Energy Efficient Window Coverings to Save on Your Utility Bills

If you’re looking for a way to save on your utility bills, energy efficient window coverings may be the answer. By installing custom window blinds or other shades, you can regulate the temperature in your home and reduce the strain on your heating and electricity bills.

The Need for Energy Efficient Window Coverings

Here in Mississauga and in the Greater Toronto Area, we know how important it is to save money on our energy costs. Whether it’s increased sunlight that could trigger your home’s air conditioning in the summer or reduced sunlight in the winter that can make your furnace work overtime, it’s important to have proper window coverings for your home to keep you comfortable and save money at the same time!

Not only can energy efficient window coverings regulate temperature, but they can also block out harsh sunlight and provide added privacy to your home. Plus, they come in a variety of styles and designs to match any décor.

How Do Energy-Saving Window Treatments Work in Cold and Warm Climates?

Not only do certain window coverings block UV rays from entering your home, but they can also help prevent the loss of heat that may occur through certain windows.

Depending on the window covering you select, they could incorporate features that can be tailored for high energy efficiency during the changing Canadian seasons.

Provides Insulation in Winters

Some window coverings provide insulation to help retain heat in the winter months and prevent heat loss and increase furnace efficiency. Cellular window shades are one of the best options for insulating your home in the winters.

Controls Heat in Summers

On the flip side, certain window coverings (like outdoor-mounted solar shades) are created to help reflect heat in the warmer months and block UV rays to help increase the efficiency of your home’s air conditioning.

Top Window Covering Options That Will Save Energy

There are four categories of window coverings that can help save you energy: window shades, window blinds, curtains & drapery, and vinyl shutters.

Window Shades

A shade is a single piece of material that covers the whole window. It can be opened and closed to allow portions of the outdoor elements, like sunlight, into the home.

• Cellular Shades. Cellular shades use a honeycomb design that promotes insulation during the winter months due to the multiple layers of fabric interlaced in the honeycomb design. Since the shades can be easily raised and lowered, the user can regulate the temperature easily and efficiently.
• Solar Shades. Solar shades, also known as sunscreens, are made with a reflective material to block and reflect sunlight from entering the home. In addition to helping regulate the temperature in the warmer months, they also provide added privacy for your home.
• Roman Shades. Roman shades have a soft, fabric appearance that can be raised and lowered to control light and visibility. In addition to their stylish look, they are also energy efficient due to their insulating properties.

Window Blinds

Window blinds consist of several horizontal slats that can be adjusted by opening them or closing them tightly together to control light and visibility into the room.

• Faux wood blinds. Faux wood blinds have similar benefits to real wood blinds (adjustable slats for controlling light and added insulation) but at a lower cost. Additionally, they are less likely to warp or crack in varying temperatures compared to real wood window coverings.
• Aluminum Mini Blinds. Aluminum mini blinds are a budget-friendly option that offer insulation in colder climates and the ability to control light in warmer climates. They can also be easily cleaned and maintained.
• Vertical Blinds. Vertical blinds consist of taller, vertical slats that can be adjusted to regulate sunlight and temperature in your home. Some vertical blinds even come with an added feature of UV protection, providing added energy efficiency for your home.

 

Curtains & Drapery

Curtains and drapery can add an elegant touch to any room while also helping to regulate temperature and energy efficiency.

• Insulated Curtains. Insulated curtains are made with a thicker fabric that helps retain heat in the winter months and block sunlight in the summer months, promoting energy efficiency in your home.
• Blackout Curtains. Blackout curtains use special technology to block out any light from entering through the window, providing added insulation as well as added privacy for your home.

Vinyl Shutters

Vinyl shutters provide a more permanent solution for controlling light and temperature in your home. They offer added insulation during colder climates and can also be easily adjusted to control sunlight in warmer climates.

Texeuro Drapery Handles All Your Curtain & Drapery Needs

Which option is best for you? Talk to the design experts at Texeuro Drapery Ltd. for the best window coverings in Mississauga and the Greater Toronto Area. Take advantage of the largest home and décor centre in the GTA and get expert help with all things blinds, shutters, drapery, curtains, custom duvets, pillows, headboards, and more. Contact us at (905) 629-9575 to learn more!