If you're one of the many people who have decided to do a little home decorating, chances are you're just as baffled as everyone else about where to start.

While refurbishing a room can be an overwhelming task, a good place to begin is by envisioning what it is that you want the room to convey. Do you want it to be warm, airy, romantic, cozy or something else altogether? From there, experts say, windows can be a good starting point.

But even window treatments can be confusing. Windows come in all shapes and sizes - from bay to picture - with just as many ways to cover them.

It's important to keep in mind that not all window treatments serve the same purpose. Some help conserve energy (good for those rooms that get a lot of sun), while others block out light (good for bedrooms and media rooms). Knowing what your options are can save time and money later.

Comfortex BlindCrafter Centers provide the following tips to help you choose the best window treatments for your home:

* Think sheer solutions. Today's sheer window shades are nothing like what you used to see on grandma's windows. They allow you to control light levels and privacy and help soften the look of your home. In addition, you can choose sheers with light-filtering or room-darkening options.

* Go cordless. For parents concerned about kids becoming entangled in window shade cords, there are a number of cordless options that are beautiful, stylish and safe.

* Consider faux wood. If you love the idea of wood blinds, but not the warping, cracking or fading that goes along with them, think about engineered or faux wood. Blending the beauty of real wood with the durability of man-made materials, these "wood" shutters and blinds are built to last a lifetime.

* Fall in love with fabrics. If you love drapery fabrics, but want the benefits of window shade hardware, consider roman or roller shades. Both combine the operating benefits of a window shade with the subtle textures and patterns of drapery style fabric.

* Take a look at verticals. Look for vertical blinds that are energy efficient, use soft fabrics and operate without the use of bottom weights and chains.