Window Coverings for Non-Traditional Windows

Window coverings for non-traditional windows aren’t always the easiest things to find. That’s why you should make your first stop at Budget Blinds of Tempe and Central Phoenix, where every single window covering they carry is fully customized to fit your needs. That means every inch of drapery, every blind slat, and every shade is tailored to fit your windows and your doors. 

Now that you have no limitations, you’re free to explore your dream window coverings. This blog will go beyond the obvious too. We’ll skip the motorized options for windows that are hard to reach, because those are a no-brainer! You just hit a button and they open and close, regardless of how high or how awkward of a reach they are. 

So let’s jump right into our tips for window coverings for non-traditional windows. 

Window Coverings for Skylights

Skylights are beautiful and non-traditional options that let in ample amounts of natural light. However, due to their height and angle, it might seem impossible to find window coverings for them. You may be asking yourself why you would want to cover a skylight — it’s not like anyone can see into the house using them. 

You’d be right. However, skylights let in a lot of light. If you have one in your bedroom, then you may be distracted by streetlights, reflected headlights off cars, or even really bright full moons. They also make it difficult to darken your room during the day if you ever lie down for a nap. Window coverings are the only adjustable options to let you choose how much light gets in or stays out of your bedroom. 

We suggest using cellular shades, also known as honeycomb shades. They’re lightweight and completely customizable to block out as much sunlight as you want. As an added bonus, cellular shades are one of the most energy efficient window coverings too! 

Floor to Ceiling Windows 

Large windows aren’t a problem because of their shape, but rather because of their size. The larger the window, the larger the window covering needs to be. This means it can get pretty heavy pretty quickly. 

The weight of the blind or shade may make it difficult to raise or lower across large windows. Heavier blinds also put excess stress on the cords, which increases the risk of breakage. 

Thankfully, Budget Blinds of Tempe and Central Phoenix has a ton of tricks up our sleeves to ensure your window coverings will be safely installed and working for years to come. 

Upgrading the lift that raises or lowers your shades can help keep them functioning for years. It can also be a problem for some members of your family, such as children or seniors. A continuous loop lift made out of a heavy-duty material makes it easier to lift and lower larger shades. 

Multiple blinds, each with their own set of controls, all mounted on a single headrail, is a great solution as well. Ken Howard, owner for Budget Blinds of Tempe and Central Phoenix, is in charge of a majority of their installations, meaning they personally measure out everything. He takes pride in their business and wants your home to be perfect. 

For example, a set of 3 windows with one large in the middle and two smaller ones on the side would be ordered with the 3-on-1 headrail option with the measurements matching the window divisions.

Or, you can use separate blinds or shades on separate head mounts, and then cover the mounts with one spanning valence! No one will know and it will successfully distribute the weight of your window coverings. 

Of course, you can also opt for the lighter options, such as cellular or roller shades. They can be as wide as you need them to be at a fraction of the weight of blinds or shutters. 

Arched and Angled Windows

Arched windows are notable, attractive, and unique. They also are not as difficult to cover as you may think. Budget Blinds of Tempe and Central Phoenix offers several different types of window treatments that can be made to exactly fit your window opening. 

Cellular shades are available in arches too!  Other popular choices for covering arch windows are pleated shades and composite wood arches. Shutters can also be custom fit for your arched window by speaking with a Budget Blinds design consultant.

Angled windows are less common, but Budget Blinds design consultants can still find the perfect window covering for your home. Anything that opens top-down or bottom-up is limited by their shortest side, so traditional window blinds may not be the best option! Shutters are perfect for these if you want a fitted look. 

Shutters are great options in general for speciality windows. They can be totally customized to fit any window or door. They’re also not limited with how they open and close, because each slat tilts to open — there is no pulling up or down! 

You can also use shutters for other shapes such as ovals, hexagons, half-circles, rake windows and so on. Because of their versatility, shutters are our favorite option for funky-shaped windows.

Mount Your Window Coverings on the Outside of the Frame

If you’re not concerned about covering up the shape of your non-traditional window, then you can always use an outside mount. An outside mount is exactly what it sounds like — your window covering is mounted on the outside of the window frame, instead of inside of it. These are traditionally covered by a valance or cornice and help block out more light. They still fit the window, so don’t worry about them looking clunky or out of place! 


So if you have a non-traditional window, give Budget Blinds of Tempe and Central Phoenix a call. Ken will help you pick out the perfect window covering solution for your home. With him, you know you’ll be in good hands!

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