5 Window Covering Ideas for Tall Windows (Simple 2021 Guide)

Tall windows are an excellent way to improve your view outside and allow in natural light. They do, however, have their challenges. For instance, they facilitate a lot of heat transfer which can boost your heating and cooling bills. And the reflection of lights on the screens of your TV or computer can make it difficult to work or unwind. Tall windows can make it feel like you’re living in a glasshouse, exposed to peeking eyes.

Choosing tall window treatments is likewise a challenge due to their size. If you love tall windows but worry about how to cover them, let’s examine some of the best tall window covering ideas and learn how to enhance their appearance.

5 Best Window Coverings for Tall Windows

Tall windows make an impressive style statement, but choosing how to drape them can be daunting. Keep reading to learn about the best window coverings for tall windows and how to dress them.

1. Curtains and Drapes

When it comes to tall windows, curtains and draperies are the traditional choices. They give your home a dramatic and regal look while providing the essential functions of privacy and light control.

Curtains are often confused with drapes, but there is a difference. While the former are typically more versatile and use lighter-weight fabrics, the latter are heavier and come with one or more linings and/or interlinings.

No matter which you choose, be sure to pick a fabric that suits your lighting needs. If you want to keep your home airy and let in the most light, opt for sheer curtains; if you want a neat, clean fall, choose linen or silk. For insulation that keeps the cold at bay, opt for velvet or suede draperies.

When choosing draperies, consider the room’s measurements. A 2-inch diameter curtain rod, for instance, will look insignificant on top of a 15-foot tall window, so choose bigger hardware and larger pleats to create a statement look. You can personalize your curtains or draperies to match your home decor by using tiebacks, patterns, or valances. You can also layer different materials to add interest and dimension to your room.

2. Roman Shades

If you like draperies but want a more personalized look for your tall windows, choose Roman shades. They look clean, sophisticated, and streamlined, without having mounds of fabric piled up on the floor.

You can also easily raise and lower them to control the light. When fully raised, roman shades draw your eyes to the window top and make your room look taller.

Since they have no exposed rear cords, they’re a safe option if you have small kids or pets.

Choose from a wide range of luxurious colours and fabrics in sheer, light-filtering and room-darkening opacities. Add further depth and interest to your home by layering these window shades with patterned drapery. This will break the uniformity of the space and make it look more inviting.

3. Motorized Shades

It’s toilsome to operate the shades on tall windows as they are hard to reach. Nothing spells grace and convenience like having the shades seamlessly move up and down at the push of a button or using an app. Motorized shades can be operated with a remote or an in-wall keypad when at home. You can use your smartphone or tablet to operate them even when you’re not at home. This is particularly beneficial for seniors who may have trouble getting up to adjust their window coverings.

4. Vertical Blinds

Vertical blinds are another popular window covering for tall windows. Typically made of metal, PVC or faux wood, they can be installed in any room.

For humid areas such as kitchens and bathrooms, PVC blinds (and not wooden ones) work best since they resist water and humidity, while also being easy to clean.

Vertical blinds let you control the amount of light coming in, without affecting your privacy. Just tilt the slats to allow in the light. When fully or partially closed, they help keep out harmful sun rays which can provoke headaches or eyestrain.

And as they reduce the need for air conditioning, they help save on your summer electricity costs.

5. Cellular Shades

Often referred to as honeycomb shades, cellular shades can be customized to fit tall and uniquely-shaped windows, including arched, angled or hexagonal ones.

In winter, their honeycomb-shaped air pockets prevent warm air from escaping and cold air from entering. This mechanism is reversed in summer, thus making your home comfortable year-round. The more cells your shades have, the more energy you save.

If decorated correctly, tall windows can add value to your home. Whether you choose sheer curtains, cellular shades, motorized blinds, or a combination window covering, make sure they’re in proportion with the rest of the room. Also consider the lighting, furnishings and purpose of the room before making your choice.