Brendan Macdonald`s Home Issue » Window Treatment http://www.brendanmacdonald.com Furniture, Design, Home Remodeling, Renovation Thu, 09 Sep 2010 13:30:01 +0000 http://wordpress.org/?v=2.9.1 en hourly 1 Building With Windows In Mind http://www.brendanmacdonald.com/building-with-windows-in-mind http://www.brendanmacdonald.com/building-with-windows-in-mind#comments Fri, 18 Jun 2010 12:21:40 +0000 admin http://www.brendanmacdonald.com/?p=35 There is a lot to think about when designing a home, as many people simply overlook window treatments. In this article, I’m hoping to help you avoid the common pitfalls involved and help you save some money.

When using decorative casing such as shutters and 2 inch plantation size wooden blinds, you should always make sure that you have at least 2 1/2″. When you have a double or triple window encased within one window opening, you may want to use a vertical trim strips between each window. Make sure that you include this when measuring the depth. Even though it is less common decorating sliding doors, make sure that you include the handle when you measure, as the usual depth for this is 4 inches.

There are several different styles of window treatments, such as circular, arced, eyebrow arched, or even angles. All of them are beautiful and appealing, although very restricted when it comes to choices, especially when you are working with eyebrow and 1/4 arches.

When you are dealing with French doors there are a few things to keep in mind. The doors will normally swing open into the home, which could cause problems with the valance you use. Consider using a valance mounted to the door or allowing the doors to swing outward. When you are considering shades, blinds, or shuters, don’t forget to consider the handles and locks.

Make sure that when you are considering window treatments that you remember window placement as well. There are many restrictions when you have chair rails or base boards going around the opening of the window. There could also be a problem with the placement of the drapery as well.

The drapery may not stack back sufficiently or the outside edge may not extend to the outside of the window. Things can go much easier if you have the same amount of space on each side of the window, so you should try to center the window whenever you can.

When you place the window, make sure that you leave enough space between the top of the window and the ceiling. There should be at least 2 inches for bracket placement. When installing a wood header, make sure that it extends to the ceiling and that the heavier treatments are mounted in the wood. If you aren’t using wood headers but instead mounting into sheetrock you should use molly or toggle bolts for the best possible protection.

There are other things you need to consider when it comes to windows. First, you’ll need to make sure that all windows are accessible even those in an unfinished attic. This will help make things easier for future decorating or expansion of the room. Also, make sure that the windows in the room are the same style.

]]> http://www.brendanmacdonald.com/building-with-windows-in-mind/feed 0 Reputable Window Covering Supplier on Internet http://www.brendanmacdonald.com/reputable-window-covering-supplier-on-internet http://www.brendanmacdonald.com/reputable-window-covering-supplier-on-internet#comments Fri, 26 Feb 2010 10:33:06 +0000 admin http://www.brendanmacdonald.com/?p=253 In your attempt to purchase window coverings on internet, you will certainly find facts that there are plenty websites offering window coverings. This condition is surely beneficial for you as you have more options to choose. In order to get optimum benefits from shopping window covering on internet, you have to manage to purchase products from a reputable supplier. This will not be difficult to do because a reputable window covering supplier is usually popular.

One window covering supplier that has good reputation is Shadesshuttersblinds.com. As you see at this website, there are large collections of window coverings. Their selections of shutters, shades, and blinds will not only perfectly protect your room from outside lights but also perfectly beautify your room. Since this store has large product collection, you will be able to find a perfect window covering easily. You can search for a product by yourselves or ask assistance from their knowledgeable customer service. The customer service will assist you to make the best decision.

Further, this website also offers professional installation to ensure that the window coverings are installed correctly. You can either visit or call this website if you have further questions about the service and pricing. Therefore, anytime you need to purchase window coverings from a reputable store, you had better purchase from this website.

]]> http://www.brendanmacdonald.com/reputable-window-covering-supplier-on-internet/feed 0 Installing Mini Blinds http://www.brendanmacdonald.com/installing-mini-blinds http://www.brendanmacdonald.com/installing-mini-blinds#comments Fri, 18 Dec 2009 12:56:42 +0000 admin http://www.brendanmacdonald.com/?p=9 Measuring The first thing to do, is to determine the position of the mini blinds, deciding if they will be inside or outside of the window. Inside mounting will look more customized, although outside mounting will provide better control of lighting.

For inside frame mounting, measure the width between the points where the brackets will be placed; top, middle, and bottom. Record the narrowest of the measurements you receive. Now, measure the length from the top inside casing of the windowsill. At least 1 inch of flat surface will be needed on the inside casing in order to attach the brackets.

For outside frame mounting, you’ll need to measure the overall width of the area to be covered. Hang your mini blinds outside of the frame if there is less than 1″ of flat surface on the inside casing. The measurement should overlap the window by at least 1 1/2″ on each side.

Installation

1. Determine if you want inside or outside mounting, and measure your window accordingly. 2. After you have purchased the correct size of mini blinds, remove the window stop from the top of the window on the window casing. 3. Screw the brackets that came with your blinds to the side window casing at the top, using either two or three screws per bracket. 4. With the wand on the left and the lift cord on the right, slide the mini blinds into the brackets you just installed. 5. Once you have the mini blinds in place, secure the caps over the brackets. 6. If the blinds are too long, remove the slats from the bottom of them, as this should help to get them to the appropriate height.

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]]> http://www.brendanmacdonald.com/installing-mini-blinds/feed 0 Buying Interior Shutters Online http://www.brendanmacdonald.com/buying-interior-shutters-online http://www.brendanmacdonald.com/buying-interior-shutters-online#comments Thu, 22 Oct 2009 12:29:52 +0000 admin http://www.brendanmacdonald.com/?p=45 The Internet has become a world of opportunity for home buyers over the years, giving them new and improved ways to buy interior shutters. With the Internet by your side, you can find hundreds of shutters that you can buy with just a few clicks of your mouse. Don’t forget to add dog tags too for your lovely pet.

The ease of use is the most important feature for online companies when it comes to interior window shutters. Websites that are poor in design and difficult to navigate are of little use to potential customers. Good shutter websits should display navigation choices on every page, including choices for construction material, styles, finishes, price, measuring, and the ability to buy shutters.

The education about window shutters is also a very important feature. Good shutter sites should welcome the questions you have and supply you with the information you need. Sites should also describe all of the information relating to their shutters, including the material used to produce the shutters, and the exact sizes of such components.

When you buy your interior shutters online, the website should provide measuring instructions that are easy to obtain. The company should also offer assistance if you need it. If the company doesn’t offer advice or instructions that are easily available to you, you should take your business somewhere else.

Anytime you buy your interior shutters online, you should always take the necessary time to research and make sure you getting exactly what you want – for the right price. You don’t want to rush into buying your shutters, as you could easily sacrifice quality or price. Therefore, always take your time, think about what you are buying, and be sure to compare what one website offers to another one.

]]> http://www.brendanmacdonald.com/buying-interior-shutters-online/feed 0 Custom Shutters http://www.brendanmacdonald.com/custom-shutters http://www.brendanmacdonald.com/custom-shutters#comments Sun, 11 Oct 2009 12:27:13 +0000 admin http://www.brendanmacdonald.com/?p=41 A lot of companies claim to sell custom shutters, although they may actually be selling customized interior shutters. Customized types of shutters will start as pre-built individual stock size shutter panels, which are then cut down and hinged together to achieve a specific size of shutter.

This will generally result in shutters that are a poor fit for the windows of your home. The shutters aren’t proportional to the window size and depending on how much of it was trimmed, the panels themselves may also be compromised.

Synthetic shutters on the other hand, normally use pre-made stiles, rails, and louvers, then cut them to size for quick production. This can also result in an improper fit and components that aren’t in proportion to the window.

Other companies out there sell custom made shutters, which are shutters specifically made from the start for each individual window. Even though this may sound very nice, the results are normally those you wouldn’t want to display on your home. With your home being very important, the last thing you want is shoddy shutters.

Custom made shutters are fabricated so that all stiles and rails can be uniformed throughout the house or office. Even though they claim the custom made shutters are perfectly made for your windows, it generally isn’t the case

When you go out and purchase shutters, you should always avoid companies that sell customized types of shutters. Instead, you should use the old fashioned method and measure what you need, then go out and buy.

This way, you’ll know exactly what you need to buy. You can select the shutters you like the best, even those that match the interior or exterior of your home. Before you know it, you’ll have the shutters you’ve always wanted – your way.

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]]> http://www.brendanmacdonald.com/custom-shutters/feed 0 Exterior Shutters http://www.brendanmacdonald.com/exterior-shutters http://www.brendanmacdonald.com/exterior-shutters#comments Fri, 11 Sep 2009 12:24:54 +0000 admin http://www.brendanmacdonald.com/?p=38 Installing exterior shutters to a window is a quick and easy way to add style and flair to the outside of a home. Both historical and modern houses will benefit from the timeless accent of having exterior shutters. As with all types of home improvements, the quality and longevity of the exterior shutters should be evaluated before you make a purchase.

The exterior window shutters for your home are available in many different shapes and materials. Vinyl or wood shutters are easily available at most home improvement stores, and they can also be a cost effective option. You can also make wooden shutters operable with functional hardware.

Exterior shutters can also be made out of several types of wood. The best wod to use is cedar, as it offers outstanding durablity and resistance to decay. Cedar also provides long service with minimal maintenance in applications involving mud, silk, window sahes, fencing, poles, and even exterior shutters.

The tannin oil in ceder is what really makes it an ideal wood for exterior shutters. It will prevent moisture penetration – and bugs hate it. Keep in mind, exterior shutters shouldn’t be left unprotected. It is however, best to finish the shutters before you install them, so that all surfaces can be fully covered.

The ideal base for exterior shutters is a primer coat of oil base primer that is tinted as close to the final color as possible. The oil will penetrate into the wood, giving better protection. For the best results in painting, you should always consult a professional painting company.

You can mount exterior shutters to your home with a 1/2″ spacer between the back of the panels and the building to allow ventilation. If you aren’t using functional hardware, you should use rust proof screws that sink flush to the wood. Once you have finished the installation, simply paint over the heads of the screws.

By having on opaque finish painted on the wood, it will prevent light rays from penetrating the finish and breaking down wooden fibers of your exterior shutters. If you choose, you can also stain exterior shutters.

Anytime you are staining shutters, you should use finishing products that are designed specifically for exterior use, and be prepared to do proper maintence on your shutters to keep them looking good all the time.

Exterior shutters will add color and style to the outside of your home, making them a purchase you can’t go wrong with. Wooden exterior shutters are the most popular and best to use – making them something you truly must have for your home.

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