Torgie's Point of View » NC

Window Treatments For Your Home 2012

torgie — Wed, 01 Feb 2012 01:33:34 +0000

The year 2012 is here bringing with it new and innovative ideas for home interior design. According to some home designers, window treatments are one of the easiest ways to update or create a new home environment. This is because window treatments can change the mood and restyle a room instantly depending on the type and color of window treatment chosen. What are some popular color and window treatment ideas for 2012?

A team of designers from all over the world meet each year to research and predict what will be the most popular colors for the new year. The CMG (Color Marketing Group), chose the color Boyz n Berry a deep rich purple with hints of red as the color of the year. Vicki Payne from For Your Home states, “Creams and whites add to purple create a sense of fresh openness and grey paired with purple and cream completes understated elegance.” Installing Hunter Douglas’s Heritage Hardwood Shutters in the color Linen in a room painted in a shade of purple or grey provides a dynamic color combo.

Window treatments that focus on organic and natural fabrics again dominate the home fashion industry and are a popular choice for 2012. Graber’s Tradewinds Natural Shades bring intriguing texture and natural warmth to any room. Cellular and bamboo shades in rich textured fabrics add an eco-friendly atmosphere to the home.

Neutrals are always a great choice. The neutral color greige, beige and grey continues to be a popular color used in interior design for 2012. A shade of greige on the walls combined with Levelor’s Room Darkening Shades in Sterling, a light and airy shade of blue adds visual interest to the room. These shades are made of a sheer fabric that lets just the right amount of soft light into the room and when closed they block out light protecting furnishings and adding to energy savings.

A new year is here and now is the time to create or update your home using the latest in window treatments. To help you select just the right color, design, and style combination for 2012 , call a professional window treatment company here in Wilmington, NC for a Free-IN-Home consultation.

Torgies (KP)

Window Treatments That Are Right For Your Home, Wilmington, NC

torgie — Wed, 09 Nov 2011 05:32:24 +0000

Why is it important to know what window treatments are right for your home here in Wilmington, NC? This is because there are thousands of window treatment styles, colors, materials, and design options to choose from. These many choices can be confusing and at times overwhelming. So, how do you decide which window treatment is right for your needs? The first item to consider is, your budget. How much do you want to spend. This can be determined by the amount and size of the windows you want to cover and whether you are thinking about standard or custom window coverings. With any decision it is important to consider the quality of material and quality of production which can add to the overall cost. For example, some experts say that to purchase quality standard treatments for a new home, you can expect to spend 2 1/2 to 4 1/2 % of your home value. Keep in mind, better quality window treatments initially cost more but usually last longer and look better which makes them a good investment.

The second item to consider, what direction the windows face. This is important to consider in order to make the best use of the energy efficiency of the window treatment you chose. Windows with eastern exposure get morning sun, windows with western exposure get afternoon sun and windows that face the south get sun all day. For example: Hunter Douglas “Alustra Duette” honeycomb shades can be a good choice because they are designed with energy efficiency for any window, no matter what direction it faces.

It is important to consider window treatments as an investment and not just an expense. They are essential to the overall design and look of the home. Be informed and do research before you buy. Contact a professional window treatment company here in Wilmington,NC for a Free-In-Home consultation.

Torgies (KP)

Wilmington,NC

Save Money with Exterior Solar Shades, Wilmington, NC

torgie — Fri, 07 Oct 2011 19:30:24 +0000

A quote by Russel Baker expresses an accurate thought when speaking about summer, “Ah, summer what power you have to make us suffer and like it.” This is certainly accurate when we think about the enjoyable days of summer, spending time with family and friends. However, the heat and at times extreme temperature may cause us to suffer. What can be done to help make our homes here in Wilmington, NC, more comfortable during that time of year?

Some have seen the wisdom of installing exterior solar shades on their windows, patios, and porches to help with summer’s heat and glare. For example, the most energy efficient home in the country shown on FOX TV in Chicago uses solar controlled window shades to reduce energy costs. These shades when installed outside the home reduce temperature in the home, blocking up to 90% of the sun’s UV rays. Exterior solar shades are made of all weather, woven, breathable fabrics in a variety of colors to fit any home. For ease and convenience these solar shades are retractable using a hand crank method or a motorized wall-mounted or remote device. These shades also give you extended living space outdoors if used in patio, or porch areas. Something else to keep in mind is these shades protect windows while still allowing you to see outside.

There are many products on the market to choose from. It is important to be well informed when making a decision about solar shades. SouthWest Sun Control is one company that carries a good variety of these shades. One product they offer is Phifer Suntex shade made of vinyl coated polyester that has a great deal of strength. For those environmentally concerned, Draper Screens offer “GreenScreen Revive Shade” made from recycled material. This shade uses “Microban”, an antimicrobial protection that works to stop the growth of bacteria, mold, and mildew which may stain or damage the shade.

Exterior Solar Shades while very helpful in summer, are also of value in the winter months. They work to reduce energy costs all year, saving you money. Functional, durable and fashionable, exterior solar shades do help keep you cool in the summer. To find the best value, best advice, and best selection contact a professional window treatment company here in Wilmington, NC for a Free-in-Home consultation. Be prepared, summer will soon be here!

Torgies (KP)

Austrian, Balloon, London, Shades Bright Ideas For Your Home, Wilmington, NC

torgie — Tue, 02 Aug 2011 01:55:23 +0000

The best looks start with bright ideas. From sunny kitchens to whole houses one bright idea is to restyle the window treatments in your Wilmington, NC home.

One smart and affordable window treatment is the versatile roman shade. Roman shades make a great choice because they are available in a variety of color, fabric, and design, adapting to any decor. Levelor offers roman shades in two styles, Flat and Hobbled. A Hobbled roman shade is one that has permanent pleats and is a more traditional style. A Flat roman shade is often chosen when looking for a clean modern design.

Other fabric shades that can quickly restyle your home are the Austrian, Balloon, and London shades. The Austrian shade brings to mind the opulent style of a Viennese theater. When this shade is raised it draws up into deep scallops and when it is lowered it mimics drapery. The lower edge is usually adorned with trim like tassels, beads and fringe. For a more dramatic look use lighter weight fabrics such as sheer, silk ,or lace to compliment this style shade. Austrian shades are also referred to as a Victorian style shade, formal and traditional.

Similar to the Austrian shade but having a softer more billowing appearance is the Balloon shade. Balloon shades are so called because as they are gathered they form a scalloped edge on the bottom that “balloons” out. These shades can be purchased in at least three different styles, gathered, smocked, and pleated. Balloon shades offer Old World styling that meet today’s current trends. Choice of fabric, color, and pattern, for these shades can certainly set the mood in any room. Silk or velvet fabric used in a bedroom or living room creates drama and elegance.

London shades are designed to lie flat with bottom folds on each side. These are shades with small inverted pleats along the upper edge of the shade with wide swags across the width and fan shaped wings on the outer edges. This is a very unique and elegant shade that once installed should be left stationary to enhance this particular style.

These fabric shades are bright ideas that will add a one of a kind style to any home. Contact a window treatment company here in Wilmington, NC for a Free-In -Home consultation to experience all the possibilities.

Torgies (KP)

Wilmington, NC

Are Your Windows Ready For Summer? Wilmington, NC

torgie — Mon, 27 Jun 2011 23:34:17 +0000

Are your windows ready for summer? If your family is interested in energy conservation, focusing on the type of window treatments in your home is important. Up to 50% of a home’s heating and cooling energy exits through windows. Heat always flows from warm areas to cooler areas. Summer heat from roofs and walls travel from outside to inside your home. While it is not possible to stop this completely you can slow the rate by using materials that can restrict a percentage of the heat flow. R-Value is the measure of insulation’s ability to resist heat traveling through it and relates to the ability of a material to reflect light and heat out of the home. The higher the R-Value the better the thermal performance of the insulation. Window treatments with a higher R-Value can reduce heat loss up to 50% and save you money.

Hunter Douglas,”makes products with a range of R-Values and Solar Heat Gain Coefficient (SHGC) ratings so you can meet both your design and energy efficient needs.” For example, a bare double glazed window has up to a 3.5 R-Value. Choosing the Hunter Douglas Duette Architella, the 1 1/4″ honeycomb shade with Panache opaque fabric brings the R-Value up to 7.86, which can reduce heat loss significantly. According to Smart Energy Living, “hardwood shutters and wood blinds have R-Values between 2.77 and 3.17. Some new style hybrid shutters have an R-Value of 6.01. Vertical, aluminum blinds and gliding panels have R-Values ranging from 3.87 to 3.94. Make sure you ask for the R-Value of the product itself without the R-Value of the window included to get an accurate reading of the product’s true insulation ability.

Since what we choose to purchase for window treatments can have a large impact on the energy efficiency in the home, there are a few good questions to ask yourself when making a choice:

1. Will this product help to make my home more energy efficient, saving me money?

2. Will this product help to protect other valuable items in my home?

To find answers to these questions and others, contact a window treatment specialist here in Wilmington, NC for a Free-In -Home Consultation. Hurry, get your windows ready for summer!

Torgie (KP)

Wilmington, NC

Be Safe, Be Prepared, Hurricane Shutters, Wilmington, NC

torgie — Tue, 14 Jun 2011 03:30:53 +0000

Hurricane season is from June to November. Hurricanes, tropical storms, and extreme weather inflict much damage to private and public property each year. North Carolina and three other southern states lead the nation in number of billion dollar weather related disasters. As a result, people here in Wilmington, NC have concern for the welfare of their homes and families. Doug Hoell, Director of Emergency Management states,”We do not know when the next big storm will come, but we do know it will come. Are you Ready? Be Safe and Be Prepared.”

Protecting our homes and families by installing hurricane or storm shutters is one very important way to be prepared. These type of shutters are available in several different styles and designs. Colonial hurricane shutters are a Southern standard for many homes. These are two pieced louvered shutters that attach to the wall beside each window folding together to protect the window. Colonial hurricane shutters are easy to use, decorative, adding curb appeal to your home. Roll-Up and Roll-down custom built hurricane shutters are some of the most expensive and of high quality. They attach above the window and can be lowered manually by a hand crank or automatically by push button. Another added feature, they roll-up and store in an enclosed box when not in use.

Atlantic Premium Shutter Company offers several storm shutter designs. Bahama Storm System is a design based on shutters from the Caribbean. A one-piece louvered shutter attaches directly above the window and is held open to provide shade. They are easy to use and storm ready when lowered and secured with a camel-back locking system. They are described by Atlantic Shutters as having, “elegant, light appeal to deliver exteriors with a dramatic flair.” The Classic Collection hurricane shutter by Atlantic is available in Raised Panel, Faux Louver, Board and Batten designs. Strong aluminum storm bars are used to secure the shutters closed during severe weather. Each shutter is available in some 40 different colors and also custom colors.

Storm ready shutters are economical, decorative and provide year round protection. Hurricanes strike North Carolina on the average every three years. “It only takes one,” is the 2009 message from the NOAA. Hurricanes are a part of life, get prepared. Contact a professional window treatment company here in Wilmington,NC for a free in home consultation to get your family and home hurricane prepared.

Torgies (KP)

Wilmington, NC

Dynamic Duo Window Treatments For Your Home, Wilmington, NC

torgie — Wed, 01 Jun 2011 03:07:10 +0000

When we think of items that go together well, what comes to your mind? If you are a ” foodie” it might be steak and potatoes or shrimp and grits. Entertainment buffs might choose superheroes like Batman and Robin or celebrities like Will and Kate. We feel that one with out the other is incomplete. Home fashion can have the same appeal; we want to choose items that compliment each other. When it comes to selecting window treatments for your Wilmington, NC home some may wonder can you mix and match different window treatments for a fashionable look? What are some dynamic duo window treatment options?

A fashionable move every time is using patterned curtains with a solid color shade. The more pronounced the drapery pattern the simpler the shade should be. For example, use a crisp white roman shade with white and green checked drapes. Another great duo is combining woven bamboo shades with sheer floral drapes, adding a layer of texture and character to any room. For a bolder and jazzy statement, pair that bamboo shade with raw silk or velvet curtains. A Levolor roman shade in Classic Mocha with cream-colored sheer drapery panels is a winning combination for a simple yet dramatic effect. Try a custom designed drape using Lafayette Hot Topic Fabrics in eco friendly material. These fabrics are available in 100% Cotton and 100% Repreve Recycled Polyester in colors and patterns such as eco brown, sage, blue and red. Custom drapes made from any of these fabrics combined with sheer drapes or shades provide privacy, softness, and make for a dynamic duo.

A bonus for items that go well together is they make for a unique one of a kind combination. With the endless combinations of color, product, and style, it is important to select a professional window treatment company here in Wilmington, NC. They offer a free in home consultation to help design your own dynamic duo window covering combination.

Torgie (KP)

Wilmington, NC

Replace or Repair Vertical Blinds, Wilmington, NC

torgie — Tue, 17 May 2011 01:58:00 +0000

The home decor question: Can vertical blind vanes be repaired or does the entire blind need to be replaced? The home decor solution: Both options are available depending on the situation. However, before making a decision there are a few factors to consider for your Wilmington, NC home.

Vertical blinds became a very popular window treatment in the 70’s and maintain that popularity today. Vertical blinds are available in different types of material such as PVC, vinyl, fabric, and wood. The type of material used and the thickness of the vanes can determine the durability of the blind. One common problem with vertical blinds is that they can break where they attach to the carrier on the head rail. Pets that like to chew can also damage some blinds and some vanes can be damaged by excessive use.

When making a decision to replace or repair the blind, it is good to keep in mind how old are the vertical blinds? This is important because some studies show that window treatments usually stay a minimum of 5 to 7 years or longer. If the verticals are older than average, it may be time to update your window treatment.

Something else to consider, does the manufacture still provide the product? This can be challenging. However, there are a few companies that specialize in this area. One bit of advice regarding vertical blinds is to order a few extra vanes when placing the original order. It will save you time and trouble later. Some companies require a minimum of 10 replacement vanes to be ordered and others will special order what is needed if available. Companies such as Levelor provide replacement vanes directly through their customer service or can be ordered through a retailer that sells Levelor vertical blinds.

Another important consideration is the location of the vertical blind in the home. Heavy traffic areas such as patio doors can contribute to the damage of vertical blinds with the constant opening, closing, or frequent use of the area. Some homeowners have replaced the vertical blinds on these windows with panel track blinds or drapes, which is a helpful alternative.

The home decor solution is find out what solution best fits your needs regarding vertical blinds. It is best to contact a window treatment company here in Wilmington, NC for a free in home consultation to find what options are available.

Torgies (KP)

Wilmington, NC

Window Coverings for the Modern Home, Wilmington, NC

torgie — Tue, 26 Apr 2011 03:45:55 +0000

An interesting quote by Ben Stein says, “The first step to getting the things you want out of life is this: Decide what you want.” This statement agrees with the thought of interior designer Melissa Gilbert in speaking about choosing a modern window treatment for the modern home. She points out that “homeowners need to deliberate the purpose of window treatments before deciding on a style, privacy, light control, acoustical benefits, and installation, these are all the issues that should be accounted for.” She also mentions, “The key is simple, tailored, and functional.”

Woven wood window treatments are considered a good choice for the modern home. They are made of environmentally responsible fabrics and available in a variety of styles. Woven wood blinds are made of natural materials such as bamboo, reeds, and exotic grasses. Hunter Douglas offers “Provenance” woven wood blinds with a standard cord lock system, available in 77 different material and color combinations. These blinds can be upgraded with an optional liner that protects your home and helps reduce energy expenses in your home.

Many modern homes today are designed with larger windows and large “great rooms” for comfortable family living. One sleek modern alternative to vertical blinds for these larger windows and patio doors are sliding panel tracks. Panel tracks can also be used as a room divider that adds fun and function to your home. Levolor has the latest in fabrics and textures for sliding panel tracks, such as Soho textured fabrics in Vanilla, Java, and Mocha. These panel tracks from Levolor can also be designed using a sheer material in Lemon Drop, Golden Rod, and Fatigue, for a subtle and dramatic effect.

Draperies in fabrics such as linen and cotton duck with colorful geometric designs are a modern trend in window fashion for the enviromentally conscious. Tailored Pleat, Grommet, and Goblet drades are styles that are affordable and popular for the modern home making a sleek, simple , and bold statement.

To help you decide which modern window treatment is right for your home, contact a window treatment company here in Wilmington, NC for a free in home consultation.

Torgies (KP)

Wilmington, NC

Dream Window Coverings, Wilmington, NC

torgie — Thu, 14 Apr 2011 03:41:37 +0000

If money were no object, what type of window covering would you select for your Wilmington, NC home? It is exciting to dream about the possibilities. Window treatments that fall into this category are made with material of high quality, skilled craftsmanship, and dollar for dollar can add to the over all value of your home.

When choosing a window covering that fits the above description, the first choice for many would be plantation shutters. Shutters have been described by some as fine furniture for your home. Custom designed shutters made of hardwoods such as cherry, cedar, and bass are some of the finest window coverings for your money. Hunter Douglas offers “Heritance” hardwood shutters that can be custom finished with 100 different “Integra” paint and stain finishes. Hunter Douglas states, “Heritance hardwood shutters have a vast selection of frame choices, specialty shapes, configuration options and louver sizes giving you one of the largest selections in the industry.” Shutters have proven to be a great investment, highly valued by home-buyers as well as homeowners.

Another window treatment considered by some as one of the best window treatments for your money is hardwood venetian blinds. “Hardwood Collection” by Levolor with 2 1/2 inch slats is an impressive choice. These blinds can be custom ordered in a wide variety of paints and stains. Venetian wood blinds can make any room warm and inviting. Never out of style they fit any decor with their natural beauty and classic style.

The perfect addition to any dream window treatment is a motorized or remote blind control system. This type of system can be used with a battery powered wireless remote control or switch mounted on a wall. With the touch of a button you have the freedom to open, close, raise, and lower the window coverings. Ease and convenience of use make this blind control system a dreamy choice.

In today’s world money is an object, so to get the best quality for your money contact a window treatment professional here in Wilmington, NC to find the best in affordable quality window treatments.

Torgies (KP)

Wilmington, NC