The Interior Designer’s Handbook: Making Your Home Private

Window covers play a vital role in protecting your privacy. After all, your home is your special place, and neighbors should not be able to see inside. Fortunately, the right window covers solve this problem well. Not only do they block unwanted views, but they also enhance the overall look of your room. Therefore, choosing the best window covers is essential. To help you decide, this guide reviews the best options available today.

Understanding the Main Types of Window Covers for Privacy

Although there are many choices, each type of window cover works differently. Additionally, you must consider how much light you want in your space. For instance, some window covers block out nearly all light. In contrast, others allow a soft, welcoming glow to filter into the room.

Common Choices for Your Windows

Blinds
These have slats that move. Because you can tilt them, you control the view easily. As a result, you get light without people looking in. Typically:

• Vertical blinds are best for big doors.
• Horizontal ones fit standard windows.

Shades
These are smooth fabric panels. Because they pull up and down, they cover the glass well. For example:

• “Blackout” shades make a room dark.
• “Light-filtering” shades just stop the sun’s glare.

Films
Alternatively, these stick right onto the glass. In fact, they are cheap and easy to use.

• Frosted films blur the view.
• Reflective films act like a mirror during the day.

Shutters
These are built into the window frame. Consequently, they look very expensive and neat. Furthermore, they last a long time. Since you can tilt the louvers, they offer great privacy.

Comparing Your Top Options

Next, let’s look at the best choices. Since every room is different, you must pick what fits best. For instance, a bathroom needs to handle water, but a bedroom needs to stay dark.

Roller Shades
First, these offer total privacy. Moreover, they are very easy to use and look clean.

Faux Wood Blinds
These look like real wood. However, they cost less and handle moisture well.

Cellular Shades
Notably, these help keep your home warm or cool. While they provide privacy, they do not let you see out as easily as blinds do.

Sheer Curtains
But be careful, these only work during the day. Even though they look pretty, you will need a second layer for privacy at night.

Plantation Shutters
Ultimately, these are the best for long-term value. In addition to looking great, they offer the best control over light and views.

Choosing the Right Materials

Naturally, the material you choose matters. For example, thick cloth blocks more view than thin cloth. Similarly, vinyl works best for wet rooms, while wood looks best in a living room.

• Opaque Fabrics: These block all light. Therefore, they are perfect for bedrooms.
• Woven Woods: These add a natural look. However, they have small gaps. Consequently, you should add a liner to the back for full privacy.
• Vinyl: This is perfect for the kitchen. Because it is plastic, it is very easy to wipe clean.
  Understanding Light and Privacy (Opacity)
  “Opacity” just means how much light gets through. Basically, there are three levels to know.
• Sheer: These are very thin. Because you can see through them at night, always pair them with something thicker.
• Light-Filtering: These soften the sun. Nevertheless, people outside might see your shadow at night.
• Blackout: These block all light. As a result, they give you total privacy at any time.

How to Install Inside-Mount Blinds

Fortunately, putting up blinds is simple. However, you must measure carefully so you don’t buy the wrong size.

• Measure the Window: Measure the width at the top, middle, and bottom. Then, use the smallest number.
• Mark the Spots: Hold the brackets up. Next, use a pencil to mark where the screws go.
• Drill Pilot Holes: Drill small holes first. This step stops the wood from cracking.
• Screw in Brackets: Put the brackets up tightly. If you are drilling into drywall, use anchors.
• Snap in the Blind: Most blinds just click into place. Immediately check if they slide up and down correctly.

Professional Tips for Better Window Covers for Privacy

Because experts want the best results, they use these extra steps.

• Layering: Use a thin curtain for the day and a thick one for the night. This way, you get the best of both worlds.
• Top-Down Shades: These are clever. For instance, you can lower the top part of the shade. Thus, you get light from the ceiling, but no one can see in from the street.
• Check at Night: Turn your lights on and go outside. Look at your windows to make sure no one can see in.
• Stay Safe: Since cords can be dangerous for kids, try to buy “cordless” blinds.