Warmth, light and safety…that’s what windows provide. Windows are the only source of natural light in many homes which creates a cozy, comfy living space for family and friends. In some cases, however, incoming sunlight may not be something you can welcome with open arms. If your windows tend to attract so much sun heat that it makes your home uncomfortable during certain times of the year.
Let’s face it; all the money you spend on air conditioning could go out the window if you don’t block that sun heat from entering your home.
There are many ways to cool down your house and block the sun’s heat from windows. Some methods work better than others, but through comparison, you can decide which is right for you.
1. Heat Reflective Window Blinds
The sun gives off rays of energy, some of which we see as light or feel as warmth. But normal window glass is 90% transparent to these rays. If you place a reflective surface in the path of these rays, you can change their direction by reflection.
Compared with a conventional blinds or curtains, heat reflective Solar Blinds outperforms due to their highly reflective properties and distinctively one-of-a-kind angular perforation. The majority of the sun’s rays and heat are reflected back out of the window before they are converted into sun heat energy.
The benefit of this option is that natural daylight comes in, and the temperature of your home remains comfortable.
And that helps keep your energy bill down!
Heat reflective Krumpers solar blinds
2. Blackout Window Blinds
Installing blackout blinds over your windows is a good way to prevent sun heat from getting in. Blackout blinds are opaque, so they don’t let any light pass through. They are also available in a wide variety of colors and designs, so you can choose the right ones for your home.
A disadvantage of blackout blinds is that they are designed to block natural daylight, not sun heat. This means that if you want to use them to reduce heat, you won’t get any natural light into the house.
3. External Window Shades
If you choose to make your own shade, you can create it from a variety of materials, including fabric, cardboard, and wood. If you’re not familiar with building projects, consider enlisting the help of a professional.
Plants and trees outside the window will help to shade some sunlight, keeping your home cooler. When plants lose water vapour, they cool the air around them.
If you install awnings over the window, they’ll reduce the amount of sun hitting the window. A professional may be able to help you get them at the perfect angle for the best results.
4. Bubble Wrap Insulation
If you want to temporarily block out the summer sunlight and aren’t concerned about how your window will look, you can opt for bubble wrap window insulation. Before you use bubble wrap, make sure to seal the bubbles tightly against the glass.
5. Heat Reducing Window Films
You can buy insulating plastic film and attach it to the inside of your windows. The film creates a pocket of air similar to the plastic bubble wrap. Be sure to get enough film to cover all your windows. Otherwise , the insulation value will be reduced.
Our Recommendations
Ultimately, if you want great control over how much privacy and/or light you let in but don’t want to worry about the cost of air conditioning, heat reflective solar blinds can be a fantastic option for any home. You’ll save money on your energy costs and enjoy a cooler home all summer. And that’s pretty hard to beat!
Still have questions about how to keep your home cool during the hot months?
