Torgie’s Point of View

     Designers around the world have long admired textures for the way they add design, depth, and character, to a home. There are virtually endless combinations of fabric, texture, and color to choose from when thinking about home fashion. Window treatments are no exception. With the variety of shades, blinds, drapes, and shutters to choose from, any decor can be yours. A somewhat recent addition to window treatments is the availability and affordability of faux iron inserts for shutters and specialty windows such as arches, transoms, and sidelights. Any room of the house is dressed up with the added texture and design of Tableaux Faux Wrought Iron.

     Tableaux Faux Wrought Iron products are constructed out of 100% post industrial recycled wood fiber with formaldehyde free resin, making this product affordable and Eco-Friendly. Faux iron is lightweight, about 10% the weight of conventional wrought iron and therefore has unlimited design options. It can be formed into any shape, square, rectangle, circular, or custom designed, with ornate, geometric, or floral patterns. There are two finishes to choose from, faux and organic which is based on a natural chemical process. Some traditional color options are, Antique, Gold, and Bronze Brass. Other colors to choose from include Amazon Emerald, Shanghai Sunrise, and Pacific Pearl, to list just a few. For decorative purposes it comes double-sided when both sides of the design are visible such as in a front door entry way or single-sided when only one side is visible such as used for high transom or arch windows.

     Faux iron inserts add interest and dimension to the home. They complete the look for any style shutter, changing them from simple to elegant. The addition of a valance or cornice with the faux iron insert, creates beauty and variety. For a more personalised effect, it is possible to incorporate logos, monograms, or crests, into custom designed faux iron inserts.

     Faux iron inserts are not just limited to window treatments. They can be used in a variety of ways, on doors, ceilings, skylights, both inside and outside the home. To get a complete look at what can be done with faux iron inserts contact a window treatment company here in Wilmington, NC for a free in home consultation.

Torgies     (KP)

Wilmington, NC

     It’s that time of year again when winter melts away and the sun begins to warm the earth with spring. Here in Wilmington, NC we look forward to the warmer days and the blooming of the Crocus, Daffodil, and the Dogwood. It is also the time of year to freshen our homes for a new season.

     This is a good time of year to clean fabric blinds because during winter when the family is in the house, more heat, dust, and dirt accumulate. Cleaning fabric blinds and shades can be simple if you have the equipment you need before you start. The first thing to do is lightly vacuum the blinds with a brush attachment. If this attachment is not available, simply use a soft cloth to gently wipe down the blinds to remove the dust. Next use a sponge, soak in lukewarm water with a small amount of mild laundry soap. Ring most of the water from the sponge and wipe the area down gently, careful not to rub the material too hard. Use a soft towel just to blot any moisture from the blinds and let air dry in the open.

     Most cellular pleated shades need little care. Hunter Douglas Duette Shades have an anti-static fabric and require only a light brush with a vacuum cleaner attachment. If they need a little more care just use a damp cloth to wipe them down.

     Here are some good reminders which will help make cleaning  fabric blinds safe and easy. It is recommended that fabric window treatments be cleaned every 2 to 3 months to keep them looking new and lasting longer. Another tip, remember to check how the blinds react to water by checking a small inconspicuous area before cleaning the entire blind or removing a particular stain. Water stains on blinds can be tricky so it is best to ask a window treatment company for suggestions before you attempt to clean the blind. Finally, if you are not sure about cleaning the window treatment, contact the place where you bought the blinds or a local window treatment company here in Wilmington, NC for help and suggestions.

Torgies    (KP)

Wilmington, NC

     Nearly all of us are concerned about the rising cost of living. Gas prices are going to an all time high and getting higher. Looking for ways to save money is on the minds of many living here in Wilmington, NC. In big and small ways saving money is a priority.

     Some are saving money and energy by using window coverings. This is important because windows are responsible for up to 50% of heat loss during winter. Draperies have been used in homes to help prevent this loss. However, there are a few things to keep in mind when using this type of window covering.

     Conventional drapes reduce heat loss generally by only 10%, letting most of the energy escape because of gaps between the window and the drape. One way to be energy-smart is to convert your existing drapes by making sure they fit tightly against the outside perimiter of the window which will prevent air circulation through the cold glass and heat loss is less. Also, make sure the drapes hang all the way to the floor. Making these adjustments to your drapes can cut heat loss up to 25%, keeping the home warm and cozy.

     Another energy-smart choice is to use thermal or insulated drapes. Thermal drapes are especially effective in rooms with large windows or in rooms that need to stay warmer such as the bedroom or the nursery. Thermal lined drapes are regular curtains with a foam backing made of a cotton polyester blend. The thermal backing makes them heavier so be sure to hang them with durable hardware. These insulated drapes help keep inside temperature more consistent and comfortable so that the thermostat can be lowered which means lower energy bills. Kathy Ireland Home by Alta offers a wide choice of thermal lined and insulated drapes in many styles, color, and sizes.

     Yes, draperies do keep the cold out, especially when using thermal lined or insulated drapes. These drapes are affordable and are known to last 10 to 15 years longer than unlined drapes. Thermal drapes also offer privacy and help with sound reduction. These window treatments can certainly add beauty, balance, and life to any room. To get acquainted with all the varieties available contact a window treatment professional here in Wilmington, NC for a free consultation.

Torgie    (KP)

Wilmington, NC

     The best of both worlds is a phrase to mean a situation where one can enjoy two different opportunities, or to get the best of both choices. Some living here in Wilmington, NC may feel they have the best of both worlds, the Atlantic Ocean and the tranquil waters of the Intracoastal Waterway. This phrase can also be used to describe a very popular window covering, the Top Down Bottom Up window shade.

     Top down bottom up window shades has a unique and versatile feature. They are designed so you can adjust the top independently from the bottom, controlling light and privacy offering the best of both worlds. This feature allows for variations creating different ambiance by lowering the shades from the top, bottom, or both. Top down bottom up shades provide privacy at eye level while allowing daylight to filter through either from the top or bottom of the window. This feature is popular because it can be used with many different types of shades such as roman, pleated, woven wood , or honeycomb shades.

     Hunter Douglas refers to top down bottom up shades as “the ultimate in versatility.” Hunter Douglas offers “Brilliance” pleated shades with this feature in 160 material and color combinations. Their “Silhouette” window shades offer an added feature called “TiltAnywhere” which allows you to tilt the vanes in any position. Levolor offers “Accordia” a cellular shade in a contemporary design with top down bottom up features for maximum light and privacy control. Levolor also has a roman shade that features two different styles, flat and hobbled. Both styles can be upgraded with the cordless top down bottom up feature in popular colors such as Seaside, Suede Mink, and Cream.

      Top down bottom up shades offer the best of both worlds. They provide your home with both privacy and just the right amount of light. The variations of style, design, color, and material are seemingly endless. To find the right top down bottom up shades for you home contact a professional window treatment company here in Wilmington, NC for a free in home consultation.

Torgie     (KP)

Wilmington, NC

     We live in a gadget prone world, always looking for items to make life easier or more convenient. We have remote control TVs, Garage Doors, Toys, and even some vehicles can be started with the push of a button. One convenience some may have overlooked is the availability of motorized remote control window treatments. Because of the advancement in technology, motorized window treatments are now more affordable, fashionable, and a smart addition to your Wilmington, NC home.

     Nearly any type of window covering can be motorized. When talking about motorization, there are various options such as remote control, switches, timers, and sensors. There are various types of motorization to use with each type of window treatment and should be designed to fit your individual needs. Motorized remote control window coverings can also be fully integrated into existing or newly installed home automation systems.

     Hunter Douglas uses The Power Rise 2.0 with Platinum Technology battery powered system that is easy to install and can be used with “Allustra Duette” honeycomb shades, “Designer Roller Shades,” and “Applause” honeycomb shades. Power Tilt with Platinum Technology is designed to be used with Hunter Douglas “Alustra Woods“and “Country Woods Geniune Woods” blinds. Lafayette also uses a motorized battery powered remote to raise and lower your window treatments easily. Lafayette offers this system with “Woodland Harvest” wood shutters and “Genesis III”roman shades. Motorized remote control devices are simple to maintain, just replace the battery every 2 to 3 years depending on use.

     There are many benefits in using motorized remote control window treatments; ease and convenience are number one. They are a great choice for hard to reach windows such as those behind a bathtub, cathedral windows, or windows with a unique shape or location. Remote control window coverings offer safety in homes where there are small children since there are no cords to be concerned with. They are also very helpful in homes where elderly or physically limited persons reside. Motorized window treatments can contribute to energy efficiency in your home, saving you money.

     Motorized remote control window treatments are no longer a luxury. They are affordable, fashionable, and necessary for the modern home. Contact a window treatment professional here in Wilmington, NC for a free in home consultation to view all the motorized window treatment options.

Torgie    (KP)

Wilmington, NC

     From BBC WWII Wartime Homes comes this bit of history regarding blackout curtains and European homes in the 1940’s.”Every window had blackout curtains drawn at night. Blackout curtains stopped light from rooms showing from outside. The idea was to stop lights from towns guiding enemy plans to drop bombs.”  These blackout curtains were a valuable and necessary item during the war time years. In today’s modern world, blackout and  room darkening window treatments are still a valuable and necessary choice for several reasons. The many modern designs and varieties of these window treatments  make them a practical, affordable, and beautiful addition to your Wilmington, NC home.

     Blackout blinds, shades, and curtains by definition of the name can block out nearly 100% of incoming light. Room darkening window treatments depending on the material used can absorbed 50-70% of incoming light. Both options are useful depending on what you need for your home. If you live in a sound or light polluted environment these are great options, helping to keep noise and bright light from entering the room. These window coverings are great for nurseries, guest rooms, home offices, bedrooms and other light sensitive areas of your home. Many who are on work schedules that require restful sleep during the day hours as well as those who have health situations and young children find room darkening shades, blinds, or curtains a valuable item. Room darkening and blackout window treatments not only provide peace and quite, but can also protect valuable furnishings and save energy which saves money.

     There is a variety of color, design, and texture to choose from when selecting room darkening or blackout window treatments. Levolor window fashions offers Accordia, a single cell room darkening honeycomb cell shades. They are described as having a ” soft, classic look with cellular construction offering efficiency and value.”Levolor also offers Amalfi room darkening vertical blinds that have a unique Backstacker design, drawing the blind from the back of the vane stack as opposed to the front which is a convenient feature. Hunter Douglas offers Duette Architella honeycomb shades in 88 different fabric and color combinations in room darkening materials, from sheer to opaque. These honeycomb shades according to Hunter Douglas are viewed as ” the industry’s highest level of energy efficency, reduce energy loss up to 50%”, depending on the room darkening fabric used.

     Room darkening and blackout window coverings are a great choice for many reasons. Contact a window treatment specialist here in Wilmington, NC for a free in home consultation to help you decide how best to use these window treatments in your home.

Torgie      (KP)

Wilmington, NC

     The home decor challenge: What are the most durable window coverings for your home here in Wilmington, NC ? The home decor solution: Plantation shutters, drapes made with natural fibers, and faux wood blinds are some options that meet this challenge.

     When choosing window treatments for your home that are both durable and fashionable, the first choice would be plantation shutters. Plantation shutters are the most durable window coverings available. Plantation shutters can be made from solid wood, PVC, or a blend of hard woods. Shutters are ideal for high traffic areas such as the kitchen and bath where they stand up well to moisture, extra heat, smoke, and smells. Plantation shutters are popular because of their durability, versatility, and classic look. They are easy to maintain, offer privacy and protection from the natural elements. The cost may be slightly higher than other durable window coverings, but shutters will add value to your home and last nearly as long as your home does.

     Curtains and drapes made of natural fibers are a great choice when looking for durable window coverings. Cotton, Duck Cotton or Canvas  is a favorite fabric because natural fibers are generally stronger, washable and friendly to the environment. When choosing fabrics for your drapes and curtains , there are several factors to consider such as temperature differences, direct sunlight, and humidity. Natural fiber fabrics have a range of colors and patterns to choose from that compliment any style of home fashion.

     A third option for durable window coverings are faux wood blinds. These window coverings offer a variety in color, design, and size for every decor. Faux wood blinds are made of vinyl or a combination of vinyl hardwood material. Faux wood blinds are affordable yet do not compromise in quality. These blinds do not bend or fade, are easy to clean and will last until it is time to change your decor.

     To select the right durable window coverings  that will meet the needs of your lifestyle, contact a window treatment specialist here in Wilmington, NC to make a free in home appointment.

Torgie      (KP)

Wilmington, NC

     Entering into the year 2011, we are aware that many of the problems of the old year are still here. This reality has lead some in Wilmington, NC to the conclusion there is more happiness in the simpler things of life. Family, friends, and our homes take on new meaning.

     An affordable and practical way to give our lives and our homes a fresh new look for the new year is to change or update the window treatments we currently have. As simple as this may sound, it works. Window treatments can easily change the decor, generate the right light and set the mood for any room. Popular trends in color and design for window coverings in 2011 can make this possible.

     Neutral colors have always been popular because of their versatile use. In 2011 the trend is toward dark neutrals such as gray, purple, and brown. Blue is the new red in window treatments. Look for variations of the color blue in teal, aquamarine, and turquoise which adds a splash of color and appeal.

     Metallic colors  have always been a popular choice in home design and this year is no exception. Designers creating a modern or romantic decor are using gold, silver, and bronze in fabric and window treatment hardware. Hunter Douglas Modern Precious Metals aluminum blinds offer colors such as Brushed Aluminum and Sheer Midnight.

     Contrast in color and pattern is a current trend. Hunter Douglas offers the Alustra Modern Roller Shade in fresh colors as  Mint Julep, Fossil, Gold Essence, and Copper Sunset. Add Chelsea metallic hardware and the look can be clean and simple to the elegant and dramatic. Levolor roman shades offer beautiful patterns and unique textures as Bodrum Earth, Green Leaf, Salsa, and such colors as Classic Basil, Spice, and Dijon. Try a  Levolor roman shade in Classic Chili Spice hung against a taupe painted wall, combined with a cocoa brown satin drape to make a  bold statement. This is just one of the many combinations of color and texture that is popular this year.

     To see all the latest in window treatments for 2011 and to get started on getting a fresh new look for your home, contact a professional window treatment company here in Wilmington, NC for a free in home consultation.

Torgie    (KP)

Wilmington, NC

     With the recent voluntary recall of roller shades and blinds from several retail stores, there has been a renewed interest regarding the importance of using cordless window treatments around children, pets, and other individuals at risk. The issue of safe window treatments is not new according to News from CPSC (Consumer Product Safety Commission). ” Over the last 15 years CPSC has been investigating window covering hazards and working with the WCSC (Window Covering Safety Commission) to ensure safety of windows.”  As a result of this on going investigation, nearly every type of window covering can be purchased with cordless upgrades. 

     Window treatments such as honeycomb shades or roller shades can be purchased with a cordless lift system which can easily lift the shade from the bottom rail. Levelor cordless features are available on their Accordia Celluar Shades which offer more than 200 fabric choices for any home decor. Accordia Cellular Shades also include Levelor’s “Energy Shield” technology that can save you energy and money. Hunter Douglas offers Vignette Tiered Modern Roman Shades with “Lite Rise” cordless operation. “Lite Rise” cordless operation is also available on Hunter Douglas Country Wood Blinds and Duette Honeycomb Shades. Another cordless system is the spring assist clutch system that is available on Hunter Douglas Provenance Woven Wood Shades. One cordless option that is easy and convenient to use is a battery operated remote control motorization system. This cordless system allows freedom to open, close, raise, and lower the window shades with a touch of a button.

     Accidents hurt safety doesn’t. To be safe and sound it is good to consider replacing or improving your present window treatments to prevent serious accidents in the home. To get acquainted with all the various cordless features for window coverings, contact a professional window treatment company here in Wilmington, NC for a Free in Home consultation.

Torgie     (KP)

Wilmington, NC

     Framing the view or what you choose to use for window treatments is important because it can influence the look of the entire room or home. Many people here in Wilmington, NC have recognized the practical and affordable options that shutters can provide. Shutters are a popular choice because they are aesthetically appealing and add value to your home.

     Shutters are available in varying louver sizes,  from 1 1/2 inches to the larger plantation shutters which are available in sizes from 3 1/2 inch to 5 inch and even somewhat larger. Shutters that have larger louvers are desirable because they provide maximum light control along with a more unobstructed view. Home designers find them appealing because they can be used for nearly any type of decor and provide the perfect solution for larger or unique shaped windows. Larger louvers also help make a room feel less busy, which is what many want to achieve especially in the living room or master bedroom.

     Shutters have been described as fine furniture for your home. Considering the many styles, sizes and options  avaiable this is a true statement. Shutters can be purchased standard size or made to order with custom paints and stains to enhance any room decor. Shutters in an off white, or soft white with large louvers is a popular trend because the size and color help the shutters to blend into the over all look of the room. To create an elegant and rich look, make sure the wood stain you choose for your wood shutter does not clash with other wood furnishing in the room. Custom painted shutters in greens, purples, blues, and pinks are popular and add a cheerful look to a child’s bedroom or a play room.

     To experience the variety of shutter options with large louvers, it is important to contact a shutter specialist here in Wilmington, NC for a free in home design consultation.

Torgie        (KP)

Wilmington, NC