Tips for Finding Energy Efficient Window Treatments

Your windows are one of the best features of your home. Not only do they let natural light into your living space, but they also let you see the natural beauty of the outside world.  

Many homeowners love their windows and with good reason. These unique architectural features help you connect with the outside world in a way you cannot when you are trapped inside four walls.  

However, your windows are responsible for increased energy costs. About 30% of an average home’s heating energy is lost through its windows. Further, in cooling seasons (i.e., when you have to turn your air conditioning on) 76% of the sunlight that falls on your windows enters your home and becomes heat. 

In short, this means that regardless of the season, if your home is using heating or air conditioning, your windows are increasing your energy bills.  

The solution is simple. Appropriate window treatments help keep your energy bills low by insulating your home from outdoor temperatures.  

This post will give you some tips for deterring energy loss through your windows, and some of the best window treatments for preventing energy loss. 

Understanding Energy Loss 

There are two major ways that we can think of energy loss resulting from windows. 

The first way is when hot air leaks out due to imperfect window sealing.  

The second way is when heat comes in through sunlight or gaps in the window’s base. 

Window coverings are the best (and most basic) way to stop energy loss. But some window treatments are less effective than others.  

The window treatment's effectiveness is determined by the type of covering, method of attachment, and climate.  Adjustable window treatments are best because you can alter them based on time of day and weather.  

However, for adjustable window treatments to be effective, you must take the time to move them throughout the day. According to the US Department of Energy, 75% of residential window coverings remain in the same place all day.  

In winter you should open your window treatments to let the light in, and in summer your coverings are better left closed to ensure that cool air is kept inside.  

If you want natural light during the summer, identify windows that do not get direct sunlight and experiment with leaving them open during the day. 
 

A Term to Know 

When you are looking at window treatments with an eye for reducing energy cost, familiarize yourself with the term R-Value. R-Value determines your window covering’s thermal resistance and can help you save time when comparing different window treatments.  

Ratings go from R-1 to R-6 and higher numbers mean better thermal resistance. The type of material used is not the only important factor. A properly installed window treatment will have a better R-Value than one that has been improperly installed. 

The Best Window Treatments to Prevent Energy Loss 

While proper installation of your window treatments is one of the best ways to prevent energy loss through your windows, some types of window treatments are better than others.  

Below are five energy-efficient window treatments to consider for your home.  

Solar Shades 

Do you want the benefits of energy-efficient window treatments without having to sacrifice your view? You are in luck! Solar shades come in many different transparencies and block sun heat and harmful UV rays.  

Drapery 

Drapes are excellent for preventing energy loss through your windows. They are usually made from a thick fabric, so sunlight has a tough time penetrating your room. Drapes can be moved and adjusted easily so you can make changes as the sun moves throughout the day.  

Cellular Shades 

Cellular shades were invented in the 1970s to address and prevent in-home energy loss. Cellular shades have a honeycomb structure that creates pockets of air that heat from the sun cannot penetrate.  

Shutters 

One of the oldest and most proven methods of keeping down energy costs, shutters are an excellent window treatment for keeping your energy bill low. Shutters tend to have fewer gaps than other energy-efficient window treatments meaning there is less space for hot air to seep in and cold air to leak out.  

Roman Shades 

Roman shades tend to be made from a thick, almost industrial material. This means that they are excellent at keeping sunlight and heat out. Roman shades come in many different styles so you can keep your energy bills low without sacrificing fashion. 

Keep Your Energy Bills Low with the Best Window Treatments 

It’s no secret that we all want to reduce our energy bills. One of the best ways to keep your bills low is by preventing energy loss through your windows with appropriate window treatments. 

However, if you are planning to upgrade your window treatments to make them more energy-efficient, you need the widest selection.  

Nowhere in Southern Ohio or Northern Kentucky has a better or higher quality selection than Blinds Plus and More. 

At Blinds Plus and More, we take window treatments seriously. We know that style, selection, and proper installation are important to you. They are important to us too! That is why we work with you to select and install the perfect window treatments for your home. 

When you want superior window treatments you need to reach out to Blinds Plus and More.  

Reach out to Blinds Plus and More today!