CurtainFabrics Maximizing Double Hung Windows

Double hung windows are a popular choice for allowing natural light into homes while maintaining privacy and insulation. With their characteristic vertically opening panes, double hung windows offer versatility in controlling light and ventilation. However, to truly maximize their potential, the right window treatments are key. Curtains not only enhance double hungs visually but also improve energy efficiency, noise reduction, and customization abilities.

Measure Correct Curtain Lengths

Achieving the ideal curtain length is pivotal for properly outfitting double hung windows. To find accurate measurements, first examine window anatomy. Important dimensions needed are the distance from the rod pocket or header tape to the floor, as well as the overlap beyond the window frame on each side. For floor length, add 2-3 inches to prevent light seeping from underneath curtains. Choose whether you prefer puddled curtains bunching artistically on the floor or just kissing it.

Techniques for Measuring

Use a steel tape measure for maximum accuracy. Measure widths in several spots as old windows can be irregular. Note the shortest dimension to cut curtains precisely. For length, measure from where the rod will sit, not the window itself, to the floor. Having a partner greatly simplifies holding the tape steady vertically. Ensure you measure an exact midway point if centered over the window.

Customizing Lengths

While floor length suits most double hungs, consider your needs before finalizing dimensions. Custom lengths like sill length landing just above window trim offer easier operation. Cafe styles are midway down the glass to showcase decorative window molding. Hampered types puddle attractively on deep built-in shelves under windows rather than the floor. Do you have vents or radiators to work around or want daylight visibility at the bottom? Adjust to your exact functional and aesthetic preferences.

Select Best Fabric Types

An extensive range of fabrics exist for double hung window curtains. Prioritize use, privacy needs, and design style when selecting materials. Lightweight sheers showcase windows beautifully but offer minimal privacy. Middle weight cottons filter light well while providing casual softness. On the luxurious end, velvets in sumptuous colors make impressive style statements. Blackout lined fabrics prevent both light and UV rays in bedrooms for serene sanctuaries. Where insulation is needed, thermal curtains incorporate thick batting to improve energy efficiency.

Fabric Breakdown

• Sheers: gauze, voile, netting
• Lightweight: lace, chiffon, lightweight polyester
• Midweight: cotton, linen, twill, satin
• Heavyweight: velvet, brocade, faux silk
• Blackout: canvas, layered fabrics
• Thermal: flannel, quilted styles

Consider activity within the room when selecting optimal transparency. Bedrooms need darkness for sleeping, while living spaces want welcoming visibility. Modern metallic sheers filter sunlight beautifully without total exposure. Heavyweight velvets make dining space curtains to absorb sound during gatherings. analyzing usage helps determine the best fabrics for daylight, insulation, and design needs.

Choose Lining Wisely

While decorative outer fabric has the most visible impact, selecting a properly matched lining is equally important for maximizing double hung windows. Several lining options exist, each offering particular benefits.

Lining Types

Blackout lining: With 100% light blockage ability, blackout lining transforms any fabric into room darkening curtain. Helpful for bedrooms and media rooms, it prevents light and UV rays from peeking through.

Thermal lining: Made from insulating materials like flannel or foam, thermal linings add warmth by preventing drafts. Keep rooms cooler in summer and warmer in winter to cut energy costs.

Standard lining: Typically polyester or cotton, standard linings mildly improve privacy while allowing some light filtration. Less expensive than specialty linings, they softly finish basic curtains.

Lining Benefits

• Block outside light
• Insulate for sound and temperature
• Protect fabric from sun damage
• Increase privacy
• Enhance visual appeal

Strategic lining selections greatly expand curtains' versatility on double hung windows. Identify priorities between room darkening, insulation, and UV resistance when deciding on linings. An interior designer can help select optimal pairings between outer and inner fabrics. Investing in both equally ensures your curtains impress aesthetically while also functioning practically year-round.

Consider Design Styles

One exceptional advantage of double hung window curtains is their unparalleled ability to complement diverse interior design aesthetics. Modern metallic sheers, romantic ivory lace, coastal printed canvas, dramatic velvets -- all transform and enhance room moods. Consider your current decor style and color scheme when selecting window dressings.

Custom design options like alternating lengths or mismatched patterns on double windows make exciting statements. Alternatively, maintain harmony with identical curtain pairs sharing colors and fabric textures. Remember hardware finishes also contribute overall aesthetic. Black rods suit modern spaces while polished brass offers traditional elegance. By holistically planning colors, patterns and materials, your double hung window curtains will effortlessly complement your carefully curated interior.

Buy Proper Curtain Hardware

Selecting functional and durable curtain rods is imperative for smoothly operating double hung windows paired with curtains. Consider rod diameters, brackets, and finials to match your decor. More importantly, ensure adequate support strength for your curtain's total width and fabric density. Sturdier metals like steel and iron withstand weight better if using heavier blackout lined curtains.

Recommended Placement

Mount traverse rods at least 4-6 inches above the window frame for adequate stacking space when opening curtains. Extend rods 2-3 inches beyond window borders to prevent light seeping around curtain edges. If desired, place a second decorative rod above main functioning rod for a layered look.

Matching Components

Choose compatible rings, tabs and heading styles to coordinate with your decorative rod style. Look for gliding rings with nylon rollers that smoothly traverse metal rods. Or select tab tops to seamlessly integrate with flat rods. Heading types range from pinch pleat to grommet top for gathering material neatly on rods. Match components designed to work in harmony for optimal performance and visuals.

Master Layering Methods

While ample style and functionality comes from curtains alone, incorporating layered window treatments unleashes further potential from double hung windows. Start by hanging essential blackout curtains to fully darken bedrooms when closed. Softening their appearance during daytime open hours, filtered sheers still allow refreshing natural light permeation.

Strategic layering grants endlessly customizable light and privacy modulation. Start with essential blackouts for bedroom darkness and privacy. Soften their imposing presence with filtered sheers that still allow refreshing natural light when blackouts are open. Enhance insulation by adding insulation honeycomb shades. Finally, adjustable shutters take precise light tuning to new levels.

Maximize Energy Efficiency

With heat gain and loss major contributors to energy costs, one often overlooked benefit of curtains is their ability to improve thermal insulation. Specialized thermal curtains and strategically layered treatments significantly reduce heating and cooling expenses.

Savings Breakdown

• Prevent 35% heat loss through windows.
• Lessen heat gain to lower summer cooling costs.
• Reduce outside noise by absorbing sound.
• Lower energy bills by directly improving insulation.

During frigid winters, thermal curtains create an additional insulating air pocket between cold windows and warm interiors. Come summer, the opposite effect keeps sweltering rays from overheating cooled interior air. Year-round, homeowners benefit financially while enjoying optimized comfort.

Install Correctly

Skillful installation ensures double hung window curtains appear beautiful while functioning optimally for years to come. Carefully measure and uniformly mount traverse rods using anchors suited for your wall type. Clip rings correctly spaced along the rod or neatly secure tab tops for a polished look. Check draws to ensure unencumbered movement - no dragging or bunching as they glide smoothly across openings. With proper lengths, headings, weights and components, your curtains and windows work together in ideal synchrony both aesthetically and practically.

Smooth Function Checks

• Lightly push curtains aside to test unimpeded draw movement
• Confirm openings fully clear when draws pulled upwards
• Check exterior light blockage with curtains fully extended and closed

Periodically examine the entire system from fixtures to curtains themselves. Reanchor loose screws or brackets promptly to avoid larger sagging issues. Routinely check pulls and cleats ensuring smooth action for years of reliable service. With periodic inspections and care, your window curtains maintain both operational integrity and visual delight.

Styling Overall Looks

While layered light control and insulation maximize double hungs functionally, taking decoration further enhances their aestheticimpact. Accentuate with complementarywindow treatments like fraudulent roman shades with neat stacked folds. Frame the scene with elegant crown molding and highlight windows themselves with architectural trim details. Infuse personality by exhibiting favorite photos, plants or collected treasures on deep built-in recessed window shelves commonly flanking double hung windows. Finally, tie backdrapes with tasseled holdbacks to showcase pretty curtains and windowpanes alike for an irresistibly welcoming look.

Tying Back Techniques

• Bow ties: casual knotted ties
• Holdbacks: secured with decorative hardware
• Pullbacks: affix to wall for stationary effect
• Swag tying: center drapes into bundles

Experiment with different tying methods to vary daylight entrance and room views. Temporarily securing curtains fully exposes beautiful windows otherwise hidden when closed. Visually this style allows their full impact to elevate room decor. Tying curtains back also permits unencumbered sunlight while still providing quick release for complete privacy when needed.

Maintain Appearance

Regular cleaning maintains crisp curtains and properly functioning windows for years beyond initial installation. Dusting with soft horsehair upholstery brushes or vacuuming drapes extends time between deep cleaning. Spot treat stains immediately before they set. When washing, follow fabric care instructions precisely to avoid shrinking or bleeding. Steam press gently avoiding creased permanent folds which can damage flowing drape.

• Dry clean velvets and delicates unable to withstand water.
• Hand wash gently in cool water using mild detergent.
• Machine wash durable cottons and linens on gentle cycle with cool water.
• Air dry thoroughly before rehanging for crisp unwrinkled appearance.

Periodic nourishing keeps curtains looking rich and vibrant despite years of sun exposure. Hitting curtains with a steamer regularly revives crushed fibers to maintain alluring textures and stain resistance. With proper ongoing care, your curtains enhance beloved double hung windows for decades to come while saving energy, reducing noise and delighting all who enter with their welcoming beauty.