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Types of Window Treatments for Better Insulation

Photo by: Bigstockphoto
Photo by: Bigstockphoto

Did you know that the right window treatment could lower your monthly energy bill? Apart from improving the aesthetic of the space, window treatments improve insulation and regulate indoor temperatures. With the right material and proper placement, you too can save hundreds of dollars on your electric bill. Below are the best types of window treatments for enhanced insulation:

Shades

The United States Department of Energy or DOE considers window shades as the simplest, most effective way to save energy. When installed the right way, shades seal in a space tightly, minimizing heat gain and loss. By installing window shades, your home could stay cool in the summer and warm during the winter season!

We recommend using shades that feature double layers of fabric for added functionality. Choose one that combines light fabric with darker fabric for better insulation. The light fabric reflects the heat and the darker fabric absorbs heat.

Blinds

Window blinds help reduce solar heat, cuts down glare, improves ventilation, regulate natural light, and boost privacy. When closed, the blinds reflect the light, reducing heat by up to 45%. Window blinds come in two kinds: interior and exterior blinds. Both types work well in terms of deflecting light.

However, exterior blinds are more effective when it comes to blocking heat. That’s because exterior blinds inhibit heat from penetrating the window and warming up the room. The only downside is that exterior blinds have to be installed on a new structure. It is hard to install exterior blinds on an existing building.

Drapes

Drapes make a great insulated window treatment depending on the color and quality of the fabric used. This window treatment may help insulate the home, protecting from heat loss and gains.

Just like shades, the color of the fabric will affect the insulating properties of drapes. Darker colors will absorb heat so they are best used during the winter season. Lighter colors reflect light, keeping the living space cool and comfy during the summer season.

For optimal performance, make sure the drapes create a tight seal. Hang the drapes from a cornice or near the ceiling down the floor. Just like blinds, drapes reduce solar heat by as much as 33% during the summer season. However, the drapes should create a tight seal to achieve maximum performance. As such, you want to hang the drapes as close to the window as possible for optimal insulation.

Awnings

Awnings keep the exterior of the home stylish and unique. These window treatments are very useful too. They protect the structure from the sun, reduce heat, and maintain a cool, comfortable temperature. In fact, external awnings reduce solar heat by up t0 65% for south-facing windows and 77% for west-facing windows.

For optimal insulation, go for opaque, tightly woven awnings. Reserve light fabrics during the summer season for better ventilation. We also recommend retractable awnings for colder seasons. The retractable awnings help maximize sunlight that pours into the window. Because it is retractable, you can also control the amount of light that enters the room.


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