The Benefits of Energy Efficient Window Treatments

Window treatments and coverings can do more than just tie a room together. The proper selection can actually reduce both heat loss in the winter and heat gain in the summer. Paired with adequately calked and weather-stripped windows, window treatments can reduce electricity costs and generate power. Check out some of the ways different types of treatments can be functional and fashionable.

Interior Blinds

Window blinds come with both horizontal and vertical slats, and each of these variations is effective when it comes to beating the summer heat.

Unlike shades, blinds offer flexibility in the summer, because you have the option to adjust the slats to control the amount of light and ventilation that you let in. They can also be adjusted to direct sunlight onto a light-colored ceiling which will diffuse light without much heat or glare. On a sunny day, blinds have the ability to reduce heat gain by 45%.

Draperies

While it can be difficult to generalize a drapery’s energy efficiency due to the wide variety on the market, there are several factors that play into drapery’s ability to reduce heat loss and gain. Among factors to consider are fabric type (closed or open weave) and color.

During summer days, it is a good idea to close draperies that receive direct sunlight. Some studies have shown that medium colored draperies with white-plastic backing can reduce heat gain by nearly 33%. Alternatively, when the weather is cold, conventional drawn draperies can reduce heat loss by up to 10%. Considering this, you should close all draperies at night during winter months.

Shades

Surprisingly, window shades can be one of the simplest and most effective window treatments for energy efficiency. In fact, dual shades that can be reversed with the change of season provide for the greatest efficiency when the reflective surface faces the warmest side. The caveat here is that they need to be drawn all day to be effective. Additionally, shades should be mounted as close to the glass as possible in order to create a sealed air space.

Shutters

Exterior shutters should be integrated into your homes architecture and may provide the best source of insulation. Most exterior shutters have operating systems that allow control from indoors which encourages daily use.

Louvered shutters work best to keep out the summer heat. They allow ventilation and block some direct radiation while still allowing natural light to enter a room. Solid shutters, on the other hand, protect against the winter cold and summer heat. Solid shutters are insulators consisting of wood panels, a vapor barrier and sometimes a decorative covering. Fitted properly, they provide an air space between the shutter and window. Roll-down metal shutters are great for protection but aren’t that efficient when it comes to saving energy.

Several other products that we offer have energy saving abilities.To learn more about our energy efficient window treatments, check out our stock which include a full line of Hunter Douglas products, blinds, drapery, shades, shutters, sheers and top treatments.