Changing outlooks

March 15, 2008 at 10:07PM

Changing outlooks Among the new products providing quick-change makeovers for your windows: "Tableaux" (pictured right), made of composite wood resin from recycled materials, is a wrought-iron look faux product from Budget Blinds.

In 30 designs and eight finishes, the pieces can be customized to fit any size and shape or designed to specification. The company said the material can be waterproofed for outdoor areas, too. Prices start around $27 a square foot; go to www.budgetblinds.com for details and locations.

Gila has augmented its line of window films for heat, glare and fade control with several etched, textured and "stained glass" choices, ranging in looks from rice paper to palm leaves.

Users peel a layer on the film to reveal the adhesive, which is activiated by soap and water. The company says the light adhesive can be removed with glass cleaner. Several roll sizes, priced $17 to $30 per 3-foot by 6.5-foot roll; a 1-foot by 6.5-foot roll is designed specifically for sidelights. Details and swatch samples at www.gilafilms.com; available at Lowe's stores.

KIM YEAGER

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