14 Natural Light Killers: Window Treatment Mistakes to Avoid

garlic, cactus, window

The unsung hero of interior design, natural light can breathe new life into drab rooms. Yet, by making poor decisions about their window treatments, many homeowners unintentionally block the light from entering their homes. It’s as if you were to throw a party and then lock the sun out!

Visualize the sun’s rays streaming in through your windows, which act as the home’s eyes. Now imagine those same eyes strained behind loose-fitting shades or, even worse, completely blindfolded. That is the basic result of our careless choices in window coverings. Rest assured! We hope that by illuminating these typical pitfalls, we can assist you in avoiding them.

Natural light in our homes is increasingly important, according to recent studies. Research published in the International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health in 2021 indicated that people’s mood, cognitive function, and general well-being are all greatly enhanced when they are exposed to natural light indoors. This emphasizes how important it is to have window coverings that let more light in rather than less.

This table lists fourteen typical window treatment blunders that block natural light, along with descriptions of each and suggestions for how to fix them:

MistakeExplanationHow to Fix
Using dark, heavy curtainsBlocks most light, creating a gloomy atmosphereOpt for light-colored, sheer curtains
Choosing blackout blinds for all roomsEliminates natural light completelyUse blackout blinds only in bedrooms, light-filtering options elsewhere
Incorrect curtain rod placementToo low or narrow placement limits light entryInstall rods higher and wider than the window frame
Overuse of layered treatmentsMultiple layers obstruct light flowSimplify treatments, use single layer when possible
Neglecting top-down shadesLimits control over light and privacyInstall top-down, bottom-up shades for flexibility
Using solid shuttersBlocks light when closed for privacyChoose plantation shutters with adjustable slats
Ignoring window size when selecting treatmentsIll-fitting treatments block light unnecessarilyMeasure carefully and choose appropriate sizes
Selecting overly ornate valancesCan block the top portion of windowsUse simple, streamlined valances or skip them altogether
Failing to clean windows regularlyDirty windows reduce light transmissionEstablish a regular window cleaning routine
Choosing dark window framesAbsorbs light instead of reflecting itOpt for light-colored or reflective window frames
Overlooking reflective surfacesMissed opportunity to amplify natural lightPlace mirrors strategically to bounce light around the room
Using vertical blinds in all spacesCan create harsh shadows and block lightReserve for large windows/doors, use horizontal blinds elsewhere
Neglecting exterior obstaclesTrees or structures blocking windowsTrim vegetation, consider window alterations if possible
Forgetting about UV protectionFear of fading leads to over-protectionUse UV-filtering films or treatments that allow light while blocking harmful rays

You can turn your house into a bright haven by staying away from these problems. The point is to embrace the sun, not run away from it. The windows in your home are a gift from nature; take care of them properly.

So, open the blinds and curtains and let the sunshine in. Your energy bill, your mental state, and your overall well-being will all be grateful. Ultimately, natural light ought to perpetually take center stage in the magnificent theater of home design!

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Bella Duckworth

Bella Duckworth

Total posts created: 2365
“Architecture is really about well-being. I think that people want to feel good in a space… On the one hand, it’s about shelter, but it’s also about pleasure.” – Zaha Hadid

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