As temperatures drop across North Idaho, homeowners start to notice the telltale signs of poor insulation: chilly air near windows, mysterious drafts in spots throughout the house, higher heating bills, and uneven room temperatures. No matter how well your house has been built, there are vulnerabilities in every home, particularly near windows and doors, where it’s easier for cold air to seep in. Even well-built homes in Coeur d’Alene, Post Falls, and Hayden can lose a surprising amount of heat through their windows in the fall and winter months.
One of the most effective (and thankfully stylish) ways to reduce these drafts is with the right window coverings. At Best Blinds & Awnings, we help families across North Idaho find solutions that not only enhance interior design but also improve their home’s energy efficiency. Here’s how the right coverings can make a big difference.
How Cold Air Drafts Affect Your Home
Windows are among the most common sources of heat loss, even when they’re newer. Cold air can sneak in through tiny gaps or poorly insulated glass, making it harder for your heating system to keep up. The result is:
- Cold spots near windows and doors
- Higher utility bills
- A less comfortable home environment
It doesn’t necessarily mean your windows are poorly made. Casement and sliding windows can develop very small gaps from the settling of your foundation, or from wear and tear over years of opening and closing or occasional impacts. Thankfully, there’s no need to spend thousands on new window installation. Instead of replacing your windows, you can resolve the issue with the right window coverings. They can provide an additional layer of insulation that helps seal out any drafts.
Top Window Coverings for Blocking Drafts
You may not realize it, but space is a very effective insulator. When you seal off a wall of air between your drafty window and your interior, that space gap creates an insulation barrier that prevents cold air from reaching into your room. Your window covering can create that wall of air. Some effective insulating window covering choices include:
1. Cellular (Honeycomb) Shades
These are one of the best options for insulation. In addition to good coverage, their honeycomb-shaped cells trap air, creating a buffer that reduces heat transfer and blocks drafts. Perfect for bedrooms, living rooms, and anywhere you want warmth without sacrificing style.
2. Roman Shades
Roman shades made with thick fabrics add both visual softness and insulation value. With different lining options, they can provide even better protection against drafts while elevating a room’s design aesthetic.
3. Drapery
Lined drapes in rich fabrics not only block drafts but also add a cozy, seasonal feel that is ideal for giving your rooms a warm vibe during North Idaho’s long winters.
4. Shutters
Interior shutters, particularly solid wood or composite versions, excel at sealing windows when closed. They provide both insulation and a timeless design that works well in many home styles.
Style That Works with the Season
Draft-blocking window coverings don’t have to look bulky or boringly functional. Modern options come in a range of colors, textures, and finishes, making it easy to find something that complements your interior. From rustic cabins in Spirit Lake to new builds in Rathdrum, there are energy-efficient window coverings that suit every style.
Maximize Efficiency with Layering
For optimal and increased protection against drafts, consider layering window treatments. For example, you can install a cellular shade for insulation, then add decorative drapery panels to frame the window and add another line of defense. The layering approach not only seals out cold air effectively but also gives your windows a finished, designer look.
Local Expertise for Cold Weather Comfort
Best Blinds & Awnings, with locations in LC Valley, Spokane, and Coeur d’Alene, understands the unique climate challenges presented by North Idaho and Eastern Washington. Our team can assist homeowners in choosing coverings that are practical and attractive and that work well with all interior styles and color schemes. The right coverings will keep your home warm, comfortable, and energy-efficient all season long.
Ready to make your home more cozy this winter? Wherever you are in North Idaho or Eastern Washington, we can bring the showroom to you, measure your windows precisely, and recommend the best options for sealing out drafts. Contact Best Blinds & Awnings today for a consultation.