Can You See Through Sheer Curtains From The Outside?
Sheer curtains can add a light airy touch to your windows. They block out the harshness of the sun while still letting light through. From the inside, sheers can shut out some of the outside world. However, can you see through sheer curtains from the outside looking in?
Sheer curtains can offer some level of privacy during daylight hours. However, when it is dark outside and the lights are on inside your house, sheers can leave you exposed. You can choose to layer your curtains or use overlapping sheer panels, zebra shades, or a blackout liner to add more privacy to a room.
We’ll show you different options for sheer window treatments and discuss ways to enjoy the filtered light by day and keep your privacy at night.
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What is the Purpose of Sheer Curtains as Window Treatments?
If sheer curtains are low on the privacy factor, what exactly do they do? While sheer curtains on their own may not protect you from overcurious neighbors, they still have their uses. Sheer curtains excel at filtering light and can add to the aesthetic of your home.
Filtering light
While blackout curtains are known for blocking out the sun, sheer curtains let light in. Especially during those times of day when the sun seems to beat at your windows, sheer curtains can come in handy. They cut down on harsh, glaring rays, while still allowing you to enjoy the sunshine. Also, during the day, sheers can offer you some privacy from the outside world.
Adding to the aesthetic
Sheers can add texture and color to a room. They can be a subtle accent to tie in your colors and patterns. Also, they won’t obstruct your outside view like regular curtains. Sheers can also make your windows and room look larger when you hang them higher.
Can Sheers Offer Privacy?
Sheers on their own don’t offer much privacy. The purpose of sheers is to filter light so you aren’t blinded by the harsh rays of the sun, and they can also add a nice aesthetic to a room. You can choose to use sheers in rooms where privacy is not a huge concern, such as a living room that looks out over your backyard, or small kitchen windows.
Or, if you enjoy the aspect of sheers by day, but want to keep your privacy at night, you can plan your window treatments accordingly. We’ll show you a few options where you can have the best of both worlds.
Layering curtains
The most common solution to the privacy factor is to layer your sheer curtains with thicker curtains. During the day, you can pull back the thick curtains to let light in, and at night you can fully cover your windows for privacy. You can choose sheers that coordinate colors and/or patterns with your regular curtains for a sophisticated look.
Patterned sheers
By adding a pattern to your sheers, you can add an extra layer of privacy by day. However, at night, even patterned sheers become see-through. Instead, you can choose sheers that mix an opaque pattern with a sheer design. These will offer a bit more privacy than your usual sheers.
Zebra shades
Zebra shades are a modern hybrid between pull-down shades and blinds. They allow you to transition between sheer and opaque. This way you can have filtered light by day and full privacy at night.
Sheer track panels
Sheer track panels can also add a modern look to the room With these, you can spread out the panels to let more light in, or overlap them for added privacy. You can also combine opaque panels with sheer panels in order to adjust your light and level of privacy as desired.
Blackout liners
Another option is to attach blackout liners to the top seam of your sheer curtains. This can still give you the flowing, lightweight visual aspect of sheer curtains. However, your sheers will no longer be see-through or filter daylight.
Are Sheer Curtains Still Chic?
Sheers have a long history as a light and airy window treatment. It doesn’t look as if they are heading into retirement any time soon! Sheer silk or organza curtains tend to add a soft, romantic touch. However, some modernists may prefer a simpler, no-frill style such as zebra blinds or sheer track panels. Whether you choose to hang curtains in your windows or stick to more simple lines, you can find the right sheers to blend with your style.
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Related Questions
Do sheers go in front of or behind your regular curtains?
Traditionally, sheers will be closest to the window, with your heavier curtains on top. This way, when you close the curtains at night, you will see your thicker top layer of curtains. However, some choose to give priority to their sheers and showcase them on top. This style is also acceptable, albeit less common.
Can I use a tension rod to hang curtains?
Tension rods are commonly used for hanging shower curtains, but can you use a tension rod to hang curtains at your window? Yes, as long as the curtain is lightweight, a tension rod can work. You will want to make sure the length of the rod is appropriate and also check to see how much weight it is able to hold. If your room is small enough to use a tension rod from wall to wall, you don’t have to drill into the wall to hang up curtains. Sheers can be a lightweight option or you can also find some lightweight polyester blackout curtains to hang on a tension rod.
Can you put two curtains on the same rod?
If you want to hang sheer curtains along with thicker curtains, you can hang them both on the same rod. Simply add one regular curtain and then add your sheer curtains. You’ll add your other regular curtain last. However, if you use this method, you will not be able to completely close your thick curtains at night. Also, it will be a lot of weight on one rod. A better option will be to install a double rod in place of your single rod.
Alex Praytor is a native Texan who got her degree in English Literature and decided to travel the globe. She finds the architecture and design of homes across cultures fascinating. In her spare time, she visits coffee shops with her family and creates projects for their own home. Alex enjoys sharing tips on how to keep repairs up to date while turning a house into a home.
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