Window Coverings for Energy Efficiency

     Window coverings are the signature of a room’s character. They set the tone of style and décor for the entire home. But making the decision on which window coverings to choose can be very overwhelming. The best place to begin is with one’s intention – one’s main criteria. Is it luxury? Is it practicality? Or is it a little bit of each. In the age of “going green” one’s main criteria may be energy conservation. When considering window coverings for energy efficiency, the question of horizontal versus vertical window blinds is inevitably raised. Which is more energy efficient? Most experts agree that vertical window blinds are more energy efficient for several reasons:

     For those who live in warmer climates, vertical window blinds are superior to horizontal shades when choosing window coverings for energy efficiency. They block the sunlight from seeping unbearable heat into the house. This ability to keep the sun away is a big reason that many people choose vertical blinds over horizontal blinds. Because of their basic construction, horizontal blinds let the sun to shine downward right through the panes - allowing the light to easily enter the room.

     In cooler climates, vertical window blinds are more energy efficient than horizontal blinds because of their overlapped panes – which creates a pocket between the blinds and the outdoor weather. The overlapped panes keep the heat inside the house and the cold outside of the house in the winter months and in the summer, it works similarly to keep the cool air inside of the house and the heat outside.

     Again, it’s good to examine the intention for new window coverings. If one’s goal is beauty and style, then vertical blinds may not be of interest. However, if window coverings for energy efficiency is the goal, then vertical window blinds are a great choice.

Window Coverings for Energy Efficiency