While window treatments and coverings are mostly for decoration purposes, they can also help you save energy and money. In fact, some of them are known to reduce heat gain in the summer as well as heat loss in the winter. You can use window treatments to shade your windows or to let some sunshine or daylight as desired.
Here are some of the energy-efficient window treatments that can benefit you for the long term.
Blinds
If you want to reduce heat gain during hot summer months, blinds are an effective choice. Image Blinds notes that the slats provide flexibility in the summer, allowing you to control light and ventilation. Exterior roller blinds, on the other hand, offer shade while letting some air and sunshine to enter through windows.
Shutters
Both interior and exterior window shutters do a wonderful in reducing heat loss and gain. They are an ideal window insulation system and they also offer additional security, weather protection, with no thermal shock to windows if left closed. It is a good idea to combine shutters with other window coverings like curtains for extra insulation.
Awnings
Window awnings can shade a side of your home while helping reduce solar heat gain in the summer. It is best to choose awnings made from tightly woven and light-coloured fabric to reflect more sunlight. Keep in mind that they also need ventilation to avoid hot air from being trapped in the window. Eyelets or openings along the sides and tops can offer ventilation.
Mesh Screens
These window screens are known to diffuse solar radiation and lessen heat gain in summer months. You can mount screens in an exterior frame to cover the entire window. If you don’t want this on all your windows, you can have a removable reflective mesh that you can stick on using Velcro, so you take it down in winter.
Reduce your heating and cooling bills with these energy-efficient window treatments. Just be sure to choose quality coverings and shades from reliable suppliers to effectively reduce unwanted heat loss and gain.
