The fact is, curtains can break or make a room, no matter what furniture or artwork you employ. Therefore, choosing the curtains that complement your home design is vital. Apart from creating a stunning effect, they can benefit you differently.
Anyways, now it’s time to get into the core topic. You will get a robust idea at the end. Just go on!
Why Are Curtains So Expensive? –
A proper choice can elevate your interior section. And the estimation of its cost is also crucial. However, unfortunately, it is more than we can think or imagine. Why? Well, the reasons are as follows!
Material
As a consumer, you should consider the material issue as the durability of curtains depends much on that. And for the same reason, the cost is dependent on the material used. Generally, thicker and heavier curtains are more costly than light and thin materials.
Here, the fabric choice matters a lot since the material of the curtains makes up almost the whole product. There are a number of curtain materials with a variety having their pros and cons! So instead of personal preference, you had better take them into account.
Artificial fabrics like viscose and polyester are less expensive than fabrics like silk and linen. So think before you order!
Labor-Intensive Construction
If you look at the hand labor for making curtains, you cannot but agree that it deserves to be costly. It takes a significant amount of time to finalize the products. The makers have to use sewing machines and focus on every small detail!
The curtains made at the major manufacturing plant will be affordable comparatively. They feature a lower price tag. On the contrary, only a true artisan produces hand-made curtains that consumers prefer most. An artisan pays the utmost endeavor to prepare such things. That’s why they become enriched and cost high!
No doubt, this time-worthy effort will make you pay more. Hard to believe? Then ask those who have tried to make it on their own. Some stuff such as silk is seriously tough to deal with, okay!
If you want to have a safe, long-lasting item, you should approach these professionals. They will provide you with reliable products, and you will pay a handsome amount in return. Simple.
The manufacturers send them to stores only when they are sure of the utmost safety and quality. They don’t compromise on this at all! And that rigid labor and high quality result in a high price tag.
Customization
Many consumers want to customize their curtains, and it is trendy. Perhaps, you are also thinking the same! Listen, all sorts of curtains do not match all spaces. Consumers with abnormal windows and specific tastes tend to customize curtains according to their preferences. Designers are also aware that many consumers crave special windows for curtains.
When people urge to add a chosen pattern or embroidery, the makers charge higher as it requires lots of effort, time, exclusive materials, and planning. So be sure that you will have to pay that way.
Silk
Silk is not only a challenging thing but also pricey. Per yard, its cost ranges from $30 to $40. Apart from that, it has a tendency to wear and tear.
In the winter, silk-made curtains help you retain heat for your room. And in the summer, it does not keep out the sun and heat. Silk is one of the top consumer choices. Apart from looking impressive, it feels fantastic. Therefore, it makes people pay more.
Velvet
Velvel is one of the most reliable things for curtains due to its energy efficiency. It is heavy and thick. Its installation is challenging and costly because of its additional weight.
Velvet gives a soft feel that makes viewers appreciate it. It is one sort of woven tufted fabric. You will find an even distribution of cut threads along with a short dense pile.
Cotton & Polyester
These are also people’s favorite due to moderate pricing and high breathability. However, when these are used in curtains, they impact the ultimate price. Especially, cotton gives your curtain a soft, fluffy shape. Thus, despite not being luxurious such as velvet or silk, it turns curtains costly.
Lace
It is an apt choice for classic, family-oriented designs. Consumers love this because of its pretty, soft, and feminine look. Though it has limited potential in respect of minimizing heat, sunlight, or noise, it provides consumers with a small amount of additional privacy. As a result, it makes curtains pricey.
Size
Yeah, the size also matters. You must have enough space to store them. Curtains are big usually, no matter you want your curtain to reach the floor or only the bottom of the window.
Though you can find curtains with one panel, most of them come in two panels. And these factors make them costly.
For the size, it becomes challenging for the designers to prepare them. Also, they are difficult to transport and install! Unless you have a low ceiling, you can definitely go for a longer one.
Generally, we see three lengths in curtains. These are- 84”, 96”, and 108”. Naturally, larger ones are more pricey than smaller ones. And curtains are typically 45” wide.
Energy-Saving
A number of curtains producers aim to increase homes’ energy efficiency. The carbon footprint that a residence creates contributes to the high pollution levels. So it would help best if you go for thick curtains. They help maximize the house temperature. Therefore, you can enjoy its advantage in the winter.
On the other hand, they will tackle the sunlight by minimizing heat gain by up to 33% in the summer. It will reduce pressure on your air conditioner. This way, you can save your power bill.
Stuff like roll-up shades, films, or blinds can indeed be a reliable alternative to curtains. Else, you may prioritize having energy-efficient windows instead of curtains. It will decrease heat amount in need working as a seal. Nonetheless, curtains are highly recommendable since they elevate your home decor to a large extent.
Design
Design is a big factor for what curtains are expensive. It becomes inevitable for a cohesive interior design. This is a crucial need for every room of a house! No worries, you will be happy to see lots of adorable patterns and colors are available in the markets for curtains.
If you carve a sheerly modern design, then be minimalist as much as possible. Else, you may choose any solid color for a simple, neutral design. And if you prioritize a bright yet simple design, colors like pink or orange is there.
Look, it will be wise to select something for the long run since you may need to alter your furniture. And better choose a differently workable one. Something that matches the personal taste of aesthetics is also recommendable.
Sustainability
This is very crucial. We always look for a long-lasting solution, don’t we? Since being costly, curtains are undoubtedly a matter of significant investment for a general family. So it would help best if you ensure a durable solution. And whenever you will choose such a solution, you will have to pay more.
Rationally, sustainable curtains are pricey. However, the cost varies depending on the type of curtains. Let us share with you the average longevity of some types below! Please have a look!
Glass fiber = 3 years
Lined = 5 years
Sheer = 3 years
In fact, the lifespan of a curtain depends on both the construction and material of the curtains. Interestingly, you can also increase their lifetime. How? Well, all you need to do is- wash them on a regular basis following the instructions!
Depending on the guide given by the fabric producer, you may either go for dry cleaning or steam cleaning. And you can clean most curtains directly into your washer. However, please refrain from using a dryer in this respect!
And let not any animal or people step on them. You better make a floor plan that distracts them from doing so. Or, you can do this at night.
Hardware and Installation
Apart from the material, the curtains hardware makes people pay more. Manufacturers use heavy-duty hardware in heavy curtains. And the quality of hardware matters a lot. The fact is, most of the curtains come with low-quality hardware. Such a purchase is unable to please a consumer’s mind.
Think about whether you have to buy a new curtain rod or you already have one. It would help if you ensured a rust-free rod that seems attractive. Remember, the curtain rod will be visible to your guests and visitors. Besides, don’t forget to check the date.
You will have to hang the curtain with rings. It would be best to choose simply installable curtain rings. It is very helpful in the case of hanging the drapes personally. However, most people don’t risk their interior construction. That’s why they hire experts, and it makes them pay more. Do you know the national average cost for curtain rod installation?
Well, it is $200.
A professional can help you position the rod rightly and hang it evenly. And there will be no risk of a fall. Isn’t it fair enough?
Taxes
Yeah, you will have to pay taxes for your purchased curtains. It includes both local and state taxes. However, it varies from location to location. And you must have known that these taxes aim to feed social services and local infrastructure.
Interestingly, some states do not include sales taxes for curtains. It is applicable for both residents and tourists. These states are as follows:
- Alaska
- Montana
- Delaware
- New Hampshire
- Oregon
Often consumers fail to measure the amount of tax they are bound to pay. Let us give you the example of Louisiana. This state has imposed a 9.55% sales tax. For instance, you have bought curtains for $1,000 here in this arena. Then you will have to pay an extra $95 merely in taxes!
Foreign Transport
As a citizen or resident of the United States of America, you may pride yourself in its leading position in curtains exports. Nonetheless, a number of curtains come from abroad are subject to expensive shipping! Allow us to name such countries below!
- United Kingdom
- Japan
- Germany
- France
- Canada
You might have liked a design made by a renowned UK curtains designer. In that case, there is no alternative to paying an extra penny. And the shipping cost becomes higher when the distance is greater. For the same reason, if you want to bring foreign curtains into the United States for sale, you will have to pay a tariff.
Guaranteed Satisfaction
You would be glad to know that there is something like a ‘satisfaction guarantee’ in the curtain industry. Many manufacturers offer this and make you pay more. Such a guarantee ensures a superbly comfortable feeling with curtains.
Only that? No dear, this also refers that if the manufacturer’s claim does not come true, the money is sure to get back. Else, most of the curtains packages include a warranty. While some warranties offer lifetime service, some are merely for a couple of years. However, it will depend on the parameters of the agreement.
And it would help if you get sure about the return policy if a package does not feature a guarantee or warranty. So don’t hesitate to talk to the retailer.
Why Some Specific Curtains Are Expensive?
In this section, we are going to think a bit differently. Here we will be discussing why a certain type of curtain becomes specific. Are you ready to get them?
Why Are Linen Curtains So Expensive?
You will have linen-look fabrics made from poly-linen combinations or polyester available in the market. These are quite affordable. However, pure linens are costly. Per meter, they cost around $100. These are specifically apt for rooms with large windows. Especially, its demand has been very high over the past few years!
If you participate in home renovation shows, you will find interior designers recommending this. And the reasons for its being expensive are several. These are as follows!
- It creates a statement for your window and helps you stand out from others.
- It helps you come up with a greener outlook in the interior part that can perfectly please a modern mind.
- A linen-made curtain is significantly strong. Interestingly, it gets stronger when wet!
- Such stuff dries very fast although it doesn’t retain moisture.
- Your linen curtain will be non-allergenic, anti-pilling, UV resistant, and repellent to insects.
- Linens are biodegradable. Also, you can recycle them and maximize production.
- The linen-made curtain is fantastically volatile. It can either be too long or too short with the changes in weather as it tends to move with the humidity.
- As part of its inherent charm, it features crushability. You can get rid of this with a steam iron easily. It also fuels the ultimate price.
- A linen-made curtain is stain-resistant. That’s why it doesn’t require lots of cleaning.
Why Are Blackout Curtains So Expensive?
Blackout curtains have room-darkening features. These are also popular throughout the world. Let’s see the reasons for it being expensive!
- Mainly, such a curtain can skillfully resist light better than any other curtain.
- Blackout curtains can offer you more design choices than other curtains. It helps you come up with the desired aesthetical appearance for your room.
- Because of being thick, this is effective for softening outside noise. As a resident of a noisy arena, you can significantly benefit from this.
- It helps insulate your space and improves the energy efficiency level. It will reduce the amount of heat by as much as 24 percent. Thus, it keeps a room warmer in winter and cooler in summer.
- Generally, manufacturers use a combination of polyester and cotton or polyester to create blackout curtains. These heavy microfibers often feature a triple-weave technology and last for long.
- You can easily get rid of creases on your blackout curtains by employing a steam iron.
Why Are Shower Curtains So Expensive?
The shower curtain has been inevitable for every modern home. You can turn any wide curtain into your shower curtain. However, you cannot but lust for expensive ones. And the reasons for its being pricey are as follows!
- These curtains are machine-washable. So you will find it comfortable.
- It features a waterproof coating. There it is durable.
- The living cost of a city is higher than general towns and rural areas, whereas you cannot think of a modern minimalist city apartment void of shower curtains. This is another factor of its being expensive.
- A glass-made shower room requires privacy which is only possible by shower curtains. Else, it provides your shower space with an elegant feel.
- Apart from adding a statement to your bathroom, shower curtains are eco-friendly. It also has made them expensive.
What Are the Advantages of Spending Additional Money on Curtains?
You can afford costly curtains, and you will pay more knowing the reasons behind them, but you should also be clear of the advantages. Otherwise, why will you pay! Please have a look at the points below!
Value for Money
Pricey curtains come with pleasant quality. So you will be enjoying the benefits in the long run from a durable product. You won’t have to worry for a single time! Thus, it will be a secure investment for you.
A Demonstration of Your Personality
You see, your choices show who you are. When you embrace a costly set of curtains for its elegant or luxurious look, you actually show your taste for beauty. Such a product will inundate you with praises from guests and visitors.
Tackling of Sound
Your curtains can block out sound. However, you will have to purchase heavier curtains for this benefit. You might be a dweller in a noisy area. In that case, a heavy curtain can significantly help block the irritable sounds of vehicles, and so on.
Blocking the Light
A cheap curtain features a thin lining. It cannot block light in need. On the contrary, a pricey one will satisfy you for sure. Your eyes can relax in a cool, soothing ambiance with such help.
Personalization
You can personalize your curtain as the manufacturer leverages you to customize it as you wish. Moreover, increased payment ensures better quality. Thus, it will beautify your home interior.
On the contrary, a less spent poor-quality curtain is sure to fail a satisfactory appeal. Also, unlike custom-made curtains, they won’t sustain themselves in the long run.
Frequently Asked Questions
Question: How much should you pay for curtains?
Answer: Generally, the cost of curtains ranges from $100 to $250 per panel on average. Else, the price may go up to $1,500 depending on the design, materials, etc.
Question: Why are curtains sold as one panel?
Answer: It is because a person may need only one panel. That means one may not buy beyond that. That’s why sellers sell this way.
Question: What’s the difference between a drape and a curtain?
Answer: Curtains are modern and casual that allow light to get in. On the contrary, drapes are more formal with thicker fabric to block out light.
Question: What are curtains just at the top called?
Answer: The curtains just at the top are called valances. These remain in stationary mode.
Question: Do you need 2 curtain panels per window?
Answer: You will see curtains for sale are of two panels. It permits you to open the window treatments from the middle.
Question: Are curtains out of style?
Answer: Curtains originate from ancient Egypt. This classic window covering may embrace any modern design. So be sure that it will not go out of style ever!
Question: Do curtains have to touch the floor?
Answer: Yes, your curtains should touch the floor. It shows your elegance and pride to guests and visitors.
Question: How far should a curtain rod extend past the window?
Answer: A curtain rod should extend a minimum of 3 to 6 inches past the window frame. It helps the window appear taller and more attractive.
Question: What are see-through curtains called?
Answer: These are called sheer curtains. Sheer curtains are also expensive. They comprise lightweight fabrics that add an instant infusion of style and soften your home’s lighting.
Question: Do curtains keep cold out?
Answer: Undoubtedly, a good-quality curtain will keep cold out of your room by creating an air gap between the room and the window.
Question: How long do curtains last?
Answer: On average, the glass-fiber and sheer curtains last for around 3 years, whereas lined curtains last 5 years.
Question: Do modern homes use curtains?
Answer: You will see around ten basic curtain styles for modern homes. It has been kind of inevitable for contemporary decoration for those who prioritize aesthetics in their interior parts.
Question: How do professionals hang curtains?
Answer: Professionals hang them high and wide by maintaining the right length. Besides, they determine the apt style and amount of panels.
Question: How wide should my curtains be?
Answer: Your curtains should have a combined width which is 2 to 2½ times the width of the window. However, you may merely want to frame a window instead of shutting it. Then it will be best to round down to 1½ times the width.
Question: Do curtains really save energy?
Answer: At night, curtains can lessen heat loss by up to 17 percent. However, if you choose curtains with thermal lining, it will do up to 25 percent, according to the US Department of Energy. Else, curtains featuring white plastic backings can decrease heat gain by up to 33 percent.
Question: Which curtain length looks best?
Answer: To come up with a good-looking length, multiply the width of your window by 1.5. It will provide a more tailored look. Alternatively, may double the width. These are the rules of thumb.
To Wrap Up
Now you are beautifully aware of the reasons for curtains being expensive. Apart from that, you particularly have learned why linen, shower, and blackout curtains are expensive. Also, this post has made you familiar with their benefits consistently.
Curtains are not only a need but a matter of elegance too! While some are best for home overall, some are specifically for windows. In this article, we discussed different points of view. It will help you choose the most suitable one.
This is an endeavor as part of our knowledge-sharing. Hopefully, this will benefit you in the long run. Have a good day!
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