Summers in Spokane, Coeur d’Alene, Post Falls, Lewiston, and Clarkston bring long days and plenty of sunshine. While natural light is a great feature in any home, too much of it — especially through large or south- and west-facing windows — can quickly lead to heat buildup, glare, and fading interiors. The right window coverings help you manage that sunlight without sacrificing comfort or style.
At Best Blinds & Awnings, we know that window treatments don’t just serve the basic purposes of privacy and shade. The right window coverings can enhance your living spaces, bringing style, comfort, and ambiance to a space, as well as giving you complete light control.
In North Idaho and Western Washington, where homes with large picture windows welcome expansive lake, river, and mountain vistas, window coverings are more than just coverings. For rooms that get intense summer sun, here are the best blind and shade options to consider.
Solar Shades: Reduce Heat Without Losing the View
Solar shades are designed specifically to handle strong sunlight. They filter light and block UV rays while still allowing you to see outside. Why solar shades work well for summer sun:
- Reduce glare on TVs and other screens
- Block harmful UV rays that cause fading
- Maintain access to outdoor views
- Help keep rooms cooler
Solar shades are ideal for living rooms, offices, or any space where you want natural light without the harsh effects.
Cellular Shades: Insulation for Hot Days
Also known as honeycomb shades, cellular shades are one of the most energy-efficient options available. Their unique design traps air, creating a thermal barrier between your window and your interior space. Benefits that cellular shades provide:
- Improve insulation against heat
- Provide more consistent indoor temperatures
- Reduce strain on cooling systems
For homes in the Inland Northwest, where temperatures can climb during summer afternoons, cellular shades are a practical and effective solution.
Faux Wood Blinds: Durable and Adjustable
Faux wood blinds offer a classic look with strong performance in sunny conditions. Their adjustable slats give you precise control over how much light enters the room. Their best features:
- Tilt control for managing direct sunlight
- Resistance to heat and warping
- Easy maintenance
- Hold up well under sunlight and heat
They’re a great option for kitchens, living areas, and any room where durability matters.
Roller Shades: Clean and Modern Light Control
Roller shades provide a sleek, minimal look while still offering strong sun protection. Available in a range of opacities from light-filtering to room-darkening, they come in a variety of styles and colors that can be tailored to your needs. Why homeowners often choose them:
- Simple, modern design
- Customizable light control
- Easy operation, including motorized options that are particularly useful for high windows
Roller shades are especially popular in contemporary homes throughout North Idaho and Eastern Washington.
Vertical Blinds: Ideal for Large Windows and Sliding Doors
For oversized windows or sliding glass doors, vertical blinds are a practical solution. They allow you to adjust light direction while covering wide spaces efficiently. Advantages include:
- Smooth operation across large openings
- Effective light control
- Durability for high-use areas
They’re a strong choice for rooms that open onto patios or decks.
Motorized Window Coverings: Smart Sun Management
Many of today’s shade and blind options come in motorized versions. Motorized blinds and shades make it easy to manage sunlight throughout the day, especially in rooms with heavy exposure. With automation, you can:
- Schedule shades to close during peak heat and light
- Reduce glare without manual adjustments
- Improve energy efficiency effortlessly
This is a great option for large homes or rooms with multiple windows, saving you from going around the house to adjust the shades or blinds throughout the day.
Protect Your Home from Summer Sun with Best Blinds
Too much sun can lead to uncomfortable rooms, higher energy bills, and long-term UV damage to flooring and furniture. The right window coverings help prevent these issues while keeping your home bright, beautiful, and inviting.
Choosing the right solution depends on your space, window size, window orientation, and how you use each room. That’s where expert guidance makes a big difference. At Best Blinds & Awnings, we help homeowners across Spokane, Coeur d’Alene, Post Falls, Lewiston, Clarkston, and surrounding areas find window coverings that handle summer sun while matching their style.
From solar shades to custom blinds, every product is measured and installed for a precise fit and long-term performance. If you’re ready to take control of summer sunlight in your home. contact Best Blinds & Awnings today for a free consultation and find the perfect window coverings for your sunny space.