The Pros and Cons of Ready-Made and Custom Window Treatments

Buying window treatments is an investment. You want them to last before having to replace them again. So what is the difference between ready made and custom window coverings? How do you choose what is right for your home? In this article, we’ll look at the pros and cons of each, what you should consider, and our top 3 favorite window treatments. 

What to Consider

Before diving into all the options, let’s step back for a moment. Ask yourself these questions:

• Aesthetic: What’s your current design style? Is your window covering going to match or are you going for an eclectic approach?
• Placement: What room is the window covering going in? How much sun exposure and humidity does that window experience?
• Texture: Are you looking for something light and airy, or something with more depth and weightiness?
• Features: What features are important to you–energy efficiency, room darkening, privacy? Do you want ease of use or does the user have limited mobility?

Once you define your answers, you'll be better able to decide what type of window covering you want and whether you want ready made or custom window treatments. 

Ready Made vs. Custom Window Treatments

Now let’s break down some of the main differences between ready made and custom window coverings.

• 
  Size: Custom window coverings aren’t made until the exact size of your window is received. Meanwhile, ready made treatments are constructed based on standard window sizes.
• Color Options: Custom window treatment companies typically have more colors and prints to choose from, whereas ready made have more limited options. 
• Product Features: Custom made allows you more control over product features, such as fold style, liner, lift mechanism, and safety options. Ready made doesn’t allow you as much control over these features with their more limited selections. 

The Cost Factor

The reason why many people opt for ready made over custom is because they see the lower price tag. However, you do get what you pay for. Remember, purchasing a window covering is an investment and you have to ask yourself, would you rather pay less up front for lower quality materials that will need to be replaced sooner, or would you rather pay a little more up front for window treatments that will last longer? 

Pros and Cons Breakdown

Want a quick breakdown of the pros and cons of ready made and custom made window coverings? Here you go!

Ready Made Window Covering Pros:

• Available right away; no wait to install
• Offers popular options
• Cheaper price up-front

Ready Made Window Covering Cons:

• Not as many options for types of window treatments to choose from(mostly popular options like blinds); no interior shutters available (these can only be custom made)
• Not as many options for color/pattern
• No custom wood stain matching
• Not as much control over features such as lining, mechanism, or safety options
• May not perfectly fit your window, leading to accidental damage
• You have to install it yourself
• Made from lower quality materials that will need to be replaced faster

Custom Window Covering Pros

• All types of window coverings available to choose from, including interior shutters which are the only window treatment that adds value to your home!
• Seemingly endless options for color/pattern
• Can custom match wood stain that is already in your home
• Full control over features such as lining, mechanism, safety options, fold style, etc.
• Made to perfectly fit your window, which keeps them from getting damaged on accident
• Comes with expert installation so you know it will be hung right the first time
• Made from high quality materials so they last longer and don’t need to be replaced as quickly, meaning they are more cost effective in the long run

Custom Window Covering Cons

• Some wait time–you have to wait for the treatment to be made before it can be installed
• The sheer number of choices may be overwhelming to some
• Higher price up-front

The Bottom Line - What’s Right for You?

So what’s right for you, ready made or custom? That answer to that question is personal, but if you are willing to wait for them to be made to the exact size you need and to pay a little more up front, custom made window coverings are definitely the way to go. They are made to stand the test of time, making them more cost effective long term. 

Ready to Buy Custom?

If you are ready to buy custom and live in the Front Range/Pikes Peak region or Pueblo, Elevated Views is your source for beautiful, long-lasting window coverings! We are dedicated to improving your home or workspace with functional and beautiful window treatments while offering excellent customer service. Our family-owned business offers personalized solutions and an enjoyable experience.

Schedule a free in-home consultation and quote and we’ll bring the showroom to you. Don’t forget to ask about our military, educator, new home, and repeat customer discounts!