Skip to Main Content
home
Promotions
Portfolio
Request a Consultation
Home
Promotions
Portfolio
Request a Consultation

Comparing Drapes vs. Curtains: What are the Differences?

In the window treatment world, slight differences between styles can make or break whether you add them to your home. That is, many window treatments might sound the same at first, but when you dive into their aesthetic and practical differences, you’ll quickly find that they aren’t as similar as you thought.

Dramatic and elegant brown drapes paired with sheer curtains in a cozy living room space at Delux Drapery & Shade Co. near Ann Arbor,(MI)

Take drapes versus curtains, for example. Though many use the terms interchangeably, these window treatments aren’t exactly the same. So, what are the differences? Let our Delux Drapery & Shade Co. team help you with this informative guide.

The Differences Between Curtains vs. Drapes

Here are some of the differences between curtains versus drapes:

Fabrics

The biggest difference between the two soft window treatments is the type of fabrics artisans use. In general, drapes tend to comprise thicker, heavier fabrics and often feature a lining.

Curtains, on the other hand, usually have lighter, thinner fabrics that are sheer or unlined. Both offer various customization options, including patterns, cuts, and colors.

Lengths

Drapes are usually floor-length, providing some visual drama. However, they can be longer to create a pooling effect that appears to elongate windows and even the space.

Curtains tend to fall at, or a couple of inches below, the windowsill.

Features

As mentioned, drapes tend to feature heavy, thick fabrics, which improve their ability to block light, reduce outside noise, and retain insulation at the window. If you have a particularly drafty room, sunny space, or room facing a busy street, drapery might be your best style.

Since curtain fabrics are thinner, they don’t block out as much light as drapes. However, they do a brilliant job at gently filtering light to bask different rooms in a soft glow, enhancing the ambiance.

Installation

Due to their heavier fabrics, drapery requires a sturdier rod than curtains. It’s best to avoid hanging drapes with tension rods, as their weight will often drag the rod down.

Lighter and shorter curtains can be hung from tension rods, allowing you to forego drilling holes in your walls. Our experts are here for your custom drapery needs. From selecting hardware from top brands to professional installation, we can get your new window treatments up and running quickly.

Ambiances

Drapes are often reserved for rooms that are more formal, like dining or living rooms. This elegant feeling can be further elevated by selecting opulent fabrics and hardware.

Curtains are better for rooms with a relaxing feel, like kitchens, family rooms, or home offices.

Shop Custom DraperyNear Ann Arbor, MI

Whether you choose drapes or curtains, there’s one thing everything is guaranteed to enjoy: selecting the best styles for you. At Delux Drapery & Shade Co., we carry a fine selection of custom draperies for you to choose from, including Carole™ Fabrics Custom Drapery. Featuring over 4,000 fabric and color options, our team can perfectly personalize them to meet your home's design and functional needs.

To learn more about the differences between drapes versus curtains, request a consultation, call (734) 662-6524, or visit us today. Delux Drapery & Shade Co. is located in Ann Arbor, Michigan, and proudly serves Ypsilanti, Saline, Chelsea, Dexter, Manchester, Howell, Brighton, Washtenaw County, and all surrounding communities.

Contact Us
©2025 Hunter Douglas. All Rights Reserved.
Accessibility
Site Map
Privacy Policy
Terms of Use