Daylighting, Solar Heat Control and UV protection are concepts people outside of the window covering industry may not think about when choosing window coverings, yet they are very important. By choosing the right window coverings you can save on heating and cooling costs, save on usage of electrical lighting and protect your floors and furnishings from harsh sunlight helping them last longer.
Solar Heat Control
The warmth created by the sun may be sought-after during the cold winter months to help heat your home. However, it can make a room overly hot and unpleasant in the peak of summer. Vignette Architella Modern Roman Shades have a five star rating when it comes to solar heat control. Rear fabric air pockets trap air creating an extra layer of insulation, keeping you cooler in the summer and warmer in the winter, saving you money.
Daylighting
Daylighting is the practice of lighting rooms with natural light rather than generating light from electricity. Silhouette window shadings are top of the class when it comes to daylighting, diffusing light and drawing it deep into a room. By harnessing natural light, you can reduce energy costs by turning off electrical lights. As we head in to the winter months, we want to take advantage of every bit of natural light.
UV protection
Just as sunscreen protects our skin from the sun’s damaging UV rays, window coverings protect our interiors and add to the lifespan of furnishings. Virtually every Hunter Douglas product filters out at least 75% of the sun’s harmful UV rays when installed over double glazed windows. May products provide up to 99% when fully closed. Nantucket’s, featured below, receives high marks when it comes to UV protection.
If you are not sure which products will meet your needs, contact us! Our design professionals will come to your home, assess your situation and help you select the product that’s just right for you.
For more about energy loss in the home, check out our infographic.
