Window Treatments Can Save Energy Dollars, Keeping Summer Heat Out and Cool In!

Yes, the right custom window treatments can really save your energy dollars in summer, helping keep summer heat out and air-conditioned cool in. The same is true in winter, though your properly-chosen and professionally installed window fashions help accomplish the goal of keeping heat IN and cold OUT!

By adding a layer or two of high “R-value” thermal fabrics or other materials created to add thermal protection to any window, your summer cooling and winter heating costs can decrease while your windows take on a beautiful new look that adds comfort, style and value to your home. And we’re not talking about those dark, heavy quilted shades from years ago anymore… I’m a trained expert in ALL window treatments and styles, and have many gorgeous options that help accomplish this task in any and every room!

The U.S Department of Energy says that about 30% of a home’s heating energy is lost through windows. In cooling seasons, about 76% of sunlight that falls on standard double-pane windows enters to become heat.  Operable window coverings give you the flexibility to choose whether to keep your window coverings open or closed for privacy, and to maximize natural light, take advantage of heat from the sun in the winter, and reduce heat gain in the summer. Options include shades, blinds, draperies or curtains, and some shutters.

Insulated cellular shades are typically considered to have the highest R-values of all window coverings. Air pockets in the honeycomb cross-sections act as insulators, increasing the R-value and reducing the conduction of heat or cold through the window. Insulated cellular shades can be a good choice if seeking significant energy savings from window coverings, as well as comfort, privacy, and increased home resale value. In heating seasons, tightly installed cellular shades can reduce heat loss through windows by 40% or more, which equates to about 20% heating energy savings. In cooling seasons, cellular shades can reduce unwanted solar heat through windows by up to 80%, reducing the total solar gain to 15% or less when installed with a tight fit. See the U.S. Energy Department website: https://www.energy.gov/energysaver/energy-efficient-window-attachments for more.

That’s just the start!  Call us for your free at-home consultation, many other beautiful energy saving options, and we’ll get started making your rooms more comfortable and beautiful, and save you some energy dollars while doing it!