Incorporating Energy Efficiency When Choosing Window Treatments

While there is nothing wrong with choosing window treatments for their appearance and function, you can go one step farther and increase the energy efficiency of your home. The advantages include a more comfortable home, lower utility bills, extending the life of your heating and cooling equipment, and protecting your furnishings. Here are some tips for energy-efficient window treatments:

1. Understand the difference between sunlight and daylight. It is a common misconception that you have to live in a veritable cave to keep UV rays from damaging your flooring, upholstery, and other belongings and heating up your home. You can still enjoy natural daylight while cutting down on the adverse effects of sunlight. Not only is daylight important for your mood, but it also provides for long-term health benefits.
2. Energy efficiency comes from insulative properties, not just sunlight-blocking ones. You can opt for shades, blinds, or draperies that offer additional layers to provide insulation and reduce sound. Consider materials that work with your windows to cut down on drafts and keep cooled and heated air inside.
3. Consider easy-to-use window treatments. It does little good to choose an insulative or UV-blocking window covering only to never close it over the window because it is too much of a bother. There are many motorized options on the market today that make it easy to operate so you’ll gain the benefits you had hoped for.

Here at Blind & Shutters Depot, we are happy to help you choose the right window treatments for all your needs. Our wide selection makes it easy to consider all aspects – appearance, functionality, durability, and energy efficiency. We take the time to listen to what you want and provide recommendations we are confident will give you the best results. Contact us today to learn more.