You might be familiar with the concepts of room darkening vs. blackout curtains, but what are the differences and similarities between light-filtering and room-darkening curtains?
When it comes to light filtering vs. room darkening curtains, there are probably more than enough questions that may just come into your head. But it’s vital to know that it’s not just how your room will look. Sunglasses and sunscreen are used to protect the eyes and skin from the sun, but your home actually needs similar assistance. So, are light filtering and sheer curtains the same? Better yet, what about room darkening vs light filtering?
Well, these window treatments are perfect for adding that finishing touch to your room, but they can also help protect your space from harmful UV rays. This includes the walls, furniture, flooring, and all the other contents in the space, such as decorative accents. So, if you’re stuck on which type of curtain is best for your room, then continue reading to find out more.
So, what are light-filtering curtains? Curtains are mainly there to help block out the sunlight, right? So why are light-filtering curtains a thing? Questioning what is light filtering curtains is pretty understandable, especially given the fact that it sort of cancels out the work that a curtain is supposed to do. So, what do light filtering curtains mean? Well, it essentially means that the curtains are filtering out the light. Some of the light comes in, allowing the room to still be bright compared to room-darkening curtains.
What about light-filtering vs. sheer curtains? Wouldn’t they be technically the same, as sheer curtains also allow natural lighting to come into the room? Well, sheer, light-filtering, and room-darkening curtains are all different, and that is mainly based on how they are weaved. The same can even be said about sheer vs. semi-sheer curtains; the weave methods within are all quite different.
The fabric’s weave determines the opacity, the ability to allow light to come in through the material itself. Generally speaking, sheer curtains invite in more sunlight compared to light-filtering curtains. However, the exact same can be said about sheer vs. semi-sheer curtains. Light-filtering curtains block out less sunlight, about 95% or less.
Whenever you’re trying to decide between light filtering curtains or darkening room curtains, it’s best to first know about the pros and cons of both. This is going to be the best way to help determine what may be best for you, your lifestyle, and the room itself. Light-filtering curtains are ideal for rooms where you want to keep the natural light in, while room darkening curtains will be where you’d prefer it to be dark, almost cave-like. Let’s dive into the advantages and disadvantages of light-filtering curtains.
There are plenty of benefits to having light-filtering curtains in your space; some of the best benefits can include:
● Light filtering curtains can offer a thin layer of privacy
● There are plenty of options from the textures, styles, colors, and even patterns for light filtering curtains
● Energy efficient as they bring in heat and rely less on artificial light
● The direct lighting from the sun is soften
● Ideal for areas such as studies, kitchens, and dining rooms
Of course, while there are many benefits to having light filtering curtains there are going to be some disadvantages as well. Here are some of the following drawbacks to these type of curtains.
● Lack of insulation from extreme temperatures
● Privacy is limited
● Not ideal for bedrooms
● Limitability on the amount of light that is blocked out
Room-darkening curtains are commonly used in bathrooms, bedrooms, nurseries, and even home theaters. They are particularly loved as they help keep the rooms dark when the curtains are closed. The room-darkening curtain is usually more sought after due to its ability to block out light within the space.
Just as there are benefits and negatives to light filtering curtains, the very same can be said about room darkening curtains too. The curtains room darkening features offers various pros and cons, so let’s dive into them.
Room darkening curtains tend to be more in demand, especially for areas needing a dark space during the nights and early mornings such as bedrooms. Here are some of the major benefits that room darkening curtains have.
● They’re able to help keep glares away from screens such as computers and TVs
● Able to help block out light pollution whether it be sunlight, street lights, or even car lights
● Energy efficient in the sense they help out in blocking extreme temperatures (hot or cold)
● Significantly more privacy compared to shades, blinds, or light filtering curtains
● Blocks out natural light for better sleep
Even though room darkening curtains can be wonderful, they will also have some negatives. Here are some drawbacks that room darkening curtains tend to be known for.
● Not suitable for all rooms, such as living rooms and kitchens
● Bigger reliance on artificial lighting
One of the major differences between light filtering and blackout curtains would be the light control and the flexibility that’s given. But, it’s not even just with light filtering and room darkening, the very same can be said with room darkening vs blackout curtains. In general, if you want more light control, light-filtering curtains will be the greatest choice. Room darkening (and blackout curtains) don’t necessarily allow you to vary the light. While light filtering curtains offer a soft, warm glow.
So, what is the difference between light filtering and room darkening curtains in a sense of privacy? Everyone is entitled to privacy, especially in their own home. However, light-filtering curtains so significantly give off less privacy compared to their room-darkening counterpart. Light filtering curtains aren’t transparent per se, but your silhouette can still be seen through the window. On the other hand, room darkening and blackout options can provide better privacy, especially for bedrooms and bathrooms.
A common question asked during the purchasing process of curtains is, “Do light-filtering curtains provide privacy at night?” and “Are light-filtering curtains see-through?” Well, light-filtering curtains’ privacy can be questionable as shadows are shown; they’re not exactly see-through either. Yes, you can have some privacy with light-filtering curtains, but it’s still strongly ideal that these curtains are used for more communal spaces such as kitchens or living rooms and not for bedrooms.
While there are some differences between room-darkening curtains and blackout curtains, are room-darkening curtains see-through? Also, can you see through room-darkening curtains? Due to how room-darkening curtains are weaved, it’s not possible to see through them, and this includes silhouettes. Due to this and their structure, they’re perfect for rooms that need privacy, such as bedrooms and bathrooms.
Window coverings in rooms are perfect way to make a home more energy efficient. They can save energy by reducing the heating and cooling within the space. Around 30% of the heating energy escapes through the windows, and even cold air can come through the spaces of the windows and the sill. So, curtains provide that perfect form of insulation, and this is especially more apparent with thermal insulated curtains.
Insulted curtains and insulated window coverings in general can keep the heat out in the summer months and help push the cold away during the winter season. Room darkening curtains and blackout curtains are the two best insulation curtains that are available. They’re made with heavier fabrics such as wool, burlap, but can come in a variety of other materials as well.
How much does a curtain cost? Are curtains expensive in general? Well, when questioning how much curtains cost, it’s not exactly a “one-size-fits-all. Some materials are cheaper than others, and some styles of window treatments will be more affordable than others. Since window treatments can vary in price points, you can safely assume that heavier fabrics will be more expensive. Room darkening window coverings are made with heavier fabrics and, which will be more expensive than light-filtering curtains. Overall, you can count on light-filtering curtains to be far cheaper.
