Torgie’s Point of View

     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

     Herbert Hoover the 31st President of the United States once said, ” Children are our most valuable resource.”  This statement made many years ago continues to resonate with the majority of people today. The health of children is important and requires more than just the proper food, exercise, and enough sleep. It also requires staying safe and secure.

    Recently in the news there have been reports concerning the voluntary recall of nearly 11 million roman shades and roll up blinds that were sold by Lowe’s and other retail stores between the years of 1999 and June of 2010. This recall was prompted by the near strangulation of two children , one in November 2009, and the other in July 2010. Theresa Harris, a 17 year licensed owner and operator of  lil’ Bears Day Care Facility commented regarding this situation, “Window treatments are a beautiful way to bring  warmth and character to a room. They offer protection for the children keeping the heat in and the cold out. However, whatever window treatment you choose, number one, first and foremost if it has a cord or other hazardous feature it must be removed or safely secured out of children’s reach. Safety is needed in all areas of life, especially with our children.”

     The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission recomends prepare your environment for safety, especially when children and infants are in the home. This would include making sure your current blinds meet up to date safety standards and comply with CPSC provisional standards and other consumer protection laws. With regard to the Lowe’s recall, the CPSC said “Consumers should stop using these types of window treatment products immediately unless otherwise instructed.” The Window Covering Safety Commission recommends installing cordless window treatments for home where children, infants, and pets are. They also suggest replacing or repairing window blinds sold before 2001 because the outer cord presents strangulation hazards.

     An anonymous quote states, ” Safety is as simple as ABC-Always Be Careful. The safety of children is first and foremost. After all they are our most “valuable resource.” To get started, contact a window treatment professional here in Wilmington, NC for complete information on making your home a safe place to live.

Torgies         (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

     A quote by an Unknown Author states,” America’s number one energy crisis is Monday morning.” While many of us can identify with this statement, we are aware there is a much more serious energy crisis that we all face. As a result, many companies have seen the wisdom in designing products that help save the environment and provide us with energy saving options for our homes. Here in Wilmington, NC we are interested in energy saving products that are available.

     Window treatments and window coverings  have made great improvements in energy saving designs. One of the most effective and affordable ways to reduce solar heat through windows is to use window tint or film installed by professionals. Window tint has been shown to reduce up to 99% harmful UV rays. The advantages of using window tint are reduced energy bills, reduced fading of rugs and furnishings, reduced glare, and provide increase in safety. Reduced glare is important in rooms such as the office, den, or family room where television and computers are used. Window tint adds to the safety of your home as it can act as a deterrent to home invasion through the window. In a severe storm window tint can be a protection if the window shatters, holding it together providing safety for your family. Various types of window tints are also recommended by the Skin Cancer Institute as a protection against indoor exposure to UV rays that are harmful.

     Johnson Window Films is one company that offers Design Plus Solar Films and Safe Plus safety and security window films that are scratch resistant, easy to care for and last for many years.  Vista Window Energy Saving Film is also a product that gives maximum protection yet allows for a neutral look out the window from the inside. This window tint by Vista is recommended by the Society of Interior Designers because it adds to the beauty of your home.

     Every little bit helps. That is certainly true when we talk about saving the environment and saving money by saving energy. Therefore, it is important to contact a window treatment specialist in the Wilmington, NC area for a free in home consultation to view the many window tint ,window film options for your home.

Torgie          (KP)

Wilmington, NC

A quote some attribute to Oscar Wilde on his deathbed, “Either thoes drapes go, or I do”.  Perhaps we feel the same way about our window treatments, it is time for a change. A current trend in window coverings is the modern updated look of pinch pleat drapes. Pinch pleat drapes are a great fashion choice for your Wilmington, NC home.

Pinch pleat drapes are timeless. This style of drape has been a part of window treatment history for many years. Today’s pinch pleat drape has even more variety of choices than times past, depending on what color, fabric, and extra options you choose. Some very modern color options include, spice, cranberry, toast, and sand. Fabrics that make a fashion statement are cotton, linen, duck cloth, silk, suede, and flannel. Some extra options to consider are blackout or thermal lining for privacy and energy savings. Adding other extras such as tiebacks, valances, and decorative rods truly make the drapes one of a kind.

One company that offers over 300 hand selected fabrics in a variety of textures is Elite’s Elegance Collection. This collection offers eight different pleat styles, such as French Pleat, Hidden Tab, and Athena Soft Fold. To completely customize your drapery design they offer designer enhancements like banding, tiebacks, skirting, and decorative throw pillows. The French Pleat drape is designed with a triple pinch pleat at the top and is a very popular choice. Depending on the fabric and hardware choice, this style drape can easily be used in a formal, contemporary, casual, or country decor.

It’s time for a change and window treatments like the pinch pleat drape will give your home a fresh look that is affordable and uniquely yours. With  the variety of style, color, and fabric available contact a drapery professional in Wilmington, NC for a Free in Home estimate.  They can help you select just the right soft window treatment for your home.

Torgie     (KP)

Wilmington, NC

     In China it is the symbol of  Longevity. In India it is the symbol of Friendship. Around the world it is used in a large variety of ways. This versatile, eco-friendly, affordable, renewable resource is Bamboo. One of the most popular uses for bamboo is in home decor, from floors, textiles, furniture to window coverings. Bamboo shades are an appealing choice for many homes and offices here in Wilmington, NC.

     Bamboo has a unique grain and pattern that is enhanced through several types of treatments. The variations in color and texture make it ideal to use in window shades. Bamboo shades also known as Woven Wood shades, and Matchstick shades, offer a natural look that fits well with any decor. Bamboo shades basically are available in two styles, flat roll-up shade with a cord (or cordless for safety), and shades made with a roman fold or hobbled style. These shades can be designed with a blackout liner or privacy liner for thoes windows that need added protection or privacy. One popular option is natural bamboo shades with edge banding in an accent color to coordinate with the color scheme of the room.

     Manh Truc is a woven shade collection offered by Lafayette. This collection is unique, using natural materials such as bamboo, wood reeds, and grasses. These shades have an optional top down/bottom up lifting system that lets you adjust the shade for privacy and light exposure. Provenance  a Woven Wood Collection by Hunter Douglas also uses bamboo and natural grasses in a variety of styles and lengths. These shades are carefully woven to let just the right amount of light in to create a cozy and comfortable room.

     The ancient Egyptians made shades by stringing bamboo sticks together thousands of years ago.Chinese homes for centuries have seen the value of using bamboo in window covering manufacturing. Today we still see the value of using these versatile and affordable window shades. Contact a window treatment professional here in Wilmington, NC for a free in home consultation.

Torgie         (KP)

Wilmington, NC

The choice to use Plantation Shutters in your Wilmington, NC  home is good for several reasons. Plantation Shutters add value, style, and allow the outdoors in while providing privacy and protection. This is especially true when Bypass Shutters are used to cover large openings such as sliding doors, French doors, or large windows.

Bypass Plantation Shutters can be mounted on sliding patio doors, French doors, or large windows of almost any shape and size. The name has reference to the track system the shutters are mounted on. A bypass track system allows the shutter panels to slide past each other on top tracks, left and or right to open and close easily. This is particularly helpful when the door is in use or on a large window to see out.

Bypass Shutters are constructed from numerous types of wood and from a variety of synthetic materials. A popular choice is Hunter Douglas Palm Beach polysatin vinyl Plantation Shutters. These shutters are durable, guaranteed not to warp, chip, or fade, regardless of the weather. Lafatette Woodland Harvest is a great choice if you prefer wood type shutters. They are available in five louver widths and have a variety of shapes for every window and door. Woodland Harvest shutters offer 50 standard colors, stains, and custom color matching, making your choice truly one of a kind.

There are several types of operating systems to choose from, such as traditional tilt front, rear tilts, no tilt rod (Truview), or an up and down closure. Manufactures also offer a gear driven one touch control system that will open and close shutters in unison. Another factor to consider is the size of the louvers that will best fit your needs and decor. Keep in mind smaller louvers (2 1/2″) may be used for traditional decor and larger louvers (4 1/2″) show well with contemporary styles.

Bypass Shutters are affordable, practical, energy efficent, add beauty and value, truly making your house a home. What more is there to say? With so many choices, it is best to contact a window treatment specialist for a free in home consultation here in Wilmington, NC. They can help you decide what is best for your home.

Torgie     (KP)

Wilmington, NC

     One of the current trends in window fashion is the grommet drape for home or office. This style of drape is a popular choice because it is versatile, affordable and though they have a contemporary feel, can be incorporated into nearly any decor. These drapes will certainly enhance the beauty and function of your Wilmington, NC home and office.

     According to Webster’s New World Dictionary, grommet: an eyelet, as of metal, plastic, protecting an opening in cloth, leathers, etc. Grommets are available in different colors, and metals, such as brass, brushed silver, and nickel, to achieve just the right design. Grommet drapes are drapes made with a variety of un-pleated fabrics and have stylish circular grommets at the top that slip through a stationary rod hung across a window. This style of drape is easy to manually open and close, controlling the amount of light in the room.

     Grommet drapes can be purchased in basically three styles, lined, unlined, and sheer in nearly any material. For the energy conscience , grommet drapes can be lined with acrylic suede, blackout material, or other fabrics that add privacy and insulation, saving on energy bills. Sheer fabrics are a great choice where more light or air is desired, such as a kitchen or child’s room. Heavier fabrics such as silk, velvet, and chenille, add drama and sophistication to any living room or master bedroom. Bamboo, cottons, and canvas fabric grommet drapes have great appeal for those looking for a more natural decor. Grommet drapes in twill, canvas, and woven polyester used in the patio give privacy, protection, and comfort when outdoors.

     Grommet style drapes are designed from the simple to the elegant, depending on the fabric, rod, and finials you choose. The beauty of this drape comes from the natural way the fabric falls from the grommets and rod, which results in soft rounded pleats. Grommet drapes are a fashion trend that will complete any room decor in your home, office, and outdoor living space. With all the grommet drape choices available, talk with a professional window treatment company here in Wilmington, NC for a free in home consultation. Grommet drapes are a popular trend here to stay.

Torgie     (KP)

Wilmington, NC