WINDOW TREATMENTS TO KEEP LIGHT OUT WINDOWS

The schedule can be seasonally optimized to reduce heating and cooling loads while maximizing natural light and home comfort. Some cellular shades include the option of automation, allowing the blinds to open and close on a set schedule.

WINDOW TREATMENTS TO KEEP LIGHT OUT WINDOWS

In cooling seasons, cellular shades can reduce unwanted solar heat through windows by up to 60%, reducing the total solar gain to 20% when installed with a tight fit.Ĭellular shades that operate on side tracks are most effective at increasing the R-value of windows, and those that open from both the top and bottom allow users to most effectively control daylight entering the home. In heating seasons, tightly installed cellular shades can reduce heat loss through windows by 40% or more, which equates to about 10% heating energy savings. Insulated cellular shades can be a good choice if you are looking for significant energy savings from their window coverings, as well as comfort, privacy, and increased home resale value. The air pockets in the honeycomb cross-sections act as insulators, increasing the R-value and reducing the conduction of heat through the window. Insulated cellular shades are typically considered to have the highest R-values of all window coverings.

Some can be adjusted from the top, from the bottom, or both. Insulated shades contain one or more air layers in a honeycomb cross-section. Insulated cellular shades are made of pleated materials that are designed to fold up, accordion-like, usually at the top of the window, but sometimes at either the top or the bottom. Learn more about the benefits, drawbacks, and installation of automated window coverings. Some window coverings offer automated options, which make the easier to operate coverings located in hard to reach places. You may also want to try switching the ones that are opened and closed through the day to maximize light and heat from the sun when you want it. For natural light, open those window coverings that don’t get direct sunlight. In the summer, you may want to keep window coverings closed to reduce heat gain. through the day-especially those that receive direct sunlight. If it’s winter and likely to be sunny, open the window coverings in the morning to allow the sun to heat your home. Don't fall into this habit - be strategic about which coverings you open and close throughout the day. Most window coverings are operable, and yet 75% of residential window coverings remain in the same position every day, according to a study by the U.S.

Reduce unwanted solar heat gain through windows when it’s hot.

Reduce day and nighttime heat loss through windows when it’s cold.

In addition to the window coverings, storm windows with low-e coatings and/or multi-layer glazing are effective at improving thermal performance of windows and reducing solar heat gain. Window coverings can help with this loss of energy by providing comfort, regulating temperatures, and lowering energy bills. The exact savings will depend on the type of attachment, the season, the climate, and how the attachment is used.

In cooling seasons, about 76% of sunlight that falls on standard double-pane windows enters to become heat. Why use Energy-efficient Window Attachments?Įnergy-efficient window attachments are important for both new and existing homes.About 30% of a home's heating energy is lost through windows. Window attachments are products which can be attached to a window either internally or externally to improve energy performance, create a more comfortable environment, reduce glare, provide privacy and enhance the appearance and value of your home.

Window treatments to keep light out