How to Beautifully Cover Arched Windows: A Step-by-Step Guide

Arched windows add architectural interest and elegance to any home. Their curved design allows for ample natural light and creates a focal point in any room. However, their unique shape can present a challenge when it comes to window coverings. Standard blinds and curtains simply won’t do. Finding the right solution requires careful consideration of aesthetics, functionality, and budget. This comprehensive guide provides a step-by-step approach to covering arched windows effectively, exploring various options and offering practical advice to help you achieve the perfect look.

Why Cover Arched Windows?

Before diving into the how-to, let’s address the ‘why.’ While the natural beauty of arched windows is undeniable, there are several compelling reasons to consider covering them:

* **Light Control:** Uncovered arched windows can flood a room with sunlight, which can be welcome in the morning but overwhelming during the afternoon. Coverings allow you to control the amount of light entering the room, reducing glare and preventing furniture from fading.
* **Privacy:** Depending on the window’s location, privacy may be a concern. Coverings offer a way to shield your home from prying eyes, especially in densely populated areas.
* **Insulation:** Windows are notorious for heat loss and gain. Covering your arched windows can provide an extra layer of insulation, helping to regulate the temperature in your home and reduce energy bills.
* **Aesthetics:** Window coverings can enhance the overall aesthetic of a room, complementing your existing décor and adding a touch of style. They can soften the harsh lines of the arch or accentuate its unique shape.

Understanding Your Arched Window

Before you start exploring covering options, take the time to understand your arched window. Consider the following factors:

* **Window Size:** Accurate measurements are crucial for a proper fit. Measure the height and width of the arch at its widest and tallest points. Also, measure the straight section below the arch, if any.
* **Window Location:** The location of the window will influence your covering choices. A south-facing window may require more light control than a north-facing window. A window in a bedroom will prioritize privacy more than a window in a living room.
* **Window Depth:** The depth of the window frame will determine the type of mounting options available. A shallow frame may limit your choices.
* **Desired Functionality:** What are your primary goals for covering the window? Are you primarily concerned with light control, privacy, insulation, or aesthetics?
* **Your Budget:** Covering arched windows can range from relatively inexpensive DIY solutions to custom-made options that can be quite costly. Set a budget before you start shopping to avoid overspending.

Covering Options for Arched Windows

There are several different approaches to covering arched windows, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. Here’s a breakdown of the most popular options:

1. Custom Arched Shutters

* **Description:** Custom arched shutters are specifically designed to fit the exact curve of your window. They offer a clean, elegant look and provide excellent light control and privacy. They are a permanent solution that adds value to your home.
* **Pros:**
* Perfect Fit: Custom-made to match the arch perfectly.
* Excellent Light Control: Adjustable louvers offer precise light control.
* Privacy: Provides complete privacy when closed.
* Insulation: Offers good insulation against heat loss and gain.
* Durability: Long-lasting and durable.
* Aesthetic Appeal: Enhances the architectural features of the window.
* **Cons:**
* Cost: The most expensive option.
* Installation: Requires professional installation.
* Permanent: Cannot be easily removed or changed.
* **Best For:** Homeowners who want a high-end, permanent solution with excellent light control and privacy.
* **Installation Steps:**
1. **Professional Measurement:** A professional installer will accurately measure the arched window opening.
2. **Custom Manufacturing:** The shutters are custom-made based on the measurements.
3. **Frame Installation:** The shutter frame is carefully installed into the window opening.
4. **Shutter Panel Installation:** The shutter panels are attached to the frame, ensuring smooth operation.
5. **Adjustment and Fine-Tuning:** The installer will adjust the shutters to ensure proper alignment and functionality.

2. Arched Blinds or Shades

* **Description:** Arched blinds or shades are similar to standard blinds or shades, but they are custom-made to fit the arched shape. They can be fixed or operable, allowing you to raise and lower them as needed.
* **Pros:**
* Custom Fit: Designed to fit the arch perfectly.
* Light Control: Offers good light control, depending on the material.
* Privacy: Provides varying degrees of privacy.
* Variety of Materials: Available in a wide range of materials, colors, and styles.
* **Cons:**
* Cost: More expensive than standard blinds or shades.
* Operation: Operable versions can be difficult to raise and lower smoothly.
* May Obscure the Arch: Can partially or fully cover the arch when closed.
* **Best For:** Homeowners who want a custom-fit solution with adjustable light control and privacy, but are looking for a slightly more affordable option than shutters.
* **Installation Steps:**
1. **Professional Measurement:** Accurate measurements are crucial for a proper fit.
2. **Custom Manufacturing:** The blinds or shades are custom-made based on the measurements.
3. **Mounting Hardware Installation:** Mounting brackets are installed inside the window frame or on the wall above the window.
4. **Blind/Shade Installation:** The blind or shade is attached to the mounting hardware.
5. **Testing and Adjustment:** Ensure the blind/shade operates smoothly and adjust as needed.

3. Soft Arched Window Treatments (Drapes/Curtains)

* **Description:** Soft window treatments, such as drapes or curtains, can be used to soften the lines of an arched window and add a touch of elegance. They can be hung in various ways to create different looks.
* **Pros:**
* Aesthetic Appeal: Adds softness and elegance to the room.
* Variety of Fabrics: Available in a wide range of fabrics, colors, and patterns.
* Customizable: Can be customized to create a unique look.
* Relatively Affordable: Can be a more affordable option than shutters or custom blinds.
* **Cons:**
* Light Control: May not provide the best light control.
* Privacy: May not provide complete privacy.
* Can Obscure the Arch: Can partially or fully cover the arch, depending on the style.
* **Best For:** Homeowners who prioritize aesthetics and are looking for a soft, elegant look. Suitable for rooms where light control and privacy are not primary concerns.
* **Installation Methods (Several options, choose one based on desired look):
* **Fixed Rod Above the Arch:** A decorative rod is mounted above the arch, and the drapes are hung to cascade down, framing the window. This allows the arch to remain visible. *Installation Steps: Measure and install curtain rod brackets above the window frame. Hang curtains or drapes on the rod.*
* **Rod Following the Arch (Difficult):** A flexible curtain rod is used to follow the curve of the arch. *Installation Steps: Carefully bend a flexible curtain rod to match the arch. Secure the rod to the window frame with appropriate brackets. Hang lightweight curtains.* Note: This method can be challenging and may not be suitable for heavy fabrics.
* **Stationary Fabric Swag:** Fabric is draped across the top of the arch and secured in place, creating a swag effect. *Installation Steps: Measure and cut the fabric to the desired length and width. Attach fabric to the window frame using staples, tacks, or decorative hardware, creating a swag.* This is a decorative option and provides minimal light control or privacy.
* **Combination of Straight and Arched Rods:** A straight rod is installed below the arch, and a separate arched rod is used for the arched section. *Installation Steps: Install a straight curtain rod below the arch. Install a flexible or custom-bent rod following the arch above the straight rod. Hang curtains or drapes on both rods.* This allows you to cover the straight section separately from the arch.

4. Cellular Shades (Honeycomb Shades)

* **Description:** Cellular shades, also known as honeycomb shades, are a popular choice for windows of all shapes and sizes. Their unique cellular design provides excellent insulation and light control.
* **Pros:**
* Excellent Insulation: Traps air in the cells, providing excellent insulation.
* Light Control: Available in a variety of opacities, from sheer to blackout.
* Energy Efficiency: Helps to reduce energy bills.
* Relatively Affordable: More affordable than shutters or custom blinds.
* Can be Custom-Made: Can be custom-made to fit arched windows, though often the arch is fixed and the bottom portion is operable.
* **Cons:**
* May Obscure the Arch: Can partially or fully cover the arch when closed.
* Cleaning: Can be difficult to clean.
* **Best For:** Homeowners who prioritize energy efficiency and light control and are looking for a relatively affordable option.
* **Installation Steps:**
1. **Professional Measurement:** Precise measurements are essential.
2. **Custom Manufacturing:** The shades are custom-made to your window’s specifications.
3. **Mounting Bracket Installation:** Install mounting brackets either inside the window frame or outside the frame (depending on your preference and the shade design).
4. **Shade Installation:** Attach the cellular shade to the mounting brackets, ensuring it clicks or locks securely into place.
5. **Operational Test:** Test the shade’s functionality, raising and lowering it to ensure smooth operation. Adjust as needed.

5. Temporary Solutions: Tension Rods and Fabric

* **Description:** For a temporary or budget-friendly solution, consider using tension rods and fabric. This involves installing tension rods inside the arched window frame and draping fabric across them.
* **Pros:**
* Affordable: A very inexpensive option.
* Easy Installation: No drilling or permanent modifications required.
* Temporary: Easily removed or changed.
* Customizable: Use any fabric you like to match your décor.
* **Cons:**
* Limited Light Control: Offers minimal light control.
* Limited Privacy: Provides limited privacy.
* Not Very Durable: Tension rods can sometimes slip or fall.
* Aesthetic Appeal: May not be the most aesthetically pleasing option.
* **Best For:** Renters, homeowners on a tight budget, or those who need a temporary solution while they consider more permanent options.
* **Installation Steps:**
1. **Measure the Window:** Measure the width of the arched window opening where you want to place the tension rods.
2. **Cut Fabric:** Cut a piece of fabric slightly wider than the window opening to allow for draping.
3. **Install Tension Rods:** Install tension rods inside the window frame at the desired height, ensuring they are secure.
4. **Drape Fabric:** Drape the fabric over the tension rods, adjusting the folds to create the desired look.

6. Combining Solutions

Sometimes, the best approach is to combine different solutions. For example, you could install fixed arched shutters or shades for the arched portion of the window and then use standard blinds or curtains for the straight section below. This allows you to control light and privacy in the straight section while maintaining the architectural beauty of the arch.

Step-by-Step Guide to Covering Arched Windows

Regardless of the covering option you choose, here’s a general step-by-step guide to help you through the process:

**Step 1: Assess Your Needs and Preferences**

* Consider your primary goals for covering the window: light control, privacy, insulation, aesthetics.
* Determine your budget.
* Research different covering options and weigh their pros and cons.
* Gather inspiration from magazines, websites, and home décor stores.

**Step 2: Measure Your Window**

* Accurate measurements are crucial for a proper fit. If possible hire a professional to measure. Otherwise follow these steps precisely.
* Use a measuring tape to measure the height and width of the arch at its widest and tallest points.
* Measure the straight section below the arch, if any.
* Measure the depth of the window frame.
* Record all measurements carefully.

**Step 3: Choose Your Covering Option**

* Based on your needs, preferences, budget, and window measurements, select the covering option that best suits your situation.
* Consider the material, color, and style of the covering to complement your existing décor.

**Step 4: Order or Purchase Your Materials**

* If you’re opting for custom-made shutters, blinds, or shades, contact a reputable window treatment company and schedule a consultation. Ensure they offer guarantees and good reviews. Get multiple quotes.
* If you’re going the DIY route, purchase the necessary materials from a home improvement store or online retailer.
* Double-check all measurements and specifications before placing your order.

**Step 5: Prepare Your Window**

* Clean the window and window frame thoroughly.
* Remove any existing window coverings or hardware.
* Repair any damage to the window frame.

**Step 6: Install Your Covering (DIY or Professional)**

* Follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully when installing your chosen covering.
* If you’re not comfortable with DIY installation, hire a professional installer.
* Ensure all hardware is securely fastened.

**Step 7: Test and Adjust**

* Once the covering is installed, test its functionality.
* Raise and lower blinds or shades to ensure smooth operation.
* Adjust the louvers on shutters to control light and privacy.
* Make any necessary adjustments to ensure a perfect fit and proper operation.

**Step 8: Enjoy Your Beautiful Arched Window Covering!**

* Step back and admire your newly covered arched window.
* Enjoy the enhanced light control, privacy, and aesthetics.

Tips for Choosing the Right Arched Window Covering

* **Consider the Room’s Function:** The function of the room will influence your covering choices. A bedroom will require more privacy than a living room.
* **Match Your Décor:** Choose a covering that complements your existing décor in terms of color, style, and material.
* **Think About Light Control:** Determine how much light control you need and choose a covering that offers the appropriate level of opacity.
* **Don’t Be Afraid to Mix and Match:** Consider combining different covering options for the arched and straight sections of the window.
* **Get Professional Advice:** If you’re unsure which covering option is best for you, consult with a professional window treatment specialist.
* **Consider Energy Efficiency:** If energy efficiency is a priority, choose a covering that provides good insulation, such as cellular shades or shutters.
* **Think About Maintenance:** Choose a covering that is easy to clean and maintain.
* **Check Warranty:** Ensure the covering comes with a warranty to protect against defects.
* **Read Reviews:** Before making a purchase, read online reviews from other customers to get an idea of the quality and performance of the covering.
* **Don’t Settle:** Take your time, do your research, and choose a covering that you truly love. Covering arched windows is an investment, so you want to make sure you’re happy with your choice for years to come.

Maintaining Your Arched Window Coverings

Once you’ve installed your arched window coverings, proper maintenance is essential to keep them looking their best and functioning properly. Here are some tips:

* **Dust Regularly:** Dust your window coverings regularly with a soft cloth or duster to prevent dust buildup.
* **Vacuum:** Vacuum fabric coverings periodically to remove dirt and debris.
* **Spot Clean:** Spot clean any stains or spills immediately with a damp cloth and mild detergent.
* **Clean According to Manufacturer’s Instructions:** Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions for cleaning your specific type of window covering.
* **Lubricate Moving Parts:** Lubricate any moving parts, such as hinges or cords, with a silicone-based lubricant to ensure smooth operation.
* **Inspect for Damage:** Regularly inspect your window coverings for any signs of damage, such as tears, rips, or broken slats.
* **Repair or Replace Damaged Parts:** Repair or replace any damaged parts promptly to prevent further damage.
* **Professional Cleaning:** Consider professional cleaning for more thorough cleaning, especially for delicate fabrics or intricate designs.

Conclusion

Covering arched windows can seem daunting, but with careful planning and the right approach, you can find a solution that enhances the beauty and functionality of your home. By understanding your needs, exploring different covering options, and following the steps outlined in this guide, you can achieve the perfect look and enjoy the benefits of well-covered arched windows for years to come. Remember to prioritize accurate measurements, quality materials, and professional installation (if needed) to ensure a successful outcome. So, take the plunge and transform your arched windows into stunning focal points that add value and style to your home!