Ever feel like your home is auditioning for the role of a greenhouse during the summer? Or perhaps it’s more of an icebox in the winter? If your heating and cooling bills are giving you sticker shock, it might be time to consider an energy-efficient solution to your problems that’s as stylish as it is functional: solar shades. At Best Blinds & Awnings, we know the difference custom solar shades can make to your living space and your wallet!
The Science Behind Solar Shades
Solar shades are designed to solve several problems not addressed by more traditional shades. Crafted from specialized materials that diffuse light and block UV rays, they act as a barrier against the sun’s heat and glare while still allowing natural light to grace your interiors. By filtering sunlight, these shades help maintain a consistently comfortable indoor temperature, reducing the need for excessive air conditioning or heating.
Energy Efficiency: Saving the Earth and Your Wallet
According to the U.S. Department of Energy, a typical home loses about 30% of its heating energy through windows in the winter. In warmer seasons, approximately 76% of the sunlight that falls on standard double-pane windows infiltrates the house as heat. By installing solar shades, you can significantly reduce this energy transfer and stay comfortable in every season while still being able to enjoy the view. These shades minimize solar heat gain in the summer months and aid in the capture of warmth during the winter, leading to measurable savings on your energy bills.
Protection for Your Cool Stuff
Beyond temperature regulation, solar shades offer the added benefit of protecting your home’s interior. Prolonged exposure to ultraviolet (UV) rays can cause furniture, flooring, and artwork to fade over time. Solar shades can block a significant portion of these harmful rays, preserving the vibrant colors and longevity of your cherished possessions.
Glare Reduction Without Sacrificing View
We all love a room bathed in natural light, but not when it comes with blinding glare, especially on screens. Solar shades reduce glare, making it more comfortable to work on your computer, watch TV, or simply relax without squinting. The best part? They do this while maintaining your view of the outdoors, so you won’t feel as if you’re living in a cave. Enjoy that open, airy feeling without the burning intensity of unfiltered sun rays.
Customization to Match Your Style
At Best Blinds & Awnings, we understand that every home is unique. That’s why our solar shades come in a wide variety of colors, fabrics, and openness levels. Whether you prefer a sleek, modern look or a more traditional aesthetic, our team can help you find the perfect match to complement your décor. You can even layer solar shades with blackout shades to precisely control the light in your home at any time of the day or night.
Year-Round Comfort
Solar shades aren’t just a summer fling; they’re a year-round commitment to comfort. In the warmer months, they prevent excess heat from entering your home, keeping indoor temperatures pleasant. During the colder seasons, they add an extra layer of insulation, helping to retain heat. This double functionality makes them a smart buy for any homeowner searching for ways to enhance energy efficiency throughout the year.
Ready to Transform Your Home?
Think of solar shades as sunglasses for your windows — cool, protective, and undeniably stylish. By investing in them, you’re not only making your home more restful and beautiful but also making a positive impact on the environment by reducing energy consumption.
If you’re in Coeur d’Alene, Spokane, or the Lewis Clark Valley areas, the team at Best Blinds & Awnings is here to help you make your home more energy-efficient and stylish with our range of custom solar shades. Visit our website, give us a call, or schedule an appointment for a consultation with our professional designers and installers. Let’s work together to create a living space you’ll love.