Page 4 March 22 & April 12, 2026 • www. mcrecord. com • Morrison County Record • Spring Home & Garden
Updating window treatments to let the sun shine in
GREENSHOOT MEDIA
As spring brings longer days and brighter sunshine, many homeowners look for ways to manage natural light and keep indoor spaces comfortable.
Updating window treatments is an easy way to refresh a room while improving energy efficiency. With the right blinds, shades and fabrics, it is possible to enjoy the season’ s sunlight without overheating the home or fading furniture. A few smart installation tips can help get the best results. Choosing the Right Blinds and Shades Spring is a good time to choose window treatments that filter or soften intense sunlight. Light-filtering roller shades are popular because they allow gentle daylight to enter while reducing glare. They come in a variety of colors and patterns, making them a simple way to brighten rooms without sacrificing privacy.
Cellular or honeycomb shades are another strong option. Their layered design traps air and helps insulate windows, keeping indoor spaces cooler during warm afternoons. Many models offer top-down and bottom-up functions that let homeowners control light flow throughout the day.
For homeowners who prefer blinds, faux wood and real wood blinds can provide good light control. Tilting the slats allows sunlight in while protecting furniture and flooring from direct UV exposure. Vertical blinds may work best for sliding doors or large windows since they can easily adjust to changing light angles. Picking Fabrics That Keep Rooms Cooler Window treatment materials play an important role in keeping homes comfortable during spring. Solar shades are designed specifically for UV protection. They block a significant amount of the sun’ s rays while still providing outdoor visibility. These shades are useful in south- or west-facing rooms where afternoon sun is strongest.
Linen, cotton and other breathable fabrics are ideal for curtain panels during warmer months. Sheer curtains can soften bright light and add a fresh seasonal look, especially when paired with a secondary shade that handles UV control. Thermal-backed curtains add insulation and help reduce heat gain, making them a practical choice when temperatures rise.
Color also affects performance. Light-colored fabrics reflect more sunlight, helping rooms stay cooler throughout the day. Darker shades absorb heat and may be better suited for spaces that need additional warmth. Tips for Smooth and Effective Installation Proper installation ensures window treatments work as intended. Measuring windows accurately is essential, especially for inside-mounted shades or blinds. Measure each window individually since sizes can vary even within the same room.
Mounting options matter. Inside mounts create a clean, streamlined look, while outside mounts can
make windows appear larger and block more light around the edges. For rooms that get strong direct sunlight, outside mounts often provide better coverage.
Securely anchor hardware, especially for heavier blinds or layered curtains. If drilling into drywall, using the correct anchors helps avoid sagging brackets. For wider windows, adding a center support bracket can prevent bowing or cracking.
Homeowners may want to consider cordless options; these are safer for households with children or pets and offer a modern, minimal appearance.
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* APR = Annual Percentage Rate. Payment example: A $ 100,000 loan at 5.99 % fixed, 6.192 % APR for 5 years results in 60 monthly payments of $ 1,937.59; $ 19.38 per $ 1000 borrowed. Rates and terms are subject to change without notice. All loans subject to credit approval and membership eligibility. Additional restrictions may apply; not all applicants will qualify. Loan amounts will be determined by income and other factors, including collateral details. The rate shown is the lowest Home Equity Rate available and your rate may be higher. Properties can be 1-4 single family owner and non-owner-occupied homes or land. For Combined Loan-to-Value ratios( CLTV) up to 85 %, Maximum loan amount is $ 500,000. For CLTV up to 90 %, Maximum loan amount is $ 250,000. Maximum CLTV is 90 %. Eligible for homes in Minnesota only. Consumer should contact tax advisor for further information. Closing costs typically range from $ 500 to $ 2,000. Waived closing costs up to $ 500 on home equity applications. Homeowners insurance is required for all 1-4 single family properties. Full appraisal and Junior Title Policy required for loans over 80 % CLTV or exceeding $ 100,000 loan. Federally insured by NCUA. Equal Housing Lender.