Choosing the right window covering is hard enough. Put energy efficiency in the mix and things get even harder. Besides adding aesthetical value to yo
Choosing the right window covering is hard enough. Put energy efficiency in the mix and things get even harder. Besides adding aesthetical value to your interior, window coverings should also protect you from heat and cold weather.
The more energy efficient your coverings are, the less you will turn on your ovens and HVAC’s. But as we said, choosing treatment for your old or window replacement is hard and to help you out, here are the top 3 options with the highest energy efficiency:
Cellular Shades
So there are 4 basic types of window treatment: shades, blinds, drapery and shutters. The first two are amazing for decorating and let enough natural light in, but they aren’t that great for heat/cool retain. Of course, this comes with exceptions and cellular shades are more than a decent example.
This is why the most popular option on the market today are these so called cellular shades, also known as honeycomb. Their design is unique and created solely to trap air on the inside. How much they insulate you depends on their manufacturer. The size of their pleats and the amount of layers they have will determine how much you’ll end up saving in bills at the end of the month.
Cellular shades can also be made to open from top to bottom as well as from bottom to top (the mechanism for regular shades). This makes them the ideal window covering since with opening only the top and protecting the bottom, you end up protecting your privacy and allowing natural light to enter as well.
Drapery
When we mention drapery, most immediately think of curtains. However, these two are very different things. Even though curtains are a type of drapery, they are much weaker insulators than drapes. Curtains are usually made from lighter materials and serve as décor to a room whereas drapes are big and heavyweight, providing much more benefits.
Drapery is what we associate with luxury and the kings of the past weren’t fools. Thicker material means more heat kept on the inside. Additionally, drapery creates an amazing look for your room since it comes in different patterns, forms and colors. To choose the ideal one, you should most definitely consult an expert.
Shutters
One of the most underestimated window coverings are shutters. Almost no modern home will install them and yet they increase curb appeal, improve energy efficiency and give an authentic touch to your home. Shutters are made from wood, they are heavy and thick and they will protect you from any kind of bad weather.
Shutters can be exterior and interior. But, to reach their maximum capacity, it is best to combine them with other coverings such as blinds and shades. This window covering is amazing for traditional homes and the styles are limitless. If you still have doubts, check out Café Style and Scandinavian. They are only the entrance to the astonishing world of shutters.
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