What Is a Dust Board for Window Valances?

Uses

• Custom-made top treatments for windows -- including valances, swags and cornices -- are often mounted on dust boards. The board is sized to fit the window and mounted to the wall. The fabric is applied to the board with hot glue, staples or hook-and-loop tape. Dust-board-mounted valances can hide imperfections such as lackluster window trim and make uneven windows appear symmetrical. If mounted above the top trim, they can also make a window appear taller.

Tips

• Dust boards can also be used for homemade valances and Roman shades. According to ''Curtains: A Design Source Book,'' the dust board is cut to fit the width of the window and then attached to the wall slightly above and on either side of the window frame. The toothed side of a strip of hook-and-loop tape is stapled or tacked to the top of the dust board. The other portion of the tape is sewn to the top of the window treatment and used to attach it to the board, allowing the valance to drape over the window.

Purposes

• The dust board of a valance serves several purposes. It is the piece that holds the valance to the wall, and it is the board to which the window-treatment fabric is attached. The dust board also helps the valance keep its shape and tailored appearance. As implied by its name, it also prevents dust from settling into the folds and pleats at the front of the window valance.

Cleaning

• Good Housekeeping recommends cleaning the dust cap by standing on a step stool and using a hand-held attachment to a vacuum cleaner. Tape rollers for removing lint and pet hair are also good tools for cleaning the tops of dust boards. To minimize dust accumulation, mist a static-eliminating spray on the top of the board.