Window treatments are often seen simply as decorating tools, with patterns and styles designed to coordinate with any decor. However, you can also use your window curtains, blinds, and drapes to make your home more energy efficient. Did you realize that simply controlling the amount of sunlight entering your home can affect how much you pay in energy costs? Did you know that drapes can actually help insulate your home in winter? For reduced energy bills and a more energy-efficient home, it's time for the right window treatments for your home.
Window Treatments Reduce Heat Gain in Summer
Have you ever stood in the sunlight to warm up on a cool day? The warmth of the sun's rays, known as solar radiation, also heats up your house. This can be very helpful in the winter when you're trying to warm your house, but during the summer, additional heat is not what you want! The warmth of the sun's rays means your air conditioner will have to work much harder to keep your home a comfortable temperature. However, window blinds can be highly effective at preventing sunlight from entering your windows, keeping them from heating your home as much. In fact, lowered, closed blinds can reduce heat gain by up to 45%. Available in various materials, styles, and designs, both horizontal and vertical blinds are effective for increasing your home's energy efficiency.
Window Treatments Decrease Heat Loss in Winter
In the winter, open window shades, blinds, and curtains allow the sunlight to enter-creating the opportunity for solar heat gain. At night and on particularly frigid days, though, your windows can let the cold in via conduction. Draperies can actually serve as insulation, helping to prevent this heat transfer and keeping your home warm for less. The energy efficiency of your window curtains is affected by a vast number of variables, including fabric weight and color as well as lining material and installation. One study showed that medium colored drapes with a white backing could reduce approximately 33% of energy loss. Because of the huge range of options in curtains, you'll need to pay careful attention to the fabrics and especially linings and backings to ensure you get improved energy efficiency from your drapes.
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Visit your local window treatment outlet today to learn more about the options for increasing your home's energy efficiency. When you match your home with just the right window blinds, curtains, shades, or draperies, you get the ideal combination of beautiful looks and the energy-efficient performance that you need!
Statistics from the U.S. Department of Energy.
Matt Gallo is a home improvement specialist and the Internet marketing manager for Prospect Genius, a provider of affordable marketing solutions for local businesses.
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