Remodeling or renovating your home is a perfect way to refresh while also accomplishing other goals—such as improving its beauty, safety, and even its value.
The problem for most homeowners, though, is the costliness of such an endeavor. The average cost to remodel a living room is about $7,264. Most experts recommend adding a 10% contingency fee to your budget just in case.
If you’re interested in an update but not willing to spend thousands of dollars, buying new living room curtains is a fantastic way to do so. New curtains offer a dramatic upgrade to your space, minus the hefty investment costs.
Our guide provides actionable tips for choosing the best curtains for your space.
Consider Your Budget
The cost of new curtains can vary quite drastically, ranging from $7 to $1,500 (and up) per panel.
The price tag fluctuates based on several different factors, such as the size and type of fabric you use, if there are any features such as energy efficiency, whether you need tiebacks, a rod, or rings, and more.
Once you’ve narrowed down how much you’re willing to pay in total, you’ll have a clearer direction of where (and how) to look.
Think About What Fabrics You Like
Since fabrics are one of the main components that influence both price and aesthetics, we’ll begin there.
A single living room curtain can be made from many types of fabric—velvet, silk, cotton, linen, vinyl, polyester, or even a combination of fabrics. As you’d expect, cotton curtains will be much more affordable than silk, and so on.
Some fabrics even have additional features. For example, did you know that hospital cubicle curtains are often antimicrobial, water-repellant, and fire-retardant? You may have to pay more for bells and whistles like that, but the benefits warrant the investment.
Different fabrics also offer different advantages.
Some are sheerer, allowing light (and warmth) to come through. Others are darker, even black-out style, keeping warmth in and light out. You can allow your current or future living room decor to inform which direction you’d like to go.
Measure, Measure, Measure
Finally, one of the most important living room curtain tips—taking measurements.
This step is worth repeating. As any craftsperson would say, “Measure twice; cut once.” The same adage applies here, saving you time, money, and the hassle of return trips to the store.
When it comes to curtains, you’ll only need two measurements: the width and height of the curtain.
Curtains typically look best at floor-length, allowing the fabric to look its best. You can extend the height anywhere from one to twelve inches if you want them to puddle on the floor (but keep in mind this style is more difficult to clean and open or shut). Curtains that finish at the window are typically reserved for rooms like the kitchen, whereas longer looks more elegant in living rooms.
When it comes to width and placement, living room curtains are usually wider than and higher-hung than the window itself, contributing to a bigger and brighter appearance. If using a rod, consider placing it anywhere from 8 to 10 inches above the window and anywhere from 10 to 12 inches on each side of the window.
Enjoy Your Living Room Curtains
We hope you enjoyed this living room curtain buying guide!
Choosing living room curtains doesn’t have to be difficult. Simply find a fabric and design you appreciate that’s within your budget. Next, make sure to measure twice and buy once!
Finally, relish in your new-and-improved space.
For more insight into fabulous home ideas, you know where to go. We’ll see you back at the homepage where you can find another affordable yet fun project to embark on.
