Window Covering Ideas for Bay Windows
Curtains
Did you know that Kirsch makes bay window rods? They sure do! The rods are available just like any other curtain rod in single, double and 2 �½ inch. Each of the sections expand alone for a perfect fit for each window section. All you need to do is measure the length of each window and you will be able to purchase the expandable rods that will fit your size. You will need to measure exactly where you plan to mount the curtain, the ends should be mounted on the wall or frame on the outside windows while support brackets will be placed on the molding or wall in between the middle and outside windows. The rods are expandable so measurements need to be detailed but not perfect.
Aluminum and Vinyl Mini Blinds
Conventional Ã?½-1″ mini blinds are an easy and affordable way to cover your bay widows. With this option you can cover the area for as low as $30. Mini blinds not only provide privacy, but they also open up by tilting the slats with a knob or opening them entirely up with a string. The best way to install this type of window treatment is by inside mount or mounting them inside the window frame. To measure: measure the width of each section on the inside at the top, middle and bottom. Then you will measure the length. Most blinds already have a Ã?½” deduction taken from them for inside mount so an additional deduction is not necessary. Take your narrowest width and length and this will be the size that you need. All you need now is a drill and a screwdriver. The mounts will have holes where the screws should go in; you have to use top mounting for bay windows. Drill the holes, screw in the mounts & screws and then slide the blinds into the bracket.
Wood and 2″ Vinyl Blinds
Wood and 2″ Vinyl blinds are another great window treatment option for Bay windows. They are often considered the upscale version of the conventional mini blind. The 2″ slats make the coverings look more like shutters with the convenience of the mini blind features. These blinds can tilt open with a string or wand and raise and lower as well. They are much heavier than mini blinds but also add a degree of sophistication. Today, these two inch blinds come in real wood or the less expensive faux wood version. Many home improvement stores carry either option in stock in limited sizes and some even have the capability to cut to order. These blinds can also be shortened in length after installation if the length purchased is too long. See Mini blind measure and installation instructions which are the same direction as for 2″ wood and Vinyl blinds.
Pleated and Honeycomb Shades
Pleated and honeycomb shades are soft window treatment options that are available for bay windows that can allow for privacy while some can even insulate. Pleated shades are one layer thick and look like an accordion when they are closed. They are available in a multitude of colors and fabrics and are controlled by a simple cord. Similar to mini blinds, when the cord is pulled the fabric is retracted up the window to the top and nicely bunched up accordion style which barely obstructs the view. Honeycomb shades are the same concept as pleated shades but they are multi layers and can be single, double or even triple cell thick. Honey comb shades are great window treatment options for bay widows in that they also provide and insulating factor due to the thick fabric used. To measure and install see mini-blinds starting at to measure.
Shutters
Shutters are often acclaimed as one of the most beautiful window treatment elements when added to bay windows; they are also the most expensive. Shutters are installed as a permanent element to your home and are usually custom fit to inside or outside on each individual window. The benefit of shutters is that they can tilt to allow some light in and still provide privacy or they can be completely opened to for a full window view. Unless you are a professional, it is recommended that you contact a shutter service to design and install your shutters. Shutters generally cost hundreds of dollars per window and even the slightest measuring error can be detrimental to the project.
Don’t be afraid if you have a bay window and you think it can not be covered. There are many available window treatment options for bay windows and at a reasonable cost.
