5 Window Treatments for Large Windows in Colorado Springs
Large windows are one of the best features of Colorado homes. Whether you live in Colorado Springs or its neighboring areas, big windows give you natural light, sweeping mountain views, and open-concept living that feels bright and modern. But here’s the truth: choosing the right window treatments for large windows can also be the trickiest.
They bring in glare, heat, cold drafts, fading sunlight, and privacy concerns, especially when facing the streets or the blazing afternoon sun.
The good news? With the right blinds or shades, you can enjoy every inch of your views without sacrificing comfort or style. This guide breaks down what actually works for large windows in Colorado’s unique climate.
The Best Window Treatments for Large Windows in Colorado Springs
Below is a list of top-performing window treatment solutions based on insulation, light control, and view preservation. Also, they are highly recommended for their aesthetics, size capabilities, and durability in Colorado’s climate. We install these every week across the Pikes Peak region.
1. Solar Shades: Best for Preserving Views
When clients tell us: “We want to keep our mountain views but reduce glare,” our answer is almost always solar shades.
Why solar shades are ideal for large windows:
- Maintains outdoor views
- Cuts glare dramatically
- Protects furniture/floors from UV
- Modern, clean aesthetic
- Works for wide spans & tall windows
Best openness levels for Colorado homes:
- 5% → balanced view + light control
- 3% → stronger glare reduction (great for offices & west-facing windows)
We had a client in Northgate who had floor-to-ceiling windows that made their living room feel like a spotlight by 3 pm. We installed 5% solar shades, and instantly the room became usable again; cooler, softer light, same stunning view.
2. Vertical Blinds or Cellular Shades: Best for Sliding Doors & Extra-Wide Windows
Many Colorado homes have huge sliding doors opening to patios, decks, or backyards. Vertical solutions are built for wide expanses and offer smooth, practical function. If you love a clean, streamlined look, vertical cellular shades are game changers.
Best vertical options:
- Vertical cellular shades (excellent insulation + modern)
- Fabric or vinyl vertical blinds
- Panel track shades (popular in modern homes)
Why vertical blinds or cellular shades work well:
- Great for 12–16 foot spans
- Easy operation
- Simple repair/maintenance
- Available in blackout, light-filtering, or patterned designs
3. Motorized Roller Shades: Best for Tall or Hard-to-Reach Windows
Colorado Springs homes often have two-story great rooms, clerestory, stacked, and ransom windows. Large windows require heavier shade material. Motorization prevents constant strain on manual mechanisms, thereby extending the life of the product. Also, motorization solves the “How do I reach that?” problem.
Why motorized roller shades are perfect for large windows:
- Smooth operation for oversized shades
- Syncs with smart home systems
- Schedules sunrise/sunset adjustments
- Quiet motors
- Clean, modern finish
Where we install motorized roller shades most:
- Flying Horse
- Cordera
- Wolf Ranch
- Broadmoor
- Black Forest custom homes
4. Layered Solutions: Best for Customizing Light, Privacy & Design
Large windows benefit from multiple layers because they soften the room and add insulation. Also, this gives you control light both day and night, and it increases flexibility. Layering adds a “finished” look that instantly elevates mountain-modern, farmhouse, and contemporary homes.
Best layer combinations:
- Solar shade + blackout roller
- Cellular shade + drapery
- Zebra shade + side panels
This window treatment combination is especially effective in:
- bedrooms
- media rooms
- living rooms with intense western exposure
5. Cellular (Honeycomb) Shades: Best for Insulation & Comfort
If comfort and energy efficiency are your priority, cellular shades are unbeatable, even on big windows. Many clients in Falcon and Peyton choose these because of large east-facing windows that make mornings too bright and cold.
Why honeycomb shades excel:
- Industry-leading insulation
- Lightweight even at large sizes
- Available in top-down/bottom-up styles
- Cordless options
- Excellent color range
Honeycomb or cellular shades are best for:
- Living rooms
- Bedrooms
- Anywhere you want temperature control
Why Large Windows in Colorado Need Special Window Treatments
Colorado homes deal with conditions that most other states never experience. Our high-altitude sun produces strong UV rays that can fade floors, overheat rooms, and create uncomfortable glare throughout the day. We also face dramatic temperature swings, which means large windows can lose heat in the winter and trap warmth in the summer.
Many homes back up to open space or enjoy beautiful mountain views, so homeowners want privacy without feeling like they’re blocking out the scenery. And because Colorado builders love tall ceilings, clerestory windows, and unique architectural shapes, many homes include window designs that look stunning but require the right treatments to control light, heat, and privacy effectively.
How to Choose the Right Window Treatment
- If your window faces west, choose solar or dual shades for glare control
- If your window is floor-to-ceiling, use motorized rollers or panel tracks
- If you need insulation, choose cellular shades or layered drapery + shade combo
- If you want full blackout, choose blackout drapery panels
- If privacy is a major concern, choose zebra shades or solar shades with low openness
- If you want to preserve mountain views, then solar shade is the way to go
Common Mistakes to Avoid With Large Windows
1. Choosing treatments too small for the span leads to bowing, warping, or poor function.
2. Picking treatments that block your view entirely is unnecessary, especially with solar or zebra shades.
3. Using cheap big-box shade rarely holds up on large windows because mechanisms fail quickly.
4. DIY installation, especially for large shades that require precise mounting for safety, smooth lift, and longevity.
Local Case Study: Colorado Springs Living Room Transformation
A family in Old Colorado City had massive picture windows with a view of Pikes Peak, but the sun made the room unusable in the afternoon. They wanted cooler temps, less glare, and preserved views.
We installed 3% solar shades with motorization. They told us: “We finally use the living room again. And the view looks even better with the shades down.”
This happens often when solar shades add contrast that enhances outdoor scenery.
Ready to Make Your Large Windows Comfortable & Beautiful?
Big windows deserve big care. Whether you want to keep your view, improve energy efficiency, or simply make the room more comfortable, we’ll guide you through every step.
At Love is Blinds Co, we make the process simple. We bring the samples, measure your windows, and help you choose what fits your home, your style, and your budget.
Book your FREE in-home consultation today. Let’s get your windows covered beautifully and correctly.
FAQs on Window Treatments for Large Windows
Will I lose my view with window treatments?
Not with solar shades or zebra shades. They are designed to preserve your outside view while softening harsh sunlight. Also, they reduce glare and UV exposure without creating a heavy or closed-off feeling, making them ideal for Colorado’s bright, panoramic scenery.
Are motorized shades worth it for tall windows?
Yes. Motorized shades prevent wear and tear on the lifting mechanism, which is especially important for oversized or hard-to-reach windows. They also add everyday convenience by allowing you to adjust light and privacy levels with a remote, app, or smart-home voice control.
What is the most energy-efficient option for large windows?
Cellular shades are one of the best choices. Their honeycomb structure traps air and helps regulate indoor temperatures year-round. And when youcombine drapery with shades, it furthers boosts insulation which is a major advantage during Colorado’s hot summers and chilly winters.
What’s the best modern look?
Motorized roller or solar shades in neutral tones offer a clean, streamlined appearance that fits well with contemporary design. Their minimalist profile allows the architecture and natural light to shine, while advanced fabrics provide UV protection without visual clutter.
