Windows provide our homes with light, warmth, and ventilation. But that’s not all! They can also have a negative impact on our home’s energy efficiency. In fact, the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) estimates that windows typically account for between 25 and 40 percent of an older home’s annual heating and cooling costs. Reduce your energy costs with energy-efficient window treatments. Here are some window treatments that can reduce heat loss in the winter and heat gain in the summer.
The Benefits of Window Treatments
- Light control
- UV protection
- Improved comfort
- Improved energy efficiency
- Improved privacy protection
- Enhances the visual appeal of your rooms
Energy-Efficient Window Treatments
Solar Shades
You will find that you have several options to consider when selecting what type of energy-efficient window treatments are right for your home. Of the available options, solar shades can reduce heat gain in the summer by up to 65 percent on south-facing windows, and 77 percent on west-facing windows. Solar shades can be installed inside or out. Exterior solar shades will afford you protection from the sun’s harmful UV rays and head, and well as increase your privacy.
Window Blinds
Window blinds, whether vertical or horizontal, are more effective at reducing heat gain in the summer than heat loss in the summer because of the numerous openings between the blinds slats. When completely closed, highly reflective window blinds will reduce your heat gain by up to 45 percent in the summer months. These blinds allow you more control than solar shades. Because wood is a natural insulator, wood blinds offer the best energy efficiency for your money.
Draperies
A drapery’s ability to reduce heat loss and gain is dependent on several factors, such as, fabric type and color. Medium and dark colored, closed weave draperies are honestly going to provide you with most bang for your buck, in terms of energy efficiency. Insulated, room-darkening draperies, are also efficient in regards to energy consumption. These draperies are also practical, stylish, and can make most any room in your home more efficient while enhancing its visual appeal.
Source: U.S. Department of Energy