The Top Energy Efficient Window Blinds that will help Keep you Warm in the New Year

When it comes to energy efficiency, window blinds aren’t usually the first thing that comes to a homeowner’s mind. Usually when homeowners think of energy-efficient products, they think of dishwashers, refrigerators, washers and dryers, no one really stops to think about products that don’t use any energy, but can still save it. That’s where window treatments such as no fixing blinds come in.

While they make great shade during the summer months, traditional wooden slats in window blinds don’t offer much in the way of insulation because there are too many gaps for the air to seep through. However, there have been many innovations in the window coverings industry in recent years and energy efficient blinds and shades are now more easy to come by then they have ever been before. But if you want the best window coverings for insulating your home against the winter chill, be sure to check these types of treatments out for your best results:

Drapes:

Drapes and curtains are great window coverings in their own right, but to maximize their insulating qualities, they are best when layered with another treatment such as window blinds.

There are many factors that influence a drapery’s ability to reduce heat gain or loss; fabric type, color, and fit are among a few of them. Other factors that contribute to the amount of heat gain or lost through these window coverings are how closely they fit to the windows, whether or not they can be held together via Velcro or a tie of some sort, and whether or not heat is escaping through the top. You can prevent heat escaping through the top by using a cornice or a valance.
In general, closed draperies built to withstand heat gain can reduce it by 33%. If the draperies or curtains are close fitting and combined with another window treatment such as plantation shutters or pleated shades, they can help insulate your home by reducing heat loss by 25% during winter.**

Shades:

If installed correctly with a tight fit, these window treatments can be one of the most effective coverings in terms of saving energy.
There are many types of shades to choose from, the most energy efficient shades are cellular or honeycomb shades, as the thick cellular fabrics provide an insulating layer to help keep rooms at an ideal temperature.

Shutters:

One of the most popular window treatments in general, shutters, can provide your home with energy saving qualities.
Interior shutters that have been customized to perfectly fit your windows can offer fantastic insulation for your home and provide benefits during both summer and winter by creating an insulating buffer between your home and the outdoors.

Every home and every homeowner is different, to find the perfect window blinds, shades, shutters or drapes for your home, talk to your local Budget Blinds and schedule a free in home consultation. The style consultant will find the perfect combination of treatments to make your house a warmer and more beautiful home.

* https://www.nrdc.org/living/energy/energy-out-window.asp

**https://energy.gov/energysaver/articles/energy-efficient-window-treatments