Kitchen Remodeling: Working It into Every Budget

Drapes are an excellent way to increase a window's aesthetic appeal and draw the room together. However, shopping for drapes can be an overwhelming process because there are so many different styles and fabrics that are available. In order to make sure that you get the drapes that are perfect for your needs, consider these three factors before you make a final decision:

1. What Do You Want Your Drapes to Do?

Drapes are more than just a decoration. They have a functional purpose as well. For example, drapes that are darker and made of heavier fabric are able to increase the warmth of a room by providing an additional layer of insulation. Dark colored drapes also draw in more of the sun's rays when there is daylight. This heat is transferred to whatever room in which the drapes are installed. 

Another functional purpose of a set of drapes is to make a small window look larger than it actually is. Small windows can easily be overwhelmed by the large, dark drapes that were described above. However, using lighter-colored drapes that are made out of linen is an excellent way to accentuate the window.

For maximum effect, you can purchase drapes that are nearly transparent. The transparent drapes will be able to catch the light that is shining in through the window and reflect it into the room. By doing this, they can make the window look up to twice as large as it actually is.

2. What's Your Budget?

Drapes that are made out of the best fabrics can easily break your budget, and cheaper drapes often look just as good. Before going drape shopping, figure out what you want your drapes to do. Heavier fabrics are almost always going to be more expensive than light fabrics. With this in mind, do some research beforehand and figure out the general price range of drapes in your area. Then, set a budget and stick to it. Search several different stores in order to find the perfect drapes that also don't break your budget.

3. What Hardware Do You Already Have?

If you've had drapes in the past and want to reuse the hanging hardware, make sure that you either take a picture of the hardware or are able to describe it well. Some hardware is not able to work with all of the different types of drapes. If you can describe the hardware, a sales associate will be able to assist you in your search.

For more information, contact a drapery store like Frieda Ross Draperies, Blinds and Fabrics to learn more.