You can turn your windows into a statement piece with the right tools and instruments. If you are in the market for new curtains, then you must have come across the terms curtain pelmet and valance. The first impression is that they are essentially the same thing, but are they?
These two usually accompany curtains and go at the top of curtains and drapes. So, what is the difference between curtain pelmet and valance? To understand the differences, let’s understand what pelmet and valance are, how they are different and what their benefits are.
What is a Curtain Pelmet?
Window pelmet is an efficient concealer. It is a decorative framework placed above a window to decorate or hide curtain hardware. It is not only a window treatment, but it is also a design element added to a window treatment. A curtain pelmet is a fabric, box, or frame used with the sole purpose of being a pretty cover-up for curtain supports, fixtures, and other structures. You can paint the pelmet or cover it with fabric that complements or blends with the curtains or drapes.
In the past, wealthy and elite people used pelmet in their homes. Therefore, having one in your home gives it a luxurious feel and look.
To know more about window pelmet, we have written detailed article on it. Please refer to the following link:
What is a Curtain Valance?
Window valance is a window treatment that is like a curtain pelmet placed across the top of a window. However, it is made of curtain fabric, and it hides various curtain fixtures only when the window has curtains or drapes. As it resembles a short curtain, you can use it on bare windows.
How is Pelmet Different from Valance? – Pelmet vs Valance
While both are similar in many ways, curtain pelmet and valance have several differences that set them apart. The main difference between pelmet and valance are classified as follows:
Materials Used: You can use fabric, wood, metal, foamboards, etc. to make pelmet. However, valance is made exclusively of fabric.
Purpose: Pelmet hides curtain hardware and other fixtures that might look unattractive. Valance also hides curtain hardware while improving the aesthetics of bare windows. The main purpose of a valance is to add beauty.
Effect: Pelmet adds drama and extravagance to a room, whereas valance softens a space.
Placement: Pelmet goes above and around curtain support, while valance is directly attached to the curtain rod.
Maintenance: Pelmet is difficult to maintain, whereas valance has less fabric, so it is easy to maintain. You can even wash it by hand.
What are the Benefits of Pelmet and Valance?
Pelmet and Valance both have similar benefits, as both serve the same purposes and are fixed at the top of window treatments. Following are the benefits of pelmet and valance.
- Hides Fixtures: They hide the top part of curtains, which usually comprises the curtain rod or tracks, brackets, and other fixtures.
- Helps to Reduce Power Bills: They control airflow within a room. Pelmet and valance help you cut your power bills by preventing heat loss in the winter and keeping out heat in the summer.
- Hide/anchor Wires and Lights: It can also anchor any sort of fixture (like LED light strips) or wiring.
- Helps Cut Spending on Expensive Curtain Details: As they hide curtain hardware, you can get away with using simple fixtures. You don’t have to shell out a lot of money on expensive curtain rods or tracks, drapery rings, brackets, etc.
- Give Character to Bare Windows: Not all windows need curtains or other coverings. It is true, especially for small windows. With that said, the bare window appears dull and off-putting, and valance can add colour and character without being too distracting or bulky. It makes especially good kitchen window treatments.
- Wide Range of Styles: There are numerous styles of valance, and you can choose the one that best suits your room. You can also use custom valance to achieve the desired look.
- Change the Look of Your Room: You can also use it to break the monotony of your room by matching it with the furniture or walls. Depending on the design, materials, or patterns, pelmet can make your room look luxurious.
Conclusion
Now that you have learned about the difference between curtain pelmet and valance, you can look closer and spot their differences. We hope this article has been informative and helped you get a deeper and better understanding of window valance and pelmet. Happy shopping!
Before you leave, don’t forget to read the following articles too:
Window Blinds vs Curtains: Choose the Right Window Treatment
6 Stunning Different Ways To Hang Curtains On Curtain Rods
Author Bio
Andrea Noronha – Andrea Noronha is a content writer and editor with over 4 years of experience. Although she comes from a finance background, Andrea is passionate about blogging about interior design. Her other interests include travelling, baking, and digital marketing.