Window Treatment Guide

Follow our simple curtain guide to make the planning and buying process fun, easy and a beautiful success. 

Step 1: Gather Your Supplies

Grab some paper, a pencil, calculator, measuring tape and a good step ladder. Remember to take your tape measure along with your list of dimensions to the store with you! 

INSIDER TIP: HOW TO USE A MEASURING TAPE

-First, reacquaint yourself with standard measurements.

-Next, choose an area to measure.

-Place the hook so that it grabs one side of the area being measured.

-Pull the tape across the full area being measured and then lock it into place.

-Write down the measurement. If you have to round, round up so you won't be short changed on comfort. 

Step 2: Determine Where You Want Your Curtains To Fall

Curtains & Drapes Length Options 1. Just below the ledge. This works well for smaller windows, perhanps above the kitchen sink or in the bathroom. 2. Right at the floor. Perhaps the most common curtain placement. 3. Beyond the floor. Creates a puddling effect and is used for more formal luxe looks.

Step 3: Measure For The Curtain Rod Placement

You may have the curtains or draperies of your dreams, but window hardware is an important consideration, too. Your curtain rods need to be the right length and hung in the perfect place to achieve your desired effect. Follow our measurement tricks to get the designer look you want. 

Show a little more window To get the correct length curtain rod, measure the width of the window, then choose a rod 10-12" longer.  This will allow for 5-6" rod overhang on each side, so opens curtains frame the window instead of partially cover them.

Create an optical illusion  Make your ceilings appear taller by mounting the rod 4-8" higher than the top of the window casting. Optimal placement is in the center between the top of the casing and the ceiling trim- not to exceed 8".

Step 4: Choosing Your Curtains

So much of the decision in choosing the right drapes and curtains depends on the style of your room and personal preferences-especially when it comes to the fabric, color and pattern choices. That's the fun part! There are so many options, it's a great idea to look at magazines and note the styles that appeal to you.  

Here are a few considerations to keep in mind when making your curtain selection:

Energy Efficiency and Light Blocking

Windows account for 10-25% of a home's heat and cooling loss. Energy efficient curtains can help insulate your home. Blackout curtains help filter light, reduce outside noise and enhance privaxcy year round. 

Top Treatments 

There are 4 common top treatment options:

Step 5: Getting The Magic Number

Keep our cheat sheet, below, handy. This will help you determine the minimum number of panels and valances you'll need for a given window width.

DID YOU KNOW? A window valance's primary purpose is purely decorative? It's true. They're designed to keep curtain rods and other hardware out of sight.

Top Treatments 

Blinds and shades can dress a window alone, or they can add a rich layer to the look of your window, plus they provide privacy, can help conserve energy and control the ampount of light in a room. 

If you found this guide helpful, you may also be interested in our Patio Cushion Size Guide, found here.