Many Scarborough bungalows have bedrooms that face the street. That means streetlights, headlights and sunrise all arrive at the same window. If you work nights or just sleep lightly, that is a real problem.
Blackout drapes are the most effective fix for a bright bedroom, and they are easier to get right than most people think. This guide covers what to look for, how to hang them, and where Scarborough homes tend to go wrong.
Why Bungalow Bedrooms Get So Much Light
Bungalows sit close to the ground, so street-level light comes straight in. Windows are often wide and low, with little overhang to shade them. Add a bright November sunrise and the room wakes you before your alarm does.
Thin curtains or basic blinds only dim the light. They do not stop it. Real darkness needs a fabric that is dense enough, and a fit that is tight enough, to block the glow around the edges.
What Makes Blackout Drapes Actually Work
Fabric with a true blackout lining
Look for a triple-weave or lined fabric. It should block nearly all light, not just the bright parts. Heavier fabric also reduces street noise a little and adds insulation against drafty glass.
Width and fullness
Drapes should be about two times the width of the window so they hang in full folds. Flat, tight panels leave gaps and look cheaper.
Length and height
Mount the rod high and wide, and let the drapes reach the floor. Light leaks mostly come from the top and sides, so extra coverage there matters more than people expect.
Stop the Glow Around the Edges
Even good drapes can show a thin line of light at the sides. A wraparound rod that bends back to the wall closes that gap. You can also pair the drapes with a roller shade inside the window frame for a second layer.
This combination works especially well for night-shift workers who sleep through the day, because the shade handles the bulk of the light and the drapes finish the job.
Daytime Looks Matter Too
You do not want a bedroom that feels like a cave at 2pm. Choose a colour that suits the room, such as warm grey, deep green or soft taupe, so the drapes look intentional when open. At My Home Blinds, our fabrics are high-end and made to last, so they keep their shape through daily use.
You can also add motorization so the drapes open slowly on a schedule. A gradual morning light is a gentler way to wake up. Learn more about our service area on our Scarborough page.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are blackout drapes completely dark?
They block almost all light through the fabric. Tiny leaks at the edges are possible, which is why proper width and rod placement matter.
Will blackout drapes make my bedroom warmer in summer?
They usually help keep it cooler, because they reduce the sun's heat on the glass. In winter, they add a thin layer of insulation too.
Can I use blackout drapes with a roller shade?
Yes. The shade sits inside the frame and the drapes hang outside it. Together they give you the deepest darkness.
What does it cost?
It depends on size and fabric. Our pricing is competitive, and we give clear quotes during a free consultation.
Ready to Find the Perfect Blinds?
Browse our full collection at myhomeblinds.ca and find the right window treatments for every room in your home.
Have questions or want expert advice? We're here to help:
- 📞 Call us: 647-339-3753
- 📅 Book a free consultation: Book Online
