6 Best Ideas for Basement Window Coverings

So, are you tired of your basement feeling dark and damp? Get some window coverings! They can truly change the entire ambiance!

Finding the perfect window coverings isn't just about aesthetics, even more so when they're for the basement! You should also consider privacy, light control, and the material's ability to handle the often damp basement environment. But don't worry, we've got you covered! Below, you'll find some tips on choosing basement window coverings that will help you make your space both stylish and functional!

Key Takeaways

• Basement windows require coverings that balance privacy and natural light. Since basements tend to be humid and poorly ventilated, it's important to choose durable, moisture-resistant materials. Additionally, energy-efficient coverings can help insulate the space.
• It can be difficult to find window treatments that provide both privacy and natural light. Options like Magic's retractable solar shades and thermal blinds, as well as top-down/bottom-up shades, allow for flexible light control while maintaining some degree of privacy.
• Design tricks such as using light-filtering materials, extending curtain rods beyond the window frame, and installing mirrors can create the illusion of a larger, brighter basement.
• If you have a window well, it's important to choose a window well cover wisely, as it will affect the amount of natural light and fresh air that gets into your basement.

6 Best Basement Window Covering Ideas

Before we discuss some window treatment options for your basement, let's talk about what makes basement window treatments different from those in the rest of your home:

• Moisture resistance. Basements are more humid, and they usually don't get enough natural light and ventilation. This is why they are more prone to mold growth. Therefore, it's important to choose window coverings made of moisture-resistant materials.
• The room's purpose. For example, if you've converted your basement into a home theater, you can certainly sacrifice natural light and go straight for blackout blinds or shades. If it's a basement bedroom, you undoubtedly need window treatments made of light-filtering materials. If you're using your basement as a laundry room, you can go for faux wood blinds or aluminum mini-blinds as they resist moisture and are low-maintenance.
• Egress requirements. Every basement used as a living space requires an egress window, which serves as an escape route during emergencies. So make sure the window coverings provide easy access to the window opening and can be easily opened and closed.
• Window size and shape. If your basement window has a unique shape, your options for window coverings may be limited.
• Privacy and natural light. It can be quite difficult to find window coverings that provide both complete privacy and allow natural light in. Most of the time, you should choose either complete privacy or natural light; otherwise, you'll have to compromise on one of these or install two types of window coverings.
• Energy efficiency. Basement windows must be energy-efficient, especially if the space is used as a living space. Not all window treatments are made of insulating materials. If insulation is a priority, you should consider this aspect.
• Installation requirements. If you do not want to spend a lot of money on installation, go for a DIY window covering or buy a window treatment you can install yourself.

Theory aside, here are six basement window treatment ideas and tips!

1. Window Treatments to Brighten Up the Basement

If you prioritize natural light in your basement, there are plenty of options you can go for. Here are some to consider:

• Light-filtering shades and sheer curtains allow natural light to diffuse beautifully, creating an airy feel while maintaining privacy. You can choose lighter colors as they reflect more light, making the space feel open and inviting.
• Top-down, bottom-up shades are great for slightly larger basement windows. They allow you to let in natural light from the top while keeping the bottom covered for privacy.
• Roman shades or roller blinds can serve as excellent window coverings for basement windows, especially if they're white, beige, or light gray, as these colors can brighten up the room.
• You can also make your own DIY window coverings with light-filtering materials. You'll need a piece of fabric sewn with pockets at the top and bottom, as well as two tension rods. Insert two tension rods into the pockets and fix them at the top and bottom of the window recess.

2. Window Treatments for Privacy in Basements

If privacy is a priority, you can choose among the following options:

• Faux wood blinds. They are durable, moisture-resistant, and look like real wood, thus being perfect for basements with a rustic design. They can be lined with a blackout fabric to provide complete privacy. When you need some natural light, you can simply roll them up.
• Shutters. This is a slightly more expensive window treatment idea, but it's definitely worth the investment! Shutters offer a classic, polished look while handling humidity well. They ensure complete privacy and enhance security. Shutters can also be opened to let natural light in.
• Privacy window film. This window treatment is applied directly to the glass, which means that it also blocks views, so you basically won't be able to see too much through your basement windows. However, privacy window films usually don't offer complete privacy at night. You may require other window treatments for that.

3. Privacy and Natural Light with Magic Shades

If you need complete privacy in your basement, as well as plenty of natural light during the day, Magic has the perfect solution! Our shades and blinds are fully retractable, so you can install both of them to balance privacy and natural light perfectly.

Magic's solar shades are made from a semi-transparent material that blocks heat, keeping your basement cool, all while letting plenty of natural light in and still enjoying some degree of privacy. Our thermal blinds, on the other hand, are made from an opaque material that blocks light completely and provides 100% privacy, at the same time improving energy efficiency.

Because our window coverings are fully retractable, you can open the solar shades during the day and switch to the thermal blinds at night. This way, your basement windows are dressed up every day, year-round!

4. Moisture-resistant Window Treatments

If you prioritize moisture-resistant coverings for your basement windows, you should go for window treatments that are made of vinyl, aluminum, or faux wood.

• Mini blinds made of aluminum
• Faux wood blinds
• Venetian blinds
• Plantation shutters

Moreover, since we're speaking of high humidity and, implicitly, mold growth, it's important to make sure that the window coverings can be opened fully so they don't block the window opening. Since basement windows are usually small, it's extremely important to have the entire opening clear to allow plenty of fresh air in, which is important if you want to prevent mold growth.

5. Window Covering Tricks to Create the Illusion of Space

Low ceilings? Tiny, awkward windows that don't seem to fit? No problem! There are some design tricks you can try to make your basement feel less cramped!

Firstly, shop for curtain rods that can be extended beyond the window frame - this will make the window appear wider. Secondly, you can hang long drapes closer to the ceiling - this will create an illusion of height. If you don't prefer curtains, go for vertical blinds! They're made of thin horizontal slats that can extend below the window and thus make it appear larger.

Thirdly, you can use tall shutters to make windows seem larger than they really are. You can even install fake window treatments directly on the drywall. For example, you can install Roman shades over the window and on both sides of the window - this will make it look like there are three windows when, in fact, there's only one!

Last but not least - install mirrors! This is a simple solution but also an incredibly effective one! You can install mirrors just above or below the window and surround them with the same window trim - as if the mirrors were part of the window unit! And speaking of window trim - when chosen wisely, it can make small basement windows appear much larger!

6. Window Well Covers

If you've picked a basement window covering, it's time to think of your window well! A window well is a recess in the ground created for windows that are below ground level. They need to be covered to prevent water damage and dirt buildup. But the window well cover you choose doesn't only affect that - it also affects how much light and fresh air enters your basement.

For example, plastic window well covers are designed to let as much light into your basement as possible. They're usually completely transparent and can be flat or domed. If you choose a plastic window well cover, you should go for an option that can be easily removed to let fresh air into your basement.

You can also go for metal window well covers. They are great for natural light and ventilation but don't protect against water buildup, so you'll have to connect your window well to a drainage system.

Another excellent window well cover material is polycarbonate. Custom-fit polycarbonate covers are tailored to your exact window well dimensions. This ensures a snug, secure fit, enhancing functionality, appearance, and safety. Moreover, polycarbonate diffuses light more evenly, and some of these covers have built-in vents to allow fresh air circulation.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best way to cover basement windows?

The best way to cover basement windows is to choose moisture-resistant window coverings that ensure privacy and allow natural light in. You can go for faux wood blinds, Magic's solar shades and thermal blinds, plantation shutters, curtains, or mini blinds.

What is the best window treatment for a basement window?

You should choose the best window treatment for a basement window based on your priorities. If you prioritize privacy, you can install window film, blackout blinds, or shutters. If you prioritize natural light, you can install curtains, Magic's solar shades, or roller blinds.

What is the best style of window for a basement?

Awning, sliding, and casement window styles are the best for basements. They are easy to operate and can be opened for ventilation.

How do I keep cold air out of my basement windows?

To keep cold air out of your basement windows, replace their weatherstripping and caulking and install energy-efficient window treatments. If your window is old, it may be worth it to replace it altogether, as it will help you save money on energy bills and prevent water damage.

How can I make my basement window more attractive?

To make your basement window more attractive, you can install window trim around it, decorate it with curtains and/or other window treatments, install mirrors around the window, and install shelves with plants on the surrounding walls.

What are the best materials for basement window coverings?

The most effective materials for basement window coverings are advanced thermoplastics, aluminum, and synthetic fabrics, all of which resist humidity effectively.

How can I improve airflow and reduce humidity in my basement?

To improve airflow and reduce humidity in your basement, consider installing adjustable slats in mini blinds and louvered panels in shutters, along with applying moisture-resistant treatments. These measures will enhance ventilation and mitigate dampness effectively.