Basement windows can be a real headache when it comes to picking out the right window treatments. Unlike the rest of your house, these below-grade windows struggle with not just limited sunlight, but also moisture, privacy, and odd sizing. You really have to think carefully about what materials will actually hold up down there.
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The trick to picking basement window treatments? You’ve got to juggle moisture resistance, let in as much light as possible, and still keep things private. And don’t forget—materials need to survive humidity without turning moldy. Basement windows aren’t like the ones upstairs; you have to put durability and moisture control at the top of your list, but you still want the space to look good and function well.
Your best window treatment will depend on a few things: the size and spot of your window, what you use the room for, and how much privacy you want. Maybe you’re setting up a home office, an entertainment area, or even a guest room. If you understand what makes basements different, you’ll have a much easier time choosing the right materials, styles, and installation methods that’ll actually last.
Understanding Basement Windows
Basement windows aren’t like your regular windows—they’re usually smaller, placed in odd spots, and have to deal with some pretty tough conditions. These quirks mean you have to think differently when you pick coverings.
Common Basement Window Types
Most basement windows are on the small side, usually between 12-24 inches tall and 30-36 inches wide. Decorating them can be tricky since they’re not like the big windows upstairs.
Casement windows swing open with a crank. They’re great for letting in air, but their swinging motion can limit which treatments you can use.
Double-hung windows slide up and down. You can use most types of treatments with them, and you’ll find these in a lot of newer basements.
Hopper windows are hinged at the bottom and tilt in from the top. People like them in basements because they let in air but keep rain out.
Egress windows are the big ones you need for basement bedrooms (code requires them). They’re at least 24 inches tall and 20 inches wide, and they have to open up enough for someone to climb out.
Some basements have those tiny porthole windows, either round or rectangular. Their small size makes them tough to dress up.
Challenges Unique to Basement Windows
Basement windows deal with higher humidity than the rest of your house. That moisture can warp wood, cause mold, and make some materials fall apart.
Because these windows sit at or below ground level, privacy is a bigger deal. People walking by can see right in, which isn’t ideal.
You don’t get much sunlight through small basement windows. You’ll want treatments that let in as much light as possible but still look good and keep things private.
Odd shapes and sizes make it tough to find off-the-shelf window treatments that fit. Sometimes you need custom options or a creative workaround.
Basements can get chilly or hot fast. You’ll want window treatments that insulate without making the space darker.
Importance of Proper Window Treatments
When you pick the right basement window treatments, you make your home safer. Covered windows keep prying eyes out and make it harder for someone to see what’s inside.
If you go with humidity-resistant materials, you help control moisture. The right coverings stop condensation, which can turn into mold or mildew if you’re not careful.
Insulating window treatments help keep your basement comfortable. Since basement windows often leak air, good coverings make a real difference for temperature control.
The right window coverings can turn a cold, dark basement into a space you actually want to use. Whether it’s a home office or a bedroom, proper treatments make it more inviting.
Letting in as much natural light as possible is key down there. You want to control the light throughout the day but still keep things private.
Key Considerations for Selecting Basement Window Coverings
Picking out basement window coverings isn’t just about style. You need to think about moisture, how much light you get, the exact measurements, and what you actually like.
Assessing Light Needs and Privacy
Most basements are starved for sunlight, so you need to balance privacy with getting the most out of what little light you have. Think about how you use the space before you decide.
Light Control Options:
- Sheer materials let in a lot of light, but don’t offer much privacy
- Privacy lining keeps people from seeing in while still letting in soft light
- Blackout lining is for when you want it pitch dark—perfect for bedrooms or media rooms
Privacy needs change depending on where your basement windows face. If you’re at street level or close to a neighbor, you’ll want more coverage.
If you use your basement as an office, adjustable options are handy. You can tweak the light throughout the day.
Managing Humidity and Moisture
Moisture is a constant battle in basements. High humidity can ruin some materials and turn your coverings into a science experiment.
Moisture-Resistant Materials:
- Faux wood blinds don’t warp or get ruined by moisture
- Metal blinds are super durable in damp spaces
- Synthetic fabrics usually handle humidity better than natural ones
Skip natural materials like cotton or wool. They soak up water and can start to smell or grow mildew.
Give your window coverings a little breathing room. Leaving space between the fabric and the glass helps air circulate and keeps things drier.
If your basement floods or is really damp, go for options you can remove and clean easily.
Measuring Basement Windows Accurately
Basement windows are rarely standard size, so you need to measure carefully. Most are between 12-24 inches tall and 30-36 inches wide, but always double-check.
Measurement Steps:
- Measure the width at the top, middle, and bottom
- Use the narrowest width
- Measure the height at the left, center, and right
- Go with the shortest height
Watch out for pipes, ductwork, or anything else that could get in the way. You might need custom solutions or a different way to mount your treatments.
If your window wells are deep, some treatments might not fit. You may need longer brackets or special hardware.
Take a quick photo of your window if you’re asking a pro for help. It’s easier than trying to describe a weird setup.
Budget and Style Preferences
You can spend anywhere from $50 for something basic to a few hundred bucks for custom basement window coverings. It’s smart to know your budget before you start shopping.
Budget-Friendly Options:
- Basic roller shades
- Simple panel curtains
- Standard venetian blinds
Higher-End Choices:
- Custom cellular shades
- Motorized treatments
- Layered window systems
Let the room’s purpose guide your style. Finished family rooms look great with decorative treatments, but utility spaces just need something easy to clean.
Quality materials might cost more upfront, but they last longer and perform better. Sometimes it’s worth it.
Try to match your window treatments to the vibe of your basement. Clean lines work for modern spaces, while traditional basements can handle more detailed looks.
Best Basement Window Treatments by Function
What you do in your basement really determines which window treatments make sense. Privacy, light, and entertainment all call for different solutions.
Options for Enhanced Privacy
If your basement windows are at or below ground level, privacy is a must. Mini blinds are great for this—they have adjustable slats you can tilt to block views but still let in some daylight.
Plantation shutters are another solid choice. Their louvers close tight for privacy and they’re better at handling moisture than most fabrics. You can tweak them throughout the day depending on how much privacy you want.
Cellular shades make a solid wall when closed. They’re perfect for bedrooms or offices. Go with light-filtering for privacy during the day, or blackout if you want total coverage.
Roller shades in room-darkening or blackout fabrics block all views when you drop them down. They sit close to the window and don’t take up much room, which is nice for small basement windows.
Solutions for Maximizing Natural Light
You can’t have too much sunlight in a basement. Light-filtering cellular shades spread sunlight around the room and soften it up. Their honeycomb design lets in light without making it harsh.
Sheer roller shades let in the most light while still giving you a bit of privacy. They’re best if your windows don’t look out onto a busy street or a neighbor’s yard.
Try mounting your window treatments higher and wider than the frame. Makes the window look bigger and lets in more light at the edges. Light colors—think white, cream, or pale gray—bounce more light into the room.
Top-down/bottom-up cellular shades let you open the top for sunlight while keeping the bottom closed for privacy. Handy, right?
Light Control for Entertainment Spaces
If you’ve got a media room, you want it dark. Blackout shades block almost all incoming light, so they’re perfect for movie nights.
Blackout blinds with overlapping slats get rid of those annoying light gaps. If you want it really dark, look for ones with light-blocking side channels.
Layering helps too. Put up blackout cellular shades as your main layer, then add panels or valances for a bit of style. This way, you can have it pitch dark or just cozy.
Motorized options are worth considering. With remote-controlled blackout shades, you can adjust the light without leaving your seat. Some even close automatically when you switch on the projector or TV.
Top Window Covering Types and Materials
Basement windows really need materials that can handle moisture and fit smaller spaces. Different blind styles have their own pros and cons for privacy, light, and style.
Mini Blinds and Aluminum Mini Blinds
Mini blinds are probably the most affordable option for basement windows. The 1-inch horizontal slats fit narrow openings well.
Aluminum mini blinds are a solid pick for basements. They don’t care about humidity—the metal won’t warp, crack, or get moldy.
You can tilt the slats to control light and airflow, which helps keep moisture from building up. When you pull them up, they hardly take up any space.
Key benefits:
- Super affordable
- Easy to wipe down with a damp cloth
- Tons of color choices
- Installation’s a breeze
Darker colors hide dust better, but white or light colors help bounce light around. Most aluminum mini blinds last five to seven years if you take care of them.
Faux Wood Blinds for Durability
Faux wood blinds give you the look of wood, but without the risk of moisture damage. They use synthetic materials or composite wood that doesn’t swell or rot.
These slats are usually 2 inches wide, so they look a bit more high-end compared to aluminum. They’re tough—even in humid basements, they don’t warp.
Thicker slats mean better insulation. That helps with energy bills and keeps out noise. They feel sturdy and operate smoothly.
Material options:
- PVC plastic
- Composite wood fibers
- Advanced thermoplastics
Most faux wood blinds come with a three to five-year warranty. They’re pricier than aluminum, but cheaper than real wood. Just wipe them down with mild soap and water.
They look best on medium or large windows. Small windows can look a bit cramped with big slats.
Wood Blinds for a Classic Look
Wood blinds definitely look the most elegant, but you have to be careful with them in a basement. Real wood can warp or crack if it gets too humid.
Go for hardwoods like basswood or oak—they handle moisture better. Stay away from softwoods like pine, which soak up water. Sealed or painted finishes help, too.
Natural wood grain adds warmth to a chilly basement. Wood blinds work best in finished spaces, like a living room or office.
Maintenance:
- Dust every week with a microfiber cloth
- Check for warping now and then
- Try to keep humidity under 55%
- Refinish every few years
They cost a lot more than faux wood—sometimes double or triple. Only use them if your basement is well-ventilated and climate-controlled.
Cedar or teak are good picks if you want wood that naturally resists moisture.
Vertical Blinds for Large Openings
Vertical blinds are made for big basement windows or sliding doors. The slats hang from a track and you can rotate them to control the light.
They handle wide windows better than horizontal blinds. Just slide the slats to one side for full access—great for walkouts or egress windows.
Because the slats hang down, they don’t collect dust as much as horizontal ones. Gravity keeps them straight.
Best for:
- Sliding patio doors
- Wide windows
- Windows over four feet wide
Pick vinyl or PVC for moisture resistance. Fabric looks nice, but it can get moldy in a basement. Most vertical blinds use 3.5-inch slats.
The track system needs to be mounted securely. If you’re not handy, you might want to call in a pro.
Fabric-Based Treatments: Shades and Draperies
Fabric window treatments can really warm up a basement and add some style, all while helping with light and privacy. They’ll work in humid spaces if you pick the right fabrics and keep up with maintenance.
Roman Shades for Soft Texture
Roman shades give basement spaces a clean, tailored look. They fold up neatly when you raise them and lie flat when down.
These shades let in natural light while keeping your privacy. Pick light-filtering fabrics for a soft glow or blackout materials if you’re setting up a media room.
Best fabric choices for basements:
- Synthetic blends that resist moisture
- Treated cotton for mold resistance
- Polyester fabrics for easy cleaning
You can mount Roman shades inside or outside the window frame. Inside mounting creates a streamlined look, while outside mounting can make small windows seem bigger.
Cordless options look tidier and keep things safer, especially for kids or pets. Adjusting them daily feels pretty effortless.
Roller Shades for Modern Style
Roller shades bring a sleek, modern vibe to basement windows. You can roll them up completely to let in light or lower them for total coverage.
Their flat profile fits right in with contemporary designs. You get precise light control without adding bulk or clutter.
Popular roller shade fabrics:
- Solar shades: Block UV rays but keep your view
- Blackout fabrics: Block all light for entertainment spaces
- Light-filtering materials: Let in soft, diffused daylight
Motorized roller shades make life easier with hard-to-reach windows. Just use a remote or your phone.
The simple design means fewer parts to break down in humid basements. Dust them off now and then to keep them fresh.
Draperies for Decorative Appeal
Draperies bring the most decorative flair to basement windows. They add color, pattern, and a bit of visual weight to spaces that can feel a little stark.
Full-length panels can make short basement windows look taller. That helps balance out rooms with lower ceilings.
Basement-friendly drapery features:
- Moisture-resistant fabrics like polyester or treated cotton
- Machine-washable materials for easy care
- Thermal backing to help with insulation
Hang draperies higher and wider than the window frame. This trick makes the window look bigger and lets in more light.
Layer draperies with blinds or shades for extra flexibility. Use draperies for style, and blinds for dialing in the light.
Pick medium to heavy-weight fabrics that drape nicely and stand up to humidity. Steer clear of delicate silks or untreated natural fibers in basements.
Special Window Covering Ideas and Custom Solutions
Basement windows can be tricky because of their size, placement, or purpose. Smart tech and layered treatments can turn even the most awkward basement spaces into comfortable, usable rooms.
Treatments for Small Basement Windows
Small basement windows need a bit of creativity to balance function and style. Mini blinds work well since they barely take up any space when open.
Roller shades are another solid pick for compact windows. They look clean and flat when down, and vanish when rolled up.
If your windows are up high, try motorized options so you don’t have to reach awkwardly. Custom-cut treatments make sure even odd-shaped windows get a perfect fit.
Light-colored fabric shades bounce what little natural light you have back into the room. That simple change can make a small basement feel brighter and bigger.
Window film keeps things private but still lets in light. It works especially well for ground-level windows where people might peek inside.
Motorized and Smart Window Coverings
Motorized blinds make it easy to control basement windows that are tough to reach. Just grab a remote or use your phone.
Smart window treatments let you set them to open during the day and close at night, no extra thought needed.
They’re perfect for entertainment spaces where you want to control the light fast. Blackout motorized shades can turn a room into a mini theater in seconds.
Battery-powered options mean you don’t have to worry about wiring. Some even use solar power, recharging from the window light itself.
You can connect smart shades to Alexa or Google Home for voice control. It’s also possible to link them up with your security system for a little extra peace of mind.
Layered and Combined Window Solutions
When you layer different treatments, you get a lot more flexibility for basement window coverings.
Try combining sheer curtains with blackout blinds if you want privacy and different light control options.
Pair Roman shades with decorative valances. It adds some style but still keeps things functional.
If you want your basement to feel more like a real living space, this combo works nicely.
Put shutters over blinds to boost insulation and security. You’ll also get better moisture control and more privacy choices.
Pair window film with fabric treatments. The film gives you privacy during the day, and you can pull the curtains or shades closed when you want total coverage.
Mix faux wood blinds with fabric panels for a look that feels custom and stands up well to basement humidity. This combo really balances durability with a bit of visual appeal.