwood, such as American Yellow Poplar and Elm, are well suited to the role.

Of course, interior wood shutters are also more than mere decorations! They are excellent insulators to keep temperatures at a comfortable level.

Don't go for the first fit-all-sizes window shutters you come across. By doing some research, and getting lasting, stylish and functional wood shutters, you will greatly increase the value of your home!

Awnings-and-Blinds.com - Read the Plantation Shutter article at Awnings-and-Blinds.com - also by Rika Susan of Article-Alert.com.

Copyright 2006 Rika Susan. This article may be reprinted if the resource box and hyperlinks are left intact.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Rika_Susan

Tags: Wood, Shutters, Choosing, Weather

Why I Love The Romantic Hotel Rooms Of The Villa Florence

There are lots of excellent places for romantic getaways---tropical beaches, charming cities, or remote islands, for starters. One of America's most fascinating cities is easily San Francisco. To enhance the romance, however, you have to be picky about your lodgings. If you are not careful in your search for romantic hotel rooms, you could wind up in a poor location in a room that is nothing special and has paper thin walls. How romantic can your getaway be, after all, if you have to shout at your true love over the sound of Man Versus Wild blaring from your neighbor's room? For true romantic hotel rooms, boutique hotels are a great choice, and in San Francisco, the Villa Florence reigns supreme. The hotel is a vacation in itself! The Italian style romantic hotel rooms are luxurious and posh, the restaurant is to die for, and the company is fine!

Gorgeous is the best way to describe the warm, romantic hotel rooms of the Villa Florence. The windows actually open, and they are graced by lovely plantation shutters. High ceilings suggest antique luxury. Soundproof walls and ceilings add privacy. Finally, the furnishings feel like a home instead of a rented hotel room.

These romantic hotel rooms are just one of the advantages of the Villa Florence. From the complimentary evening wine receptions to the fine restaurant, the Villa Florence is a treat for the palette as well as the eyes. The location could not be more ideal, either. The Villa Florence is situated in Union Square in the heart of San Francisco. There is no better jumping off place from which to explore this amazing city! Hop on the famous Cable Car line and go anywhere, or stay close to home and take advantage of all the nearby shopping, theater, and museum opportunities.

Few cities on earth are as romantic as San Francisco. Its storied past and vibrant present make it an exciting place to share with someone you love. Of all the romantic hotel rooms the city has to offer, however, none are, in my opinion, as lovely as the ones in the Villa Florence.

Henry Dickinson is an Author and Journalist based in Encino, California.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Henry_Dickinson

Tags: Rooms, Villa, Hotel

The Charm of Traditional Shutters

For those wanted to give their home an instant facelift, traditional shutters are a great option. Window shutters add style and grace to a house, transforming it into a warm and welcoming home. From brick homes to stucco, old-fashioned to modern, traditional shutters will transform most any home.

By definition, traditional shutters are ¾-inch thick with 1¼-inch wide louvers. By regular usage, however, traditional shutters are wooden window covers with a traditional look. They can be flat panels, raised panels, louvered, or a combination.

Traditional shutters are available in most types of wood, including pine, oak, cedar, and maple. They can be unfinished or painted any color desired. For the look of wood without the hefty price tag, they are also available in faux wood or vinyl. One advantage of these wood imitators is that they do not warp or crack like wood can. They are also easier to care for.

Traditional shutters are readily available in a variety of stock sizes. For windows with an unusual size or shape, custom shutters are available.

For a new twist on an old idea, try traditional shutters with fabric inserts. These shutters have the traditional frame, but the center section is cut out. This allows for the insertion of fabric or bamboo. This offers unlimited decorating possibilities.

Traditional shutters are relatively easy to install for the weekend do-it-yourself handyman. If you are not that adventurous or you simply prefer to have someone else do it, many companies offer installation. Local contractors and home improvement handymen will also install shutters, usually at a minimum price.

For value and beauty, it is hard to beat traditional shutters. They provide instant warmth and hospitality to any home. Whether you are looking to match your home’s décor, complement it, or offer contrast to it, shutters can accomplish your goal.

Shutters Info provides detailed information about exterior, interior, plantation, hurricane, wood, vinyl, custom, and traditional shutters. Shutters Info is the sister site of Roman Shades Web. Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Jimmy_Sturo

Tags: Charm, Traditional, Shutters