Which Locations Need Durable Window Shades?

When selecting shades for your home, it is essential to consider style, aesthetics, and durability. Some areas in your home will require window treatments that can withstand the test of time and use. Deciding on the right shades necessitates understanding the specific requirements of each room and then picking one that is fit for a purpose and can adequately accommodate those needs.

In the following, we will explore areas within your home that require resilient shades and identify the most suitable types for each location.

Windows That Receive A Lot of Direct Sunlight

There’s no denying the appeal of a home bathed in natural sunlight. Aside from being a great source of vitamin D, sunlight can make even the smallest spaces appear more spacious and welcoming.

However, on the flip side, too much exposure to direct sunlight can damage furniture, artwork, or other furnishings, causing them to fade over time. Well-crafted, durable shades can help regulate the amount of sunlight entering your home, protecting your interior from potential sun damage while preserving natural light.

Areas in your home that are likely to receive significant amounts of direct sunlight include:

1. Living Room: This is often one of the largest rooms in the house and usually has multiple windows. It’s a communal space where family and guests gather, so it often receives a lot of sunlight throughout the day.
2. Kitchen: Many modern kitchens feature large windows or skylights to offer plenty of natural light for cooking and dining.
3. Home Office: Many people prefer to work in an environment with natural rather than artificial light. If you have a home office, it likely has at least one large window that lets in direct sunlight during part of the day.
4. Sunroom: By definition, sunrooms let in an abundance of sunlight. They usually have large, numerous windows or glass ceiling panels, which may need to be covered when not used.
5. Bedrooms: Depending on the house’s orientation, some bedrooms may receive a lot of direct sunlight, especially in the morning.

Locations With High Humidity

Repeated exposure to high humidity and condensation is guaranteed to damage shades and blinds over time. Moisture can cause warping, discoloration, and mold growth on certain materials.

There are several areas in your home that have higher humidity levels than others, including:

1. Bathrooms: Bathrooms are naturally humid due to the regular use of showers, baths, and sinks.
2. Basement: Basements are notorious for being damp and musty due to their location below ground level. Your basement may not have windows, but if it does, choose appropriate shades.
3. Kitchen: Cooking and cleaning activities in the kitchen also generate a lot of moisture, especially if you have a gas stove or dishwasher.

High-Traffic Areas

Daily hustle and bustle in your home can take a toll on window shades, especially in high-traffic areas. Think of places accessed by family members and guests, where shades may be frequently raised and lowered throughout the day, accidentally pulled or tugged, or stained from food or drink, such as in a dining room.

Identifying Durable, Long-lasting Shades

Whether you need shades that can withstand direct sunlight, high humidity, or a lot of traffic and usage, several shades fit the bill.:

1. Roller Shades: Composed of sturdy material, roller shades are highly resistant to damage from direct sunlight, and their simple design and mechanism withstand repeated use. They are easy to clean and maintain, adding to their durability.
2. Roman Shades: Sturdy materials like bamboo or robust fabric make these shades perfect for blocking direct sunlight and ideal for sunrooms and living rooms. Roman shades made from light fabrics are also resilient against humidity.
3. Cellular Shades: Cellular shades are known for their superb insulation properties, which protect against sunlight and help maintain room temperature. The unique cellular structure also helps resist the damaging effects of humidity.
4. Solar Shades: These shades are made from a durable mesh fabric and protect against harsh sunlight while maintaining visibility. They are also mold and mildew-resistant, which helps in humid environments.
5. Faux Wood Blinds: Ideal for humid environments due to their moisture-resistant properties, these blinds can also withstand direct sunlight without warping or fading. The durability of these materials makes them ideal for heavy usage as well.
6. Metal Blinds: These shades are naturally resistant to humidity and are not prone to warping or discoloration due to sunlight. However, some metal shades can bend easily and may not be suited for rooms frequented by pets and children.

When selecting window shades for durability, consider the room’s specific conditions. Evaluate each option based on its strengths and weaknesses.

For further assistance in choosing the right shades for your home, please do not hesitate to contact us at Aeroshade.