Window Covering Alternatives
In addition to complementing the decor of a room, the window treatments you choose can help you save energy, control the amount of sunlight in the room and provide privacy. By thinking beyond curtains and drapes, you can discover window covering alternatives that suit the challenges you need to solve. Does this Spark an idea?
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Window Quilts
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Window quilts control air infiltration and reduce energy loss. Window quilts provide insulation against cold and heat. According to the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE), quilted window coverings provide one of the more effective barriers to control the flow of cold air into the home. In terms of R-values, a window quilt on tracks has an R value as high as 5.8, while cellular shades have R-values as high as 4.6. Vertical or horizontal blinds have R-values up to 2.5.
Low-E Window Film
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In sunny climates, Low-E window film improves energy efficiency. Low-E window film can improve energy efficiency by reducing solar gain by as much as 72 percent on hot sunny days, while providing up to 55 percent insulation during the winter. If you have an older home with metal window sashes that conduct heat and cold, you should use low-E film to augment another insulating window treatment that creates an air space between the windows and the room.
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Light Blocking Fabric
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A room used as a home theater may need light blocking window coverings. If someone in your household works the night shift or if you have a home theater, then light blocking plays an important role in your choice of window coverings. Blinds and shades with blackout linings can block up to 99 percent of incoming light. Other blackout options include a fabric that attaches to the window frame with hook and loop tape to block light while allowing your decorative window treatments to remain in place.
Skylight Shades
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Skylight shades can admit light while blocking UV rays. Skylights pose unusual challenges because of their height. Some specially-designed shades can remain in place to filter sunlight while maintaining visibility through the glass. Other skylight shades have a microscopic layer of aluminum on one side for energy efficiency, while the insides have the appearance of traditional pleated shades with options for fabric, color, opacity and the ability to have them open and close.
Exterior UV-Blocking Shades
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Exterior window coverings can block UV rays while preserving visibility. In climates with a lot of exposure to the sun, exterior window shades can block UV rays while preserving visibility. The fabric technology used for these shades deflects UV rays from a mesh surface to reduce the heat of the sun while ratcheting down on air conditioning costs.
Decorative Window Clings
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Window clings create the illusion of stained glass. If you'd like to create the effect of stained glass or etched window panes, vinyl window clings can cover entire door-wall panes or window panes of any size. If you live in an apartment with nearby neighbors, vinyl clings can give you decorative choices that also provide privacy.
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References
- SymphonyShades.com: Window Quilts . . . When to Use versus Symphony Shades
- SymphonyShades.com: Compare Our Energy Efficiency Against Other Window Treatments . . .
- U.S. Department of Energy: Energy Savers, Window Shades
- Lower My Energy Bill: Year Round Insulating Film
- Blindsgalore: Blackout Blinds and Shades
- Blackout EZ Window Cover: Blackout EZ Window Covers
Resources
- Photo Credit Jupiterimages/Comstock/Getty Images Brand X Pictures/Brand X Pictures/Getty Images Thinkstock Images/Comstock/Getty Images Jupiterimages/Photos.com/Getty Images
