What Are The Best Window Coverings to Keep Rooms Cool and Block Sun Heat
Are you struggling with rooms that become unbearably hot due to excessive sunlight? The right window coverings can make a significant difference in keeping your home cool and comfortable. In this blog post, we’ll explore the best window coverings to consider for reducing heat and enhancing comfort in your sun-drenched rooms.
Why Choosing the Right Window Coverings Matters
We’ll cover a variety of options, from solar shades to blackout curtains, that not only improve your home’s energy efficiency but also protect your furniture from harmful UV rays.
1. Solar Shades
Description: Solar shades block UV rays and reduce glare while maintaining an outside view.
Benefits: These shades significantly reduce heat and UV rays, helping to keep rooms cooler without completely darkening the space. They’re a great option if you want to enjoy your view without the intense heat.
2. Cellular Shades (Honeycomb Shades)
Description: Custom Cellular shades have a unique honeycomb structure that traps air, providing excellent insulation.
Benefits: They are highly energy-efficient, keeping heat out in the summer and retaining warmth in the winter. Available in light-filtering and blackout options, cellular shades are versatile and effective for heat control.
3. Reflective Window Film
Description: Apply energy saving window film directly to the window glass to reduce heat by reflecting sunlight.
Benefits: This film significantly reduces heat gain, blocks harmful UV rays, and helps maintain a cooler indoor temperature. It’s an easy solution that can be applied to existing windows.
4. Blackout Curtains
Description: Custom Blackout curtains are thick, opaque drapes specifically crafted to completely block out light.
Benefits: They block heat effectively, making them ideal for bedrooms, especially for those who need to sleep during the day. Blackout curtains can dramatically reduce the temperature in a room by preventing sunlight from entering.
5. Exterior Shades/Awnings
Description: Installed on the exterior of the window, these shades or awnings block sunlight before it reaches the window.
Benefits: They effectively reduce solar heat gain and can be retracted when not needed. Exterior solutions can be particularly beneficial for large windows or patios.
6. Roman Shades with Thermal Lining
Description: Roman shades are made from thick fabric with an additional thermal lining.
Benefits: They add a layer of insulation, effectively blocking heat and light. Roman shades with thermal lining combine style and functionality, providing a classic look while keeping your home cool.
» Read next: The Best Window Treatments for Your Home in 2024
7. Dual Roller Shades
Description: Dual roller shades combine a blackout shade and a solar shade in one system.
Benefits: They offer the flexibility to block heat and light completely with the blackout shade or reduce heat and glare with the solar shade. Dual roller shades are perfect for those who want the best of both worlds.
8. Plantation Shutters
Description: Interior shutters made from wood or faux wood that can be adjusted to control light and airflow.
Benefits: Custom plantation shutters offer excellent insulation and can be adjusted to reflect sunlight away from the room. They also add a timeless, elegant touch to your interior decor.
Bonus: Save on energy Cost
-
- Heat Reduction: Effective window coverings block or reflect sunlight, preventing excessive heat from entering your home. This keeps indoor temperatures lower, especially during hot summer months.
- Insulation: Some window coverings, like cellular shades, provide an extra layer of insulation, reducing heat transfer through windows. This helps maintain a consistent indoor temperature, requiring less energy to cool the space.
- Lower Air Conditioning Usage: By keeping rooms cooler naturally, the reliance on air conditioning decreases. This reduction in AC usage translates directly into lower energy bills.
- Efficiency: Energy Efficient Window Treatments that block UV rays and reduce heat gain contribute to overall energy efficiency. This means your HVAC system doesn’t have to work as hard to maintain a comfortable temperature, further reducing energy consumption and costs.
Pro tip: Combine With Double Cell Cellular Shades For Super Energy Savings!
Because of the two layers, double cell cellular shades give you better insulation from loud noise. They also insulate and increase your energy efficiency much better than single-cell shades. Pair them with automation, and you have super energy savings!
Additional Tips for Maximizing Temp Control
- Layering: Combine different types of window coverings, such as pairing solar shades with blackout curtains, for maximum heat control.
- Light Colors: Choose light-colored coverings to reflect more sunlight and reduce heat absorption.
Choosing the right window coverings can transform your hot, uncomfortable room into a cool, inviting space. Whether you opt for solar shades, blackout curtains, or any other solution, you’ll be able to enjoy a more comfortable and energy-efficient home.
Keep Your Home Cool This Summer with the Right Window Coverings!
Choosing the right window treatments can make all the difference in keeping your home cool during the hot summer months. Our no-obligation complimentary design service can help you find the best options for heat control.
Call us today at 800-828-2003 to learn more and set up your Free Design Consultation. Enjoy a cooler, more comfortable home with the ideal window coverings!