What Are the Pros and Cons of Arched Window Coverings

Arched windows make your home look beautiful. Many people pick arched window coverings because they show off the curved shape. These coverings add charm to any room. You get more sunlight, which makes your space brighter. More sunlight can help you save money on energy bills. Homeowners see that arched window coverings make their homes look better from outside. This can also make your house worth more.

But there are some problems. Covering an arched window can be expensive. You often need a professional to install it. Most arched windows do not open, so you do not get more air. You also have to clean and check the window and its covering often. This helps keep everything working well.

Picking the best arched window covering means you need to think about beauty, price, and how it works in your home.

Arched Window Covering Overview

What Are Arched Windows

Arched windows are found in many homes. They can be in old or new houses. These windows have a rounded top, not a flat one. The curve makes your home look soft and fancy. Many people like arched windows because they make rooms seem taller. They also let in more sunlight. The special shape stands out and draws attention. You might see these windows in Romanesque, Renaissance, or Mediterranean homes. There are different kinds of arched windows. Some are half-circle, eyebrow, Gothic, or elliptical. Each kind gives your home a special style.

Arched windows can make your house look better from the street. They might even make your home worth more money.

Here is a quick look at the most popular types of arched window coverings and their features:

Unique Challenges

It is harder to cover arched windows than regular ones. The curve means you need a special fit. Most blinds or shades do not work for these windows. You have to measure the curve very carefully. Many arched window coverings need special tools or help from a pro. Sometimes, you must pick if you want to cover the whole window or just the bottom. This choice changes how much light and privacy you get.

• Here are some problems you might have:

  • Making the covering fit the curve with no spaces.

  • Picking between fixed or moving coverings.

  • Deciding how much privacy and light you want.

  • Cleaning the window and covering, especially if it is high up.

Some arched windows, like long or oval ones, need even more careful fitting. You might need a shelf or special bracket to put up the covering. These extra steps make arched window coverings harder than regular ones.

Shutters

Pros and Cons

Shutters give you a strong and stylish way to cover your arched window. You get a custom fit that matches the curve, so your window keeps its unique look. Shutters work well for privacy and light control. You can open or close the louvers to let in sunlight or block it out. This helps you keep your room comfortable and private.

Shutters last a long time. Most are made from wood or strong composite materials. They do not fade or wear out quickly. You also get better energy efficiency. Polywood plantation shutters seal tightly and keep heat out, which can lower your energy bills. Take a look at this chart to see how shutters compare to other window coverings for energy efficiency:

But shutters have some downsides. The cost is higher than blinds or curtains. You may pay $300 to $800 for each arched window. Installation takes time and needs a professional. If your window has a special shape, the job gets harder and more expensive. Shutters are permanent, so you need to make sure they fit your style before you buy.

Here is a quick table showing the pros and cons:

Tip: Shutters keep your arched window looking beautiful and help save energy, but you need to plan for the cost and installation.

Customization

You can choose many options to make shutters match your arched window and your home. Pick from hardwood, composite, or eco-friendly materials. Select colors and finishes that fit your room. Shutters can be made to fit any window size or shape, including quarter-circle and sunburst arches. You decide if you want inside or outside mounts.

You can also pick louver sizes, like 2.5”, 3.5”, or 4.5”. Choose where to put the tilt rod—center or rear-mounted. Some shutters offer motorized controls, so you can open and close them with a remote. Sunburst arch shutters let you adjust each louver by hand. These choices help you get the look and function you want for your window.

• Materials: hardwood, composite, faux-wood

• Colors and finishes: many choices

• Custom fit: exact size and shape for your window

• Mount options: inside or outside

• Louver sizes: 2.5”, 3.5”, 4.5”

• Tilt rod placement: center or rear

• Motorized operation: remote control available

• Shutter styles: louvered or sunburst arches

Note: Custom shutters cost more and take longer to install, but they give you the best fit and style for your arched window.

Blinds

Pros and Cons

Blinds offer a flexible way to cover your arched window. You can choose from many styles and materials, which helps you match your room’s look. Blinds designed for arched windows, such as ADJUST-A-VIEW® and SOFT ARCHES™, let you control light and privacy with ease. You can open, close, or adjust them to get the amount of sunlight you want. Motorized and cordless options make it simple to use, especially if your window is high up.

You get a clear view when you open the blinds. This is different from shutters or fixed shades, which block much of the outside. Blinds also help protect your room from UV rays and can improve energy efficiency. You can pick fabrics that filter light or block it out completely.

However, some blinds may not cover the top arch, which can reduce privacy. Custom blinds and motorized systems cost more than standard options. You may find installation and cleaning harder because of the curved shape. Hard-arched blinds sometimes look mismatched and less elegant. If you want full darkness, you might need to add blackout blinds or side channels.

Tip: Custom-made blinds fit your arched window perfectly and give you more control over light and privacy, but you should plan for higher costs and careful installation.

Here is a quick look at the pros and cons:

Wood Blinds

Wood blinds add a classic and rich look to your arched window. You can choose from basswood, bamboo, or other high-quality materials. These blinds last a long time and resist wear. Custom stains and finishes let you match your blinds to your room’s style. Wood blinds work well in both traditional and modern homes.

You can rotate the slats to control light and privacy. Palladian shelves help you mount wood blinds securely and make your window look more elegant. Custom wood blinds fit the arch shape, so you get a seamless look.

• Wood blinds provide a warm, natural feel.

• They offer strong durability and resist fading.

• You can pick finishes that match your décor.

• The timeless style fits many home designs.

• Slats give you control over sunlight and privacy.

Note: Wood blinds for arched windows cost more and need careful fitting, but they give you lasting beauty and strong performance.

Shades

Pros and Cons

Shades are a modern way to cover your arched window. You can pick from many styles and colors. This helps you match your room. Many shades do not have cords, so they are safe for kids and pets. Some shades use motors. You can move them with a remote or set a timer. This is helpful for windows that are hard to reach.

Shades give you more privacy and block sunlight. They help stop UV rays from hurting your furniture and floors. Custom shades fit the curve of your arched window. This keeps the pretty shape.

But shades have some problems. The fabric can rip easier than blinds or shutters. Cleaning is hard, especially with motor parts. Sometimes you need a pro to clean or fix them.

Tip: Pick shades if you want easy use, safety, and a custom fit for your arched window. But be gentle with them.

Main advantages of shades for arched windows:

• Easy to use with motors and remotes

• Cordless design keeps kids and pets safe

• Custom fit for special shapes

• More privacy and sun protection

• Stops UV rays from hurting your home

Main disadvantages:

• Not as strong as blinds

• Harder to clean, often needs a pro

Cellular and Roller Shades

Cellular and roller shades are both good for arched windows. Cellular shades have a honeycomb shape that traps air. This keeps your room warm in winter and cool in summer. They also block UV rays. You can pick from many colors and textures. You can also choose how much light comes in.

Roller shades use fabric that rolls up at the top. They look simple and work well for small arched windows. Roller shades cost less than cellular shades. They come in many colors and patterns. But they do not keep heat in as well. They may not fit every arched window.

Custom shades for arched windows cost more than regular ones. Motorized shades cost extra but are easier to use. Both types work best if a pro installs them.

Drapery

Pros and Cons

Drapery is a classic way to cover arched windows. You can pick from many fabrics, colors, and patterns. Drapes make your room look taller and more fancy. Curved rods and flowing panels show off the window’s shape. Drapery is good if you want more privacy or a softer look. You can let light in or block it with thick fabric. Decorative rods and valances help show the curve.

Pros of drapery for arched windows:

• Covers the whole window and makes rooms look taller and fancier

• Gives you lots of choices in fabric, color, and style

• Lets you control how much privacy and light you have

• Shows off the window’s shape and makes it stand out

• Adds a soft feel and helps block outside noise

Cons of drapery for arched windows:

• Needs careful work to fit the arch shape

• Installing can be hard, especially at the top

• It can be tough to balance light and privacy

• Custom designs often need a pro, which costs more

• You may need to use other coverings too

Tip: Thick drapery can help block sound and keep your room warmer and quieter.

Roman Shades

Roman shades are a stylish and useful choice for arched windows. You can have them made to fit the curve, so the window keeps its special look. Roman shades fold up neatly and do not need extra rods. You can choose from many fabrics, colors, and patterns. Some block light, while others let some light in. Cordless and motorized options make them safe and easy.

Roman shades let you control light and privacy. You can use them with drapes for more style and warmth. Their folding design keeps the arch shape easy to see and adds a cozy look to any room.

Note: Roman shades work well in living rooms, kitchens, and entryways. They fit many styles and help keep your home warm and comfy all year.

Comparison

Quick Reference

It helps to see how shutters, blinds, shades, and drapery compare for arched windows. This table shows their main features in a simple way:

Shutters and cellular shades give you the most control over light and privacy. Blinds are a good middle choice but might not cover the whole arch. Drapery makes the window look soft and is good for showing off the shape.

Choosing the Best Option

When you pick a covering for your arched window, think about these things:

• Check the shape and size of your arch. Some coverings fit certain shapes better.

• Decide how much sunlight you want. Shutters and cellular shades block more light. Blinds and drapery let in more sun.

• Think about privacy. If your window faces a busy street, shutters or shades give you more privacy.

• See how easy it is to clean and how long it will last. Shutters and cellular shades usually last longer and need less cleaning.

• Pick a style that matches your room. Roman shades or custom shutters look good in both modern and classic rooms.

Tip: Many people like simple styles and mixing different coverings. You can use cellular shades with drapery for a nice look and more use.

You can also use more than one kind of covering. For example, put blinds on the bottom and a soft fabric on the arch. This way, you get both style and function. Always measure your window carefully or ask a pro for help. The right choice will make your arched window look great and work well for you.

Choosing the right arched window covering depends on your needs. Shutters last the longest and save the most energy, but cost more at first. Shades offer many styles and good insulation. Blinds cost less but do not last as long. Use this table to compare:

Tip: Think about your room’s light, privacy, and climate. Ask a pro for help to get the best fit and look for your home.