When you are looking to add that extra special something to your outdoor patio space, then you are heading in the right direction looking for outdoor curtains. These are just like what you would use to add some elegance and sophistication to your indoor living spaces. The main difference with an outdoor curtain and an indoor style is with materials.
Having said this, there are differences in fabrics, certain design elements and color choices as well. With outdoor patio curtains, the main thing to keep in mind is the location you are going to be hanging them. For certain applications, it is possible to get away with a less outdoor friendly material in terms of fabric and still be protected if your curtain will be handing beneath your patio. Also, what are you hoping to use them for? Are you wanting privacy, shade or both?
If you plan on hanging your patio curtains out beneath a gazebo, cabana or other type of patio cover, then you should consider the more weather resistant materials and fabrics. Just like with your outdoor patio cushions, you have a lot to choose from in terms of style and weather-resistant materials. One such fabric is the tried and true polyester. With these, you can get mildew-resistance and water-repellent, as well as machine washable features. You can also find patio drapes that are made with the Sunbrella-brand fabric that resists the damage caused by ultraviolet rays (UV). As far as fabric patterns, the sky is the limit. You have striped, bolds, prints and any number of other patterns in between. You can certainly match your patio furniture and cushions set without a problem. Some retailers will even be able to custom make your curtains using the same fabric that your chair cushions are made from.
An elegant and breezy look from a set of outdoor patio curtains.
Depending upon the orientation of your patio and the climate that you are in, materials become key to the longevity of your curtains. If you live in a more harsh environment, like the desert southwest or northeastern parts of the U.S., you have some extremes to consider. Both blazing sun and freezing cold can have devastating effects for outdoor furniture and other fabrics, this includes your outdoor curtains.
Protecting and Maintaining Your Patio Curtains
One way to mitigate the damage to your furniture, cushions and patio curtains is to consider getting some additional types of cover and shade. In the desert, the sun and dust will be the most destructive forces for your outdoor accessories. In this case, patio shades would serve you quite well. You can get them in materials that accent your curtains and other fabrics or go with something that blends into your surrounding landscape design.
Your patio curtains can also transport you to another dimension so to speak. If you have a cabana or other type of gazebo structure that sits out in your yard or poolside, the right outdoor curtain can suggest an exotic feel and experience. Think of those Greek or Italian styles and patterns. Imagine how you would feel having those enveloping you or gently blowing in the breeze, while you sit in your chaise lounger on a lazy Sunday afternoon.
When you are looking for new outdoor curtains, dimensions are important to note. Standard dimensions are 96” long (8’) by 50” wide (just over 4’). This is a typical size. You can order custom sizes as well from many local drapery shops or online. You’ll also want to ensure that the materials your fabrics are made of can withstand the outdoor elements. Some fabrics say that they are for the outdoors but show little in the way of materials to back up these claims. If your curtains are to hang on a rod of some kind, make sure that it is made of a material that will not rust and stain your drapes. Also, if your curtains have a grommet-style of attachment to this rod, they should be stainless steel or brass to resist that corrosion and staining as well. Beyond this, being able to properly clean and maintain your outdoor curtains should keep them stable and looking good for years to come.
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