About Opacity and Window Coverings
Choosing the right window treatment means selecting the right opacity level for the fabric. However, at Altra Home Décor serving the greater Phoenix area, many of our customers are a bit lost on what all the different levels mean and aren’t sure they’ll choose the “right” level. That’s why we like to show people the fabrics and help them understand the pros and cons of each. If you’re stuck questioning the “right” opacity, be sure to contact one of our representatives today!
Opacity Levels
Opacity refers to how much light goes through the fabric. A looser weave lets more light through—but it also allows people to see in. Other factors can determine opacity, including fabric type and color. To help you choose the right opacity, here are some definitions:
- Sheer fabrics let the most light in the room while maintaining a view that has a soft focus. They can help reduce glare but don’t help much with privacy.
- Semi-sheer fabrics let in some light but less than sheers, and they don’t give as much view-through. With semi-sheers, you still won’t get much privacy.
- Semi-opaque fabrics let enough light through to brighten the room a little, but you won’t have a view. That said, they offer more privacy.
- Opaque/room-darkening fabrics block almost all light and provide great privacy. On the other hand, if you want natural light, you have to open the treatment.
- Blackout fabrics block light almost entirely, and they provide complete privacy.
Opacity in Each Room
To select the right opacity, take into account the room’s privacy and light needs. If you’re not concerned about someone seeing into the space and you want lots of light, choose sheer or semi-sheer fabrics—this might be a good choice in a living or family room or even a dining room. In rooms where you want more privacy and darkness, such as bedrooms, bathrooms, or media rooms, select semi-opaque, opaque, or blackout fabrics. To see these options in person and understand how they work, be sure to contact one of our specialists.
Various Opacities in the Greater Phoenix, Peoria AZ Area
Altra Home Decor is your source for window treatments, custom drapery, flooring, and more! We serve the greater Phoenix area, including Peoria, Sun City West, Glendale, and Scottsdale, with a showroom in Surprise. Stop by our locally owned store to view our full-size window treatment displays and sample books. Contact us today to schedule an in-home design consultation!
