How to Blackout Windows: Simple Tips for Complete Light Control

How To
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BY BLINDSTER

If you can't sleep well or too much light is coming into your room, learning how to blackout windows is really important. You don't have to be a pro at DIY to make a dark, quiet space, which is good news. Controlling the light in your room can be easier than you think, whether you're working from home, attempting to sleep in, or making the area feel more intimate.

Here are several easy ways to block out the light and make every area feel just right.

Why It's Important to Have Blackout Windows

Before we get into the details, let's talk about why blackout windows could transform the way your area looks. Making a room dark can make a big difference in how well you sleep. That light that comes in through your curtains or blinds at noon? Yeah, that doesn't help when you want to sleep.

You can sleep better and even get more done when you need to if you can manage how much light comes into your room. Blackout windows are also great if you have a home theater or just want to watch TV without any glare.

How to Pick the Best Blackout Curtains or Blinds
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Choosing the correct kind of window treatment for your needs is quite crucial. Your style, how much light control you require, and the overall look of the room will all play a role in whether you choose blackout curtains or blinds. Curtains give a room a more dramatic, soft aspect, while blinds can make it look cleaner and more modern. To get the best results in blocking light, you'll want to think about the colors and materials that will match the decor in your space.

How to Get the Right Size for Your Windows

It's very important to measure your windows accurately so that your drapes or blinds fit perfectly. First, measure the height and width, making sure to leave a little additional room on each side for drapery and blinds that are mounted outside the window. For blinds mounted inside the window opening, you'll measure the exact dimensions of the window opening, as well as the depth to make sure the blinds fit in the frame. If you want to buy custom products, make sure you have the right measurements to ensure the installation goes well and the light control is at its best.

Installing Blackout Curtains or Blinds
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So, your blackout curtains or blinds are all ready to go. Now is the moment to put them in. If you're going to do it yourself, here's a general instruction on how to hang those blackout curtains and make them look beautiful.

  • For Curtains:
    • Hang your curtain rod about 4-6 inches above the window frame. This will help create the illusion of taller windows and ensure greater light blocking.
    • Make sure your curtains are wide enough to cover the full width of the window. The wider, the better.
  • For Blinds:
    • Measure your window frame carefully prior to ordering to ensure the blinds fit properly.
    • Mount the brackets according to the instructions (usually either inside or outside the frame), and then attach the blinds.

If you've got custom blinds, it's even easier—everything is sized perfectly for you!

Using Extra Window Treatments to Control Light Better

Sometimes one treatment isn't enough to block all the light, especially in rooms with big windows or at certain times of the day. You can control light better by layering your window treatments with window treatments of different opacities or by using multiple types of window treatments together, like adding top-down, bottom-up shades. This helps provide you control over the light that comes into your space while still keeping it private. When you use different opacity shades with blackout treatments, they work better for both day and night.

Other Tips for Complete Light Control

Here are a few more tips to help you block out as much light as possible:

  • Use Velcro or magnetic strips to close up any little gaps around your window treatments. This is a simple and cheap way to stop those annoying light leaks.
  • Window tinting is another option. It helps cut down on glare and keep light from streaming in through the glass. This is quite helpful for spaces that get a lot of direct sunshine.
Why Customization Is Important
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If you really want to block out light, don't settle for generic methods. Customization is really important. Blindster has a variety of unique window treatments that are made just for you to perfectly fit your window and maximize light blocking. Blindster's made-to-order solutions can help you get the right amount of light control for your room, whether you want custom blackout blinds or shades.

Conclusion

If you prepare ahead and get the correct materials, you can make a big impact when it comes to blacking out your windows. There are several ways to get the amount of light you need, whether you want to sleep in complete darkness or just want to cut down on glare during the day. It's important to identify what fits your house and lifestyle, whether it's blackout curtains, blinds, or even custom alternatives.

Take a look at Blindster's custom blinds and shades to start making your home more comfy and dark.

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