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[Self-renovation] It's not just cloth curtains! Highly functional and stylish ideas, types, how to choose and recommended products that create a window shade function [DIY Renovation]

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*This article contains some promotional content.

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Hello, this is DIY Renova.

"My bedroom is so dazzling I can't sleep," "My windows are reflected on the screen because I work from home," "My room is a sauna in the western summer sun..." In the past, I think many people have first considered "thick cloth curtains" to deal with such concerns. But now it's not just "curtains." The options around windows have suddenly expanded over the past few years, and there have been an increase in the number of techniques that simultaneously satisfy "shading," "heat insulation," "heat insulation," and "design (fashionable)."

This time I wrote an article to tell you that it's not just general curtains.

We hope this will be helpful to those who are thinking of buying it now or wanting to change the atmosphere of their room.

So, here you go.

Table of Contents

What you can learn from this article

  • Tips for achieving both differences between "shading" and "heat insulation"
  • The shortest solution for each purpose (bedroom/work from home/living room/children's room)
  • Differentiation of curtains, roll screens, blinds, shy screens, and inner windows
  • Installation method that is assuming that it will be restored to its original state, even if you are renting
  • Tips for measuring and installing (secret to reduce light leakage)
  • Recommended compositions and product examples by budget (easy to obtain in Japan)

First of all, basic knowledge: "shading" and "heat insulation and heat insulation" are different

  • "Blocking the light" means reducing visible light into the room and making it darker. Effective for preventing sleep, projectors and screen display.
  • "Heat shielding" means relieving indoor heat by bounces back and absorbing heat from the sun (such as near-infrared rays). It works in the summer.
  • "Insulation" means suppressing the ingress and out of heat transmitted through windows and walls, making it difficult to convey cold winter and hot summer.

The "comfort of windows" is largely determined by two pillars: light and heat. Common mistakes include "I bought first-class blackout curtains, but the summer is still hot" and "Even though I changed to heat-shielding lace, it's dazzling at night." This is a sign that the purpose is mixed. The ideal is a multi-layered structure that involves handling heat on the window side (near the glass) and finishing the light inside the room. For example, the two-tiered stance, "a heat-shielding roll screen inside the window frame and a light-shielding drape outside the window (inside the interior)" is a strong combination of both practical and appearance.

Engineering, there is an indicator that the smaller the solar heat acquisition rate (g value = η) is advantageous in summer, and the smaller the heat passing rate (U value) is advantageous in winter ("Lower g value = less likely to allow solar heat from outside" and "Lower U value = less likely to allow heat to pass through"). There is no need for difficult formulas, but remember that "g value for summer" and "U value for winter" won't be a hassle when choosing a product.

Shortest routes by purpose

Bedroom (I want to make it pitch black)

  • "1st grade blackout curtain" + "return sewing" + "top cover (or ceiling mounted rail)"
  • If you're going to attack even more, double-layered "shading roll screens inside the window frame" and "shading drapes on the interior side" will dramatically reduce "light leakage from lines."

Work from home (want to erase screen reflections)

  • "Matte blackout roll screen" + "Side cover (top and bottom blackout plates and mohair are also effective)"
  • Designed in which direction light is stopped in the relative position of the window and monitor. It's also effective if you only "on either the left or right side."

Living room (Balance of brightness and energy saving)

  • "Insulation with a shy screen (honeycomb)" + "Designed with lace or thin drape"
  • The west side is heavy in summer, so the screen can be lowered during the day and the angle can be adjusted in the evening to allow for lighting.

Children's room (for naps and early sleep)

  • "1st grade light blocking" and "washable fabric." If you have a high rise or a common area, we also consider adding a flame-retardant label.
  • When operating the string, be sure to use "child safety" parts (such as safety joints).

The underlying strength of the curtain: 1st grade light blocking and sewing and parts to eliminate "line light"

Types and points

  • Drape (thick fabric): Shading grade (grades 1 to 3). "Level 1" is so dark that it is impossible to tell the face.
  • Lace: mirrors, UV protection, heat-shielding, etc. To prevent the glare and gaze of the day.
  • Added lining: Heat-shielding and light-shielding liners are added to the back of existing curtains to improve performance.

Preparation to prevent light leakage

  • "Return sewing"... Turn both ends of the curtain towards the wall to cut off any side leaks.
  • "Top cover top"... Covers the gap between the rail and the ceiling, blocking the light from the top.
  • "Length of floor shaking"... Prevents leakage from underneath and cold air from intrusion.
  • "Ceiling-mounted rails": radically reduce light leakage from windows.

Recommended ways to buy

  • If you're a first-time user, you'll find that you'll find fewer mistakes if you start with "Mass Sales x 1st Grade Shading x Standard Size". Specialty stores where you can consult about size adjustment and sewing (e.g. "Surprising Curtains") are also encouraging. By combining the light and color of the room with "Request a fabric sample", your satisfaction will increase dramatically.

Roll screen: Flat for easy cleaning. Easy to use even for rentals

Features

  • It looks neat and does not easily accumulate dust.
  • You can choose according to your purpose, such as "shading fabric," "heat-shielding fabric," and "flame-retardant label included."
  • It is compact when placed inside the window frame, and when installed in front, there is less light leakage.

Rental installation

  • Choose a type that can be attached to a curtain rail or a tension type to make it easier to restore the original state.
  • When installing inside a window frame, there is a margin of about 10 to 12 mm on the left and right sides to prevent interference. If you are concerned about light leakage, reinforce it with a side cover or top box.

Tips for selecting products

  • If "shading is the top priority," dark colors are the advantage of fabrics. However, if you are concerned about the heat of indoor reflections in the summer, two-tone fabric with a light color on the outside and a dark color on the inside is also an option.
  • If you are looking for a "heat-shielding" look for information such as "how much does it cut solar heat" in the catalog.
  • Reference:
    • Tachikawa Blinds (a wide selection of models with shielding, typical of light and heat shielding)
    • Interior goods Skip (roll screen specialty store/for new purchases)
      • Affiliated Promo Link (The code provided will be posted directly in HTML in Markdown)

Blinds (blinders): Good light control

Horizontal type (Venitian)

  • The appeal of this item is that the slat angle allows you to adjust the balance between lighting, gaze, and ventilation.
  • It is difficult to completely turn it into a darkroom, so it is better to "prevent reflections from working from home" than "pitching the pitch black in the bedroom."
  • Aluminum is lightweight and economical, while wood is highly designed and contributes to sound absorption.

Vertical type

  • It goes well with a large opening and a bay window, giving it a hotel-like impression.
  • Light is prone to leak vertically, so if light blocking is the top priority, it is safe to use a dual arrangement.

Shame screen (honeycomb screen): Insulation trump card

"Honeycomb" is a structure in which a hexagonal air layer is continuous, and the entire screen acts as an "air insulation material." Air is less likely to transmit heat, so in winter it relieves cold radiation from the windows (finally) and in summer it reduces the heat from outside from passing through the room.
The key points are "cell thickness (depth),", "single/double cells", and "fabric color and transparency." The more double cells or thicker types, the more likely they are to have higher insulation.

The window facing

  • Countermeasures against cold and heat in the north, west and northwest
  • Improved comfort in your bedroom and study
  • Cool air protection in the living room with large windows

Measurement and installation tips

  • If you install the window frame inside, it is "width = effective internal dimensions - 10 to 12mm" and "height = effective dimensions" to prevent rubbing.
  • When you apply the front to the front, light leakage will be reduced by covering the left and right sides with a "50-80mm" option.
  • Check the "horizontal" on the floor or window stair using a laser or a longer level before deciding on the bracket position, and the finish will be beautiful.

Combined ideas

  • The double-layered "honeycomb + blackout curtains" eliminates both insulation and darkness.
  • If the western sun is strong, adding an external sunshade such as a blind or awning on the outside will significantly reduce the rise in room temperature.

Wooden slide panel: Makes it look like furniture and blocks light

A popular method for advanced DIYers. When you run wooden panels (12-15mm thick laminated wood or Lauan plywood) on the "top rail" in front of the window, you can "close it" quickly and block it when necessary. Applying black felt or a light shielding cloth to the back will absorb the fine reflections of light and make it even darker.
Since "light leaks through the lines," it is effective to apply mohair tape (gap brush) to the top and left and right. If you are renting, you can set up the pillars using a deer wall or similar and secure the rails there to ensure their original restoration.

Minimum ingredients

  • Set of upper hanging sliding door rails (load capacity is plate weight x safety factor of 1.5 or more)
  • Laminated wood panel 12-15mm thick
  • Mohair tape, floor guide, pulling hardware
  • Underground finder, screws, anchors, painted materials (oil or urethane)

Work flow

  1. Measurement and design (approx. opening + left and right covers 50-80mm)
  2. Check the base of the rail (if you use the board, go to the base position, if you do not, check the base position, etc.)
  3. Cutting, chamfering, and painting of boards
  4. Hardware installation, hanging, leveling out
  5. Mohair paste and floor guide installed

DIY Case Studies

It is also recommended to get an idea of it with a TikTok short (thanks and respects the poster).
https://vt.tiktok.com/ZSANC42hr/

From the root: interior windows and window renovations (Madrimo, etc.)

The most reliable way to strengthen the "window itself." Inner windows (double-glazed windows), resin sashes, and updating to Low-E double-pane glass will greatly improve U values. It is especially effective against cold radiation, condensation, and noise in winter.
Retrofitting interior windows (e.g. Madrimo) are equipped with new interior windows into existing frames, making construction time shorter. As DIY difficulty increases, if you are unsure about measurements or fit, you can also request a professional.

    Restoring techniques to the original state that are OK for rentals

    • Choose a roll screen/blind that can be attached to the curtain rail
    • Uses tension-type partition poles to secure wooden panels and rolls there.
    • Adhesive and magnetic airtight tape to suppress the "lines" of light and gaps
    • Designed fixing method using double-sided tape (tested in order of weak adhesive → strong adhesive) that does not leave marks when leaving

    Summary of specific DIY procedures (up to material level)

    Step A: Roll screen (Curtain rail installation)

    1. Check the width, load capacity and runner shape of the existing rails.
    2. The included rail attachments are temporarily fastened at equal intervals.
    3. Snap the main unit onto the bracket.
    4. Adjust the chain length and winding direction.
    5. If you are concerned about light leakage, add "top cover" and "side cover."

    Tools required: Phillips screwdriver, measure, stepladder, leveler.

    Interior goods Skip | Roll screen specialty store (partner)

    Step B: Shaking screen (installed inside the window frame)

    1. Check the distortion and horizontal of the frame.
    2. Orders are placed with width = inner dimensions - 10 to 12 mm, height = inner dimensions.
    3. Place the brackets evenly over the top frame.
    4. Insert the main unit and check the lift and lowering.
    5. Slim mohair tape reduces gap light.

    Tools required: electric screwdriver, 2mm pilot hole cone, leveler, measure.

    Step C: Blackout curtains (made to minimize light leakage)

    1. Measure the distance from the end of the rail to the wall to ensure return.
    2. It uses a ceiling-mounted rail or cover top to block out light from the top.
    3. The length is 5-10mm above the floor. Lightly clip the pleats to adjust for a few days to temporarily secure them.
    4. Make sure it doesn't hit windowsills or furniture, and if necessary, reposition the tassels.

    Tools you need: measure, pen, stepladder, clip.

    Step D: Insulation Film for Window (Small Improvement)

    1. Thoroughly clean the window with neutral detergent and wipe dry.
    2. Spray water with just a small amount of kitchen detergent using a spray bottle.
    3. Place the film on and use a squeegee to move the bubbles out.
    4. The edges are finished with a cutter, leaving about 2mm of room left.
    5. Use a "corner guard" to prevent peeling from the edge surface to last longer.

    Tools needed: squeegee, mist sprayer, cutter, ruler, protective tape.

    Planning by budget (estimated)

    • Low budget (10,000 to 20,000 yen/window): First-class blackout curtains + cover tops and return sewing.
    • Medium budget (20,000 to 50,000 yen/window): Uses a shading roll + side cover and shy screen.
    • High budget (from 50,000 yen/window): Electric screens, interior windows and low-E updates, wooden slide panels are made in a furniture style.

    The cost-effectiveness is easy to feel in the order of "large opening on the west" → "bedroom" → "back window on the work from home". Decide your priorities by multiplying area x solar intensity x stay time.

    Common failures and rescue

    • "Even though I made the first grade of light blocking, the light from the lines remains."
      Countermeasures: Change to front attachment, add side covers, re-stitching of return.
    • "Summer is still hot"
      Countermeasures: Change to a shabby screen or heat-shielding roll, use an external sunshade in conjunction with an internal window, if possible, fundamental improvements are made using an internal window.
    • "It interferes inside the window frame and does not rise."
      Measures: There is not enough measurement width (10-12mm). Review the bracket position and body size.
    • "It's dangerous for children to play with strings."
      Countermeasures: Child safety fittings, safety joints, and cordless lifting types.

    Mini Guide to Legal Regulations and Safety (Japan's Prerequisites)

    • Flame-retardant display: High-rise buildings and facilities used by an unspecified number of people require curtains with flame-retardant properties. If you live in a high-rise apartment, you can rest assured that you should also check the management terms and choose "with flame retardant label."
    • Restoring the original rental: If screw holes are not allowed, non-destructive fixing such as rail installation, tension, magnets, and tape type will be given priority. If you position the removal procedure in mind from the beginning, problems will be reduced.
    • Safety of strings and chains: Homes with small children or pets always use "safety parts." When going to bed, roll it up and secure it at a high position.

    Mini QA: Answers to the points that are easy to confuse

    • Q: Will the color black if it's "1st grade light blocking" be pitch black?
      A: The fabric itself is dark enough, but if you take measures to prevent light leakage from the top, left and right lines at the same time, the degree of perfection will improve.
    • Q: Which works better for insulation, a shy screen or a roll?
      A: If it's more insulated, it's often advantageous to have a bite with an air layer. The fabric specifications are also important for heat shielding in summer. Choose the window based on its position (direction) and purpose.
    • Q I don't want to use screws when renting
      A: Consider the following in the order of rail installation, tension, magnet, and tape fixation. Heavy objects have a risk of falling even if they are tensioned, so please allow for a more secure safety factor.
    • Q I want to make it pitch black for a projector
      A: The surefire is a double-layered structure of a light-shielding roll (side cover) inside the window frame and a light-shielding drape outside the window.

    Summary: If you think about "light" and "heat" separately, the window area will definitely improve.

    • If you are pursuing "darkness", in addition to the first grade of light shielding, turn off the light from the lines with "return sewing, top cover, and side treatment."
    • To reduce the heat and cold, shy screens and inner windows improve the insulation of the window itself.
    • Roll screens are easy to clean and are versatile players that are easy to use even in rentals.
    • If you multi-layer it according to your budget, your experience will change dramatically. It's easier to see the effect if you start with the "large opening on the west side."

    Let's create windows that are "sound at night and comfortable during the day" with your hands. If you have measurement notes and photos of the window, we will suggest you select more specific sizes and parts.

    Reference materials/Respect (titles omitted)

    • Official manufacturer catalog (for checking specifications for light shielding, heat shielding, flame retardant, and safety parts)
      Tachikawa Blinds/Tachikawa Kiko/Nichibei/Nitori/YKK AP (Madrimo) and others
    • Specialist EC and information page
      Surprising curtains (fabric samples and sewing consultations are attractive) / Interior goods Skip (roll screen specialty store)
    • DIY video/short clip (to grab an image)
      Examples of wooden slide panels and videos related to "Installing a shy screen." There is much to learn from the ingenuity of the authors.
    • Basic knowledge about housing (easy explanation)
      A conceptual article explaining the "Window Insulation (U-value)" and "Solar Heat Acquisition Rate (g-value/η)" and an introduction to home energy-saving materials. This introductory content will be useful, not just mathematical formulas, which allow you to imagine the path of temperature and heat.

    We would like to express our gratitude to creators, retailers and manufacturers for their daily communication and quality products. Readers must check the latest instruction manual, building management regulations, and housing conditions (flame retardant and restore to original state), and work with safety first.

    If you're wondering "How much renovation or remodeling can I actually do on my own home?" or "Where should I even start?", please visit this page. If you're looking to learn more about specific renovation processes or construction details, don't miss this page as well!

    Appendix: Checklist (copy and use)

    • The purpose is "I want to make it dark/I want to keep the heat down/Both"
    • The window direction is "South/East/West/North"
    • Installation conditions are "Screws OK/Screws are not allowed (rental)"
    • The structure is "Inside the window frame: heat shielding or insulation" and "Indoor side: light shielding."
    • To prevent light leakage, "top cover/side cover/return sewing"
    • Safety is "Flame Retardant (if necessary)/Child Safety"
    • Budgets are "low/medium/high" and start with priority windows

    *This article is written based on the housing situation in Japan. If you are a reader overseas, please read it according to the standards, regulations and climatic conditions in your area.

    Reference materials and respect

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