There are plenty of window treatments out there that can not only improve your home’s interior but also reduce energy bills. While it’s difficult to say no to natural light, it tends to raise temperatures and cause discomfort in the warm months of summer.
However, you don’t need to sacrifice natural light or your outdoor view to stay cool. Energy-saving window coverings offer flexibility, allowing you to enjoy the view, sunshine, and cool outdoor breeze while blocking heat and UV rays. They can keep your home comfortable and save on energy costs without having to live in darkness.
Here are the six best window covering options to beat the heat during summer.
Aluminum Shutters
Aluminum shutters are an excellent option for reducing the impact of summer heat. These shutters create a physical barrier on your windows that reflects the sun’s rays and slows down the transfer of heat into your home.
Aluminum is a highly effective heat-resistant material, which means you can save on both cooling bills in summer and heating bills in winter. To maximize the benefits, opt for lighter colors like cream, white, or soft grey, as they reflect the sun, unlike darker shades that absorb more heat.
Double Roller Blinds
Double roller blinds combine the functionality of traditional roller blinds with two different types of roller fabric. The innermost layer, usually made of sunscreen fabric, allows natural light to enter your home while preventing outsiders from peeking in during the day.
The second layer of outdoor window roller blinds consists of block-out fabric, which completely blocks out the light. This also ensures complete privacy during the day and night.
Indoor Window Shutters
Interior window shutters are placed inside the window frame and provide complete window coverage when closed. Made from solid materials such as wood, faux wood, or vinyl, these shutters effectively trap hot air between the glass and the shutters, preventing it from entering your room.
By closing the slats or louvers completely, you can block hot, direct sunlight during the scorching summer months, helping you stay cooler.
Insulated Cellular Shades
Cellular shades, also known as honeycomb shades, feature vertically stacked air pockets that act as insulators. These shades not only block harsh sunlight during the summer but also add insulation during the winter for drafty windows.
The air pockets trap warm air inside your home in colder months and keep cool, air-conditioned air inside during the summer while preventing heat from the sun. However, it’s important to note that fabric-based cellular shades may not be suitable for overly humid areas or kitchens where they are exposed to moisture and cooking odors.
Heavy Curtains and Drapes
Choosing heavier curtains and drapes can significantly reduce heat gain from sunlight and make your home more comfortable. The fabric selection plays a crucial role in how well your curtains control heat. Light-colored fabrics reflect light, helping to keep your home cooler, while darker colors retain heat, which can be beneficial during the winter months.
If you prefer dark-colored curtains, opt for ones with a light-colored backing to aid in reflecting light. Fabrics with a tight weave are also more effective at reducing heat transfer.
Exterior Window Awnings
Exterior window awnings provide shade and block direct sunlight, keeping your windows cooler and enhancing the efficiency of your indoor energy-efficient window treatments. Modern awnings are usually made of low-maintenance synthetic fabrics that can handle water and fading.