Custom drapes, shades, and curtains not only beautify your outdoor living space, but they also have many practical benefits. The key reasons you should consider using outdoor drapery curtains are:

• Protect your outdoor living spaces from the sun and block harmful, damaging UV rays
• Keep your outdoor living space cooler in the summer
• Cover sliding glass doors and other window exteriors to reduce indoor sun exposure, prevent heat transfer, reduce energy bills, and improve indoor comfort
• Enhance the privacy of your outdoor living area
• Create ambiance and set a mood
• Protect your outdoor living space from wind, rain, and dust
• Keep insects like flies, gnats, and mosquitoes out of your outdoor living space

Outdoor curtains and shades are available in a wide range of different fabric types. Avoid using indoor curtains for your outdoor living space, as they are typically made from thinner, sheerer fabric that won’t hold up to the elements and may degrade quickly. Here is a look at the most popular and durable outdoor drapery fabric options:

• Canvas – Canvas is a natural, heavyweight fabric made from cotton. If the canvas isn't weather-proofed, it can become very heavy with rain. Some outdoor curtains are made from canvas that is weather-proof and resistant to dirt, dust, and rain. It can also offer protection if you want to use your outdoor area in poor weather. This fabric is typically thicker and heavier and may have a thin coating on it for protection. Canvas is ideal in colder climates or for use in the winter.
• Olefin – Olefin is UV resistant and offers added protection from harmful UV rays. It can also keep your outdoor living space cooler and more comfortable in the summer, and protect your seat cushions, upholstery, decor, and plants from sun damage or fading.
• Sunbrella – Sunbrella is a trusted outdoor fabric brand known for being durable and stain-resistant. Sunbrella fabrics can be weather-resistant and UV-resistant and offer protection from wind, rain, sun, dust, dirt, and pests. It is ideal for use in the winter or summer.
• Acrylic and Polyester – Acrylic and polyester are both man-made fabrics. Acrylic is popular for use in outdoor drapery and curtains because it is durable, UV-resistant, and fade-resistant. Polyester is durable and low maintenance. However, it may not allow for ideal airflow.

The outdoor drapery fabric you choose will depend on your aesthetic and the decor of your outdoor living space, as well as its primary purpose. When choosing your fabric, you should consider:

• Where the curtains or drapes will be installed
• If the outdoor space is enclosed or exposed to all the elements
• If the outdoor space is next to your home’s windows or sliding glass doors
• How sunny, hot, and humid the area will get
• If it rains frequently in your area
• How often you think you will want to change the curtains or drapes
• How much time you want to devote to maintenance

Our curtaineers can act as your design consultants throughout the process of choosing outdoor drapery fabric and exploring outdoor drapery ideas. Our extensive showroom carries a selection of outdoor drapes for any purpose, aesthetic, or need. We have extensive experience and can show you an amazing selection of different styles, colors, patterns, and designs for your outdoor curtains or drapes. All of our outdoor drapery is handcrafted here in Texas, and we will work closely with you to customize the size, style, and features of your outdoor drapery to meet your unique needs. Take a look through our gallery of completed outdoor drapery installations or our idea gallery to get some design inspiration.

If you’re ready to explore your options for outdoor drapes in Austin, TX, our curtaineers at The Great Curtain Company would love to help. We offer custom outdoor drapery solutions that are uniquely tailored to your outdoor living space, aesthetic, and needs. Our professional outdoor drapery installers ensure your curtains and shades are perfectly installed and operate properly. Call us now or contact us online to schedule a consultation with one of our design consultants or plan a visit to our showroom to explore our wide selection of different colors, styles, and designs of outdoor drapery fabric. You can also schedule a virtual design consultation and discuss your outdoor drapery ideas from the comfort of your home.