There’s a weak link in your home that’s making you feel hotter in summer and colder in winter than need be, and no, it’s not your overworked air conditioner. It’s your windows.
Yes, these glass portals into the outside world can make all the difference to your household’s year-round climate; they’re estimated to be responsible for up to 30% of heat loss in winter and 40% of heat retention in summer. In other words, give your windows a little bit of attention and you could be saving yourself both the hassle of continually needing to crank the heating or air-conditioning, and a significant amount of money.
Dress (Your Windows) To Impress - Why Choose Shutters or Blinds?
Shutters and blinds are by far the most superior choice for helping you save money through less energy expenditure. In the heat of summer, when the Queensland sun is unbearable, shutters and blinds can be adjusted to lessen the amount of solar radiation pouring in through your windows, making a significant impact on cooling down your house. During the colder months, they can act as insulation that stops warm air from escaping. It’s a win/win for your household budgets as well as a stylish addition to your living spaces.
Getting The Most Energy-Saving Benefits From Your Shutters or Blinds
Simply choosing this method of window dressing is already a great start, but there are a few additional ways in which you can maximize the overall benefits of your new shutters and blinds.
Think about the colour of your shutters or blinds...
And not just because of the aesthetic importance. Dark colours attract the sun, while light colours reflect those solar rays, so if keeping the heat out is the main purpose of your shutters or blinds (and in Queensland, it should be), opt for the latter.
You don’t have to keep your windows blacked out all summer long...
The great thing about blinds and shutters is that you can make adjustments to let your desired amount of light in, so it doesn’t have to feel like your home is in a permanent nocturnal state (unless that’s what you want).
That being said, to fully optimize heat-reflection, its recommended to keep your windows guarded the most during the late morning and early evening. You can also tackle the sun at it’s peak problem points by closing shutters and blinds on east-facing windows in the morning, and west-facing windows in the evening.
Additionally, the density of your soft fabric blinds (roller blinds, panel glide blinds, roman blinds) can also increase your cost savings. Ranging from translucent through to three pass and full block out, the denser your fabric weave, the more insulation you'll achieve from heat and cold.
Double layer blinds (one layer of blockout for night time use), one of translucent for day time use) also provide a clever and versatile option for giving you the ultimate sun and heat control.
Correct measurement is paramount...
As is the tightness between the covering and window can make or break how efficient your blinds or shutters are in saving energy. For this reason, having a professional handle installation is highly recommended, as they can make sure it’s tightly fitted and thus able to provide the best insulation possible.
Read our Essential Guide to Buying Shutters
Your bank account doesn’t have to be a victim of the harsh Queensland sun; install quality blinds and/or shutters in your home and discover the incredible difference they can make.
