How to Choose Curtains for Common American House & Window Types?
Whether it is a single-family home, townhouse, Condo or apartment, its unique architectural style and window structure are the core elements that need to be considered when choosing curtains. At Baijitextile Curtains, we specialize in custom-making the perfect curtains for your specific needs. In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to choose curtains based on common American house types and their corresponding window styles.
Understanding Common American House Types and Their Windows
Accurately analyzing the spatial attributes and architectural features of a house (including window structure) is a prerequisite for selecting residential curtains. The functional requirements and decorative effects of windows in different living styles need to complement each other.
1. Single-Family Homes
As the predominant housing form in the US, single-family homes constitute approximately 67% of all housing units. These standalone houses commonly feature diversified window types requiring specialized curtains for home solutions:
Double-hung windows: Featuring dual vertically sliding sashes, this iconic design dominates traditional American homes.
Casement windows: With side-hinged operation and energy efficiency advantages, their aerodynamic opening mechanism suits modern aesthetics.
Bay windows: Characterized by angular projections and multi-panel compositions, these architectural elements demand custom curtains to resolve spatial challenges.
Picture windows: Fixed panoramic viewing portals that provide expansive views and requiring precise measurements for optimal light control.
Given the versatile window configurations in single-family homes, custom curtains prove critical for achieving both functional compliance and architectural style synchronization. Bespoke drapery allows dimensional customization for irregular window types while enhancing residential character through fabric patterning and hardware coordination.
Curtain Tips for Single-Family Homes:
Double-Hung Windows
Prioritize rod-pocket headings or grommet-top drapes with smooth glide mechanisms.
Opt for lightweight fabrics maintaining 150+ cycles/year operation durability.
Recommend weighted hem designs(minimum 200g/m²) for stable vertical movement.
Bay Windows
Implement custom-curved curtain tracks with 15-25° angular adapters.
Multiple panels configuration: Recommend a 1.5:1 width-to-window ratio for balanced coverage.
Floor-length curtains: Pair with 2-3cm floor clearance to prevent fabric abrasion.
Picture Windows
Daylight Solution: Sheer curtains with 30-50% UV filtration (recommended 300-350 GSM fabric density).
Night Solution: Blackout curtains using triple-weave construction (achieving 99% light blockage).
Installation Tip: Integrate a magnetic side-seal system to switch seamlessly between view preservation and privacy mode.
2. Townhouses
As multi-level attached dwellings constituting 6% of US new construction (per NAHB), typically found in urban or suburban areas, townhouses present unique fenestration challenges with front/back window clusters and occasional bay window protrusions or smaller side windows. Implement these engineering-grade solutions:
Curtain Tips for Townhouses:
Curtain Tips for Townhouses:
Vertical Zonal Treatment
Ground Floor: Use full-height curtains (recommended 9-10 feet long) with thick blackout liners for a polished, elegant look.
Upper Levels: Use short, casual café-style curtains (24"-36" long) made of durable, sun-safe polyester-cotton fabric.
Transition between floors with coordinated curtain rod finishes (e.g., matte black iron → brushed nickel)
Light-Filtering Curtains
Select privacy-grade light diffusion fabrics (45-55% openness factor)
Implement dual-layer systems:
• Inner layer: 90% UV-blocking fabric to protect furniture from sun damage.
• Outer layer: Stylish see-through decorative sheer fabric that dims harsh sunlight.
Bay Window
Deploy curved track systems with 120°-150° radius adaptability
Multiple curtain panels configuration:
• Center panel: 1.2:1 width ratio
• Flanking panels: 0.8:1 ratio with weighted chain hems
For angular bays (≥110°), recommend magnetic corner connectors for seamless drape alignment
Technical Compliance
All treatments must meet NFPA701 drapery self-extinguishing flame retardant standards.
Rod systems require 1.5x wider than window (e.g., 72" window → 108" track)
Use eco-friendly curtain weights (no toxic chemicals).