Q: Where do I begin?
Making proper window treatment selections is not as simple as you might think. First, establish what you need from your window coverings... whether just for privacy or for looks or both. Window treatments also offer terrific insulation for your home, saving you money on your energy bills.

Now more than ever, you can educate yourself so that you can make the most of your investment. Consider your lifestyle, light issues, privacy needs, budget, how long you'll be in your home, energy needs, as well as the design desired. These are some of the questions that The Fabric Factor can help you answer.

Q: What is a hard treatment?
A hard treatment can refer to shutters, blinds (vertical & horizontal) or shades (pleated, cellular, roller & woven woods). A hard treatment does not mean that products are only available in wood, vinyl or aluminum. On the contrary, many of these products are available in a wide range of fabric options,but all function as either a blind or shade.

Q: What is a soft treatment?
A soft treatment is a window treatment that is fabricated from fabric... a drapery, valance, cornice, Roman Shade or any other treatment involving fabric. These products may be used to frame or top the window. Soft Treatments can be functional & used for privacy, such as traversing drapes or Roman Shades.

Q: What's the difference between a blind and a shade?
A blind generally refers to a slatted treatment that offers light control; a shade is typically a style that operates up and down, either exposing or covering, but not offering as much light control as a blind.

Q: What is meant by custom window coverings?
Custom window treatments are window coverings that are suited specifically to your windows. They are precisely measured, fabricated and installed to fit the size and style of your window and home.

Q: Why are custom window coverings more expensive than store bought?
It's true that custom window coverings cost more than ready-made coverings or made-to-measure products, but they add greater value to your home than any other type of product. They are specially designed for each particular window. Similar to the way that fine clothing reflects your unique personality, custom window coverings are the ultimate expression of your taste and style. Your home is your most important investment, why not have the best for your windows?

Q: May I measure the windows myself?
Yes, you may, but it's not recommended. At The Fabric Factor, one of our representatives will come to your home to precisely measure your windows.

Q: There are so many new window coverings out there that I can't keep them straight. How can I ever make a decision regarding which treatment is right for me?
It all comes down to the function, the look and the budget that you desire. Horizontal blinds provide excellent privacy and light control and work best on standard windows, such as those in a kitchen or laundry room. They are available in a multitude of colors. Vertical blinds likewise provide good privacy and light control, but are more suitable for large-scale windows or patio doors. They come in a virtually limitless array of fabrics as well as in easy-to-care for vinyl. Pleated shades also offer excellent privacy and light control. They provide a soft touch at the window and come in a variety of colors and patterns. Cellular shades are variation of pleated shades, with a honeycomb shape that provides insulation. Draperies, of course, are a popular choice for living rooms and dining rooms. You can layer treatments using a blind or shade for light control and a drapery for aesthetics thus creating a truly customized look. That’s where we come in... please call us for a free consultation. Call us at (757) 498-1536.

Q: I have many different kinds of windows in my home... bay windows, arched, angled and skylights... what choices do you recommend for these types of windows?
Fortunately, we offer many window coverings that work well in these specialty shapes. Please call us for a complimentary consultation and we will help you decide which window covering best suits your unique window needs. Call us at (757) 498-1536.

Q: I like the look of fabric at a window, but I can't really afford it... Do you have any suggestions for a person on a budget?
Try a touch of fabric at the window. Use a valance to soften a horizontal or vertical blind. There are many options, and with a bit of imagination we can make a little bit of fabric go a long way.

Q: I don't want to do the same old thing on my windows. What can I do beyond the traditional pinch-pleated draperies?
The beauty of drapery hardware can allow you to be truly creative. Today's drapery hardware comes in a variety of finishes and styles. You can mix and match rods,rings, and finials to create a one-of-a-kind look. Finial designs today run the gamut, from birds and scrolls to leaves and pineapples.

Not only can you decorate your window, but you can show a little personality, too. We have an excellent selection and would welcome your visit to our showroom in The Rose Hall Shoppes.

Q: What about wood coverings? What are my options?
You can go in any direction from beautiful interior wood shutters to wood blinds in a variety of slat sizes. Many view shutters as a lifetime investment that enhances the value of their home. Solid wood shutters come in a variety of stains and are like fine furniture at your window.

The Fabric Factor, where “we treat windows fashionably” now you can too!