Insulating Properties of Window Shades

Insulating window shades have several properties that help them insulate windows, maintaining room temperature and preventing heat loss. This saves money on heating bills and increases comfort in your home.

Fabric or Cloth Covering

The fabric or cloth on the window shades helps insulate the glass, keeping warm air from seeping out of the house. This physical barrier is the first line of defense in keeping the home insulated and is normally a heavy cloth.

Full Length

Window shades that are properly fit to the window cover the entire window, preventing warm air from flowing out in open spaces that the shades don't cover. The best insulating shades actually fit inside the window frame perfectly, so that warm air flows over the window frame, but not behind the shades or out the window.

Lined Edges

Many windows achieve a secure edge by lining window shades with plastic strips so that the weight of the strips keeps shades pressed against the wall.

Secure Top with No Gaps

Pull shades often use two rollers at the top to completely seal the window. Shades that are always down are usually firmly affixed to the wall at the top and pulled back with cords when the window needs to be opened.

Vapor Barrier

Well-insulating shades have a vapor barrier sewn into them, such as a heavy plastic or nylon sheet, to keep humidity inside the home. Moisture in the air helps maintain heat, as air with high levels of water vapor hold heat longer than dry air.