By Sophie Azouaou
May 13, 2020
Window coverings are an essential part of the design theme in your home but did you know they can also help reduce your energy bill?
In cold weather, windows are usually the single largest source of heat loss from our homes.
During the summer, windows can generate a great amount of heat.
While walls vary in their insulating capacity from R12 (common building code value in cold climates) to R40 (considered super-insulated), windows may be as low as R2. High efficiency windows may reach R6 or R7.
Insulation is one of the many benefits the proper window coverings will provide you. Window treatments can create real insulation to keep a room warm during the winter or cool during the summer. The right selection of energy efficient window treatments will reduce heating and air conditioning costs.
Some popular choices:
Cellular roller shades: Like the Sonnettes. Their construction increases insulation and reduces the effect of cold and icy air. They come in a variety of fabrics, and can be lined for a room darkening effect to create a complete black out. This will increase the insulation.
The Duette Honeycomb Shades. These shades have a state-of-the-art, patented, honeycomb-within it- design offering the industry’s highest level of energy efficiency. The shades are so energy efficient they can reduce energy loss up to 50%.
The honeycomb shades trap air in distinct pockets to help keep your house cool in the summer and warm in the winter.
Horizontal sheer shades: The Silhouettes are a classic from Hunter Douglas.
Soft horizontal fabric vanes that float on a sheer backing allow you to achieve infinite combinations of light control, view-through and privacy. The sheer fabric back panel diffuses sunlight, transforming it into a warm glow while filtering out UV rays. They also create an insulation in summer as sunlight is reflected back out.
Vertical sheer shades; The Luminettes form Hunter Douglas are a beautiful product that brings elegance in any room while giving great insulation in summer or cold weather which increases energy efficiency.
All traditional lined drapes: Have good insulation against cold and heat, and can be lined with a quilt to double the insulation.
Shutters: Have a great insulating value not only against cold but noise as well. Ideal for urban living. They come in wood, hybrid or Polysatin for humid climates.
Note: These are just a few examples as there are many other options of insulated window coverings available today which can provide maximum insulation.
CALL US TODAY FOR A FREE CONSULTATION. We will help you select the right options for your home.
WE ARE HUNTER DOUGLAS SPECIALISTS.