Window treatments typically create a specific look in your interior spaces. However, they can block out the sun’s UV rays and heat, improving energy efficiency. Keep reading to find out more and learn how you can also use that approach to reduce your energy costs in your home or business.
Why Your Window Increases Your Energy Consumption
Windows without UV blocking capabilities allow the sun’s UV rays to enter your spaces along with heat or cold. Most people typically put window treatments up to block the view from the outside and to coordinate with their interior design. However, another essential aspect of window treatments is their ability to block out heat and cold and help preserve your interior by blocking UV rays.
Energy Efficient Window Treatments
There are many types of window treatments on the market today. The standard window treatment may not block much heat, cold, and UV rays entering a window. However, there are plenty of options you can choose that block these elements.
The average home loses about 30% of its heat through the widows during the cold weather. Alternately, approximately 76% of the heat that hits your window enters your space. You can see how that can cause your HVAC or heating and cooling units to work harder. Using energy-efficient window coverings helps drastically reduce those figures and helps your heating and cooling units operate more efficiently with less stress.
Types of Energy-Efficient Window Treatments
Several types of window treatments can effectively block the heat from escaping and the heat from entering. Some window treatments are designed specifically for this function. It’s recommended that you choose a window treatment that offers insulating capabilities and blocks the UV rays of the sun.
- Blinds
- Roller Shades
- Roman shades
- Cellular Shades
Blinds
Blinds are a practical choice for many homes and spaces. They provide a layer of additional insulation, helping to regulate the temperature inside a room. Typically made of horizontal or vertical slats, they can be adjusted or tilted to control the amount of sunlight and heat entering a space.
Roller Shades
Roller shades are made of a single piece of fabric that can be pulled down to cover the window completely. They’re effective in blocking out sunlight, reducing solar heat gain, and preventing glare.
Roman Shades
Roman shades are typically made of fabric instead of plastic or PVC material. Like roller shades, roman shades are effective in blocking sunlight. With the various fabric choices available, they offer a stylish and versatile option that offers insulating properties to help regulate temperature.
Cellular Shades
Cellular shades are designed with a unique honeycomb structure that creates pockets of air. These air pockets act as insulators, providing an additional layer of thermal resistance in both summer and winter.
Shutters
Shutters are great for protecting your home from the outside and preventing heat from escaping or entering. This option is more costly but offers more effective protection from the elements and helps reduce your energy costs simultaneously.
Find Out More
If you would like to learn more about your window treatment options for reducing your energy bill and improving the overall appearance of your home or business, reach out to a reputable company that can provide options like The Blind Gallery.
If you would like to get shutters Delaware Valley or custom blinds Main Line, reach out to us today, and we’ll be happy to work with you to get the right option.