What Are Double Track Curtains And Why Do Designers Love Them?

In most cases, choosing window treatments involves dealing with conflicting objectives. On one hand, thin fabrics allow filtered sunshine into a room, but they cannot prevent the penetration of light in the morning or offer privacy when it gets dark outside. On the other hand, thick fabrics are able to provide effective protection against light and cold drafts, but having them closed during the day leaves rooms cold and dark. Double-track window blinds address this dilemma by using two separate railings for curtains.

Blinds by Design provides assistance in the planning and installation of curtains in Bathurst, Orange, Central West, Blue Mountains, and Lake Macquarie areas for home owners and interior decorators. Knowledge of how a double track system works is useful in determining whether you should opt for a two-tier curtain for your home.

What Are Double Track Curtains?

Double-track curtains consist of two separate curtain tracks mounted parallel to each other on a wall or ceiling, allowing two distinct curtain layers to operate independently. Typically combining a light-filtering sheer curtain on one track with a dense blockout curtain on the second track, this system provides daylight diffusion, insulation, and full nighttime privacy within a single window installation.

How Does a Double Curtain Track Work?

In the double curtain track system, there are two parallel tracks that are fixed in place using a specialised mount system. There are also two sets of gliders for each track, which allows both curtains to move horizontally without affecting one another.

The physics behind this mechanism involves the following:

1. Front and rear positioning: The sheer drape usually hangs from the track nearest to the window glass, whereas the decorative or blockout drape hangs from the track facing the room. Or sometimes, a modern way of doing it is to hang the sheer on the side of the room over a blackout backing.
2. Independent movement: Each layer operates on its separate channel by moving on independent sliders. You can pull down the sheer layer over the glass panel and keep the blockout open, bring both layers down together, or slide both layers aside and leave the glass panel completely clear.
3. Mounting depth and clearance: Double-track channels need more space, either on the wall or the ceiling, than single-track channels. This is because the folds of the front layer do not rub against the second fabric layer when pulled.
4. Operation options: The tracks can be operated manually using wands, hand-held ropes, or motors concealed in the track headstock.

Why Do Designers Love Double Track Curtains?

Interior decorators regularly choose to go for the dual track system since it addresses functional problems of windows without compromising on their beauty. In a way where you cannot combine the use of hard blinds with the soft drapes, with the dual-track system, you can do just that.

Flexible Light Control

Glare is caused by the reflection of the sun’s rays on the computer screens and bleaches the timber floors and furnishings. Use of a blackout curtain controls glare; however, it does away with natural light. The use of double tracking allows one to close the sheer curtain when maximum sunlight is present to diffuse natural sunlight and maintain visibility of the outside world.

Better Privacy Throughout the Day

Windows made of ordinary glass provide clear views inside the room, especially in contemporary houses where there is much glass area. Sheer materials provide one-way privacy during the day because of the reflection of exterior light, which makes it impossible for anyone outside to see inside the room but allows seeing outside. However, at night, when interior lights come on, the sheer material becomes translucent from the outside.

Layered Interior Design

A single curtain drop may sometimes appear lifeless on a wall. Using two different textures like a sheer linen look with a dense blockout curtain brings dimension and drama into your room. The sheer curtains soften the window frame throughout the day, while the heavy curtain completes the colour theme of the room in the evenings.

Greater Design Flexibility

Double tracks suit all sorts of headings as well as varying weights of fabric and finishes on the tracks. An S-fold (wave fold) sheer can be placed on the front track, and the back track will have a double-pinch pleat blockout curtain. Full-height curtains can be installed where the tracking is hidden behind a ceiling plaster detail or pelmet.

Practical Day-to-Night Operation

Dwelling places need varied atmospheres during the course of 24 hours. The double glazing system ensures that there is no problem while moving from bright day areas to cosy evening areas. The occupants of the house can change the window coverings according to changing climatic conditions anytime.

Double-Track Curtains vs Single Curtains

Comparison of single and double curtain configurations demonstrates how well the layout works for specific functions:

Should You Pair Sheer Curtains With Blockout Curtains?

The combination of custom-made sheer curtains and blockout curtains makes the most efficient system for a double track application.

Both fabrics are used effectively together in that the sheer curtain serves as a sun protector in the daytime, blocking the harmful ultraviolet rays but still providing some degree of visibility. The blockout curtain gives you privacy and keeps the heat in during the freezing winter nights.

Winter temperatures tend to fall dramatically in regions such as the Central West and Blue Mountains during nighttime, while summer daytime is characterised by high solar heat gain. A double-layer consisting of sheer fabric and blockout fabric forms an insulating air layer between the glass and the inside of the room. The insulating air space prevents heat conduction through the glass pane.

A blockout and sheer curtain combination will provide ideal sleep conditions at nighttime and pleasant sunlight during the day in home theatres, nurseries, and master bedrooms.

Where Do Double Track Curtains Work Best?

Double-track curtains adapt well to various residential spaces, though certain rooms benefit more from their functional dual-layer design.

Bedrooms

Sleep is highly affected by dark conditions and temperatures. The master bedroom and kids’ rooms can make use of a blackout blind in order to shield themselves from the sun’s early rays and the lights from the streets. During the daytime, one can open up the blockout and leave the sheer closed.

Living Rooms

Living rooms, lounge areas, and dining spaces will require flexible lighting control for the entire afternoon. With double-track curtains, one can adjust from bright sunshine to an intimate room in the evening after having viewed the TV or entertained guests in the daytime.

Large Windows and Sliding Doors

Glass walls, sliding doors to the outside, and window banks from floor to ceiling might look appealing, but they bring problems in terms of privacy and heat loss. Installing double track systems on large windows softens the lines of the architecture and makes it easier to control big expanses of glass. Separate tracks allow one to pull the curtains away from the doors to let people pass through without moving everything.

Rooms With Strong Sun Exposure

Windows facing north and west experience a lot of solar radiation in Australia. Windows that face west experience a lot of radiant heat in summer afternoons in areas such as Bathurst and Orange where they have no shading. Double tracks make it possible for sheer curtains to scatter direct sunlight throughout the day.

What Should You Consider Before Choosing Double-Track Curtains?

While double-track curtains offer excellent functionality, several structural and practical factors should be evaluated before ordering custom window furnishings.

• Fixing Point Strength: Double tracks hold double the load of single tracks, particularly if there is the requirement of carrying heavy blockout linings and dense velvet curtains. It is necessary to find out where the wall studs or ceiling joists are located while installing the brackets.
• Recess and Projection Space: The double track bracket should have sufficient clearance depth. In case your windows have timber architrave projects, deep window sills, or door handles that project, the backtrack should be located far enough forward to avoid the material snagging on the fittings.
• Fabric Stacking Width: Once the curtains are open fully, their cloth forms a fold at the sides of the window frame (called the stack back). A double track means there are two curtains in one track; therefore, the stack will be larger compared to one curtain. There should be enough space on the wall next to the window frame for the stack to allow light through the glass.
• Heading Style Selection: The type of style of the upper header influences the depth of the folds of the curtains. In the case of the s-fold (or wave fold) header, a uniform curve is achieved but there must be more distance between the brackets than in the traditional pinch pleat or pencil pleat header.
• Motorisation Options: Double-track motorised versions permit you to manage the sheer and blockout curtains through wall switches, remotes, or smartphone applications. Motorisation installation entails considering the wiring or opting for rechargeable lithium-ion battery motors during the first consultation.

Are Double-Track Curtains Worth It?

Double-track curtains cost more money compared to single-track curtains and even basic window blinds since they use double the amount of cloth, a double-tracking system, and more bulky brackets. Nevertheless, in important living spaces and master bedrooms, it is worth the investment in the long run.

Having only one blockout curtain gives you an either/or choice between being in the dark and completely exposed to light. Having only one sheer curtain makes you vulnerable to outside gaze after dark when lights inside are on. A dual track system makes this unnecessary, ensuring access to natural light while providing privacy and style.

For secondary spaces like a laundry room, office, or even a smaller guest bedroom, which require no daylighting during the day, one can simply stick to using a curtain rail or even a window blind.

How to Choose the Right Double-Track Curtains for Your Home

Choosing the right custom curtain combination requires a clear step-by-step approach:

1. List the essential needs of the room. Decide whether the room requires full blackout for sleeping, privacy during daytime, glare prevention, or insulation.
2. Evaluate the window orientation and exposure to sunlight. Consider the orientation of the glass to choose the sheers of appropriate density and diffusion factors.
3. Identify appropriate fabric weights. Select a light and airy sheer fabric (such as linens and polyester blends) that can be paired with a more heavy-duty blockout fabric that will hang well.
4. Select proper curtain headings. Decide on whether to use S-fold headings for a streamlined look or double-pinch pleats if you would like your curtains to have structure.
5. Check track mounting location. Decide whether mounting the track on the ceiling plaster or wall-mounting it above the architrave works better for you, considering the height of the ceiling and cornices.
6. Check for clearance space. Confirm that there is at least 150mm to 200mm clearance space from any architraves, sills and handles so the two curtain layers do not touch and hang evenly.
7. Check operational requirements. Consider if a manual wand, cord, or motorised control will work best for the size of the windows.
8. Arrange proper measurement and installation. Consult professional window furnishing installers to ensure proper alignment and operation of the track.

Why Choose Blinds by Design for Custom Curtains?

Blinds by Design, with more than 25 years’ worth of expertise in custom window furnishing, offers drapery services tailored to fit the architectural style and climatic needs of your house.

If you are planning to construct a modern residence in Bathurst or Orange, renovate a period house in the Blue Mountains, or update your coastal residence in the Lake Macquarie and Belmont region, our mobile team will visit you with fabric samples in hand.

Your window openings are measured accurately, structural fixings are checked, and your custom double-track curtains will move freely and effortlessly for years to come.

Talk to us today about scheduling a free at-home consultation and discover our wide range of custom window treatments.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are double-track curtains better than single curtains?

Double-track curtains provide much greater flexibility than a single curtain due to the possibility to control the sheer and blackout curtains separately. Where a single curtain can only regulate one level of lighting, the double track system ensures diffused daylight illumination by day and total light blocking by night.

Can you put sheer and blockout curtains on the same track?

No, sheer and blockout curtains should not be put on the same track because it makes it difficult to open and close them separately. It is important to have two tracks installed in order for the curtains to slide easily on their own.

Are double-track curtains suitable for bedrooms?

Yes, double-track blinds are perfect choices for bedroom windows. First, the blockout track keeps the sun rays and noises outside, helping you have a good rest. At the same time, the sheer track allows you to have some light and privacy during the daytime when you prepare your bed or work in your room.

Can double-track curtains be used on large windows?

Yes, double-track curtain systems work very efficiently in large windows and wide sliding glass doors. They can be installed from wall to wall or from ceiling to floor, effectively covering large glass areas, yet providing an opportunity to slide the curtains away and reach the outdoor space.

Do double-track curtains provide privacy at night?

Yes, double-track curtains offer total privacy at night when the blockout material is closed. However, while sheer curtains will be transparent during the night when the lights in the house have been switched on, the blockout curtain will ensure that there are no views into your house.

Are double-track curtains available with motorised operation?

Yes, it is possible to motorise both tracks in double-track curtain systems. The motor can be installed on any or both of the track systems that will allow you to control opening and closing of your sheer and blockout curtains using remote control or a smartphone app.