The colder weather is quickly approaching, and so are higher energy bills. In the winter months, on average, people spend 59% more on their energy bills (source). For people who enjoy a nice cozy home, it can be important to capitalize on any techniques that can keep heat in and reduce the need to utilize excess energy. As we all know, wasted energy in the winter means wasted money.
Did you know that the window treatments you use can help? Certain window treatments can help save money in the winter while still providing a stylish look to your home. Check out these “warm” and inviting window treatment options:
Cellular and Roman Shades
Cellular shades, also known as honeycomb shades, are the most commonly used window treatments inside houses. These shades are versatile because they can open a variety of different ways and can be custom fitted to your home and lifestyle. Along with twisted opening, they can be lifted and lowered to let light in or keep a room private. They can be designed for a variety of window sizes and shapes and motorized with remote controls or offered with cordless lift. Regardless of their style, when closed, they not only provide privacy but insulation in the winter months.
Roman shades can be raised and lowered in a similar fashion to cellular shades but cannot be twisted open. Instead, they are constructed with horizontal bars to create stylish pleats and gentle folds when raised. The best thing about roman shades is how versatile they can be. Because they are constructed of fabric, they can be as sheer or as dense as you want them to be. The materials used to construct the shades dictates their ability to reduce heat loss and save energy, with thicker fabrics providing more insulation than sheer options.
Drapery Options
In the winter, drapery can function as a blanket for your windows. These fabric panels come in a wide range of widths, lengths, fabrics, colors, and patterns – making them an extremely popular window treatment choice. Plus, they are easy to change with the weather, making them stylish and seasonal. In the winter, long, thick shades can provide insulation and keep valuable heat in, while sheer and short shades can be great for the summertime.
During the winter, drapery can reduce heat loss from a warm room up to 10% (source). Plus, layering multiple fabrics can create both a fashion statement and added protection from heat loss. For even more energy-savings, it can be important to fully close the drapes at night. While sunlight during the day coming through will help create heat, the lack of light at night needs to be fully shut out to get fully effective energy savings.
Treat your Windows Right with Andriots
At Andriots, our design center sells window treatments from Graber and Lafayette Window Fashions to ensure that your home isn’t just well insulated for the coming winter, but that it is stylish as well. We offer shades, blinds, shutters, and drapery – all the treatments necessary to provide you with a solution you will love. Contact us today to learn more about what we can offer you or stop in today!