Wood & Faux Wood Blinds
Usually made of basswood, these blinds address privacy and glare control. They are an aesthetically pleasing and affordable option. Wood blinds are usually offered with 1”, 2”, and 2-1/2” slats.
Faux Wood Blinds are made of a mixture of different polymers. They are heavier than wood, but offer easy maintenance and if you are matching trim color in any variation of white, you will find a color that will work.
Pleated and Cellular Shades
These shades work well when addressing energy conservation and comfort, and are also offered in a large array of colors. Pleated shades have folds (or pleats) that are available in a number of sizes. They are different from Cellular shades in that the latter can have anywhere between two to three additional layers that are attached in a way that a small, cellular tube is created that runs either the width of the window for horizontal shades, or lengthwise for vertical shades. These tubes act as an air shield against outside temperature and solar light.
Woven Wood, Roller, and Solar Shades
Increasing in popularity, these products address privacy, energy conservation and glare control. In addition, motorization is available in many cases. Austin has seen a boom in the sales of these products due to the increasing number of individuals choosing to live and work in an urban area, where windows tend to be large and out of reach.
Woven Wood refers to shades that are made, for the most part, in grasses, bamboos and organic materials. They offer all of the benefits of a shade, but each shade is “one of a kind,” and offers many homeowners an aesthetic satisfaction in their purchase.
Basswood Plantation & Faux Wood Shutters
Shutters still continue to be a popular choice for homeowners. They are usually offered in a 2-1/2”, 3-1/2” and 4-1/2” louver; and more frequently, can be made with or without a tilt rod in front. In addition, wood shutters can be crafted to work with arch and eyebrow windows—an architectural trend that is continuing to grow in new construction.
Faux Wood Shutters are made of a vinyl or polymer, and just like the 2” faux wood products, they are easy to maintain and in some cases, flame retardant. Due to the manufacturing process, they can offer a fairly quick turnaround time, and some fabricators have received environmental awards. In addition, there are now companies that use easily replaceable components—a good option for a growing family.
Soft Treatments
There is a myriad of options available in this category—draperies, curtains, toppers, Roman Shades, cornices, swags, jabots, to name just a few. Soft treatments can encompass all of the features and benefits of a window treatment—with an added emphasis on personal taste. But plan on spending a bit more time on design choices since not only will your face fabric play a role, but lining and hardware will need to be considered as well. And with some lines, a finial alone can be a cherished work of art.
Tableaux
Formed from a wood polymer, these grilles provide an exquisite design to any window. They will be created, by you, with your choice of design, finish, and density. In addition, screen fabrics are available to be inserted behind the grille, creating numerous light filtering options.