When it comes to optimizing performance, be warned that not all types of interior shading devices will work well with the replacement windows Houston residents use.
These interior devices can indeed block light and reduce glare, but only specific designs are able to improve insulation or moderate solar heat gain.
Which types are best for your window?
- Vertical blinds such as the popular Venetian basically fight glare but do little to prevent heat from escaping your house during chilly days. Still, Venetian blinds are handy to have in Texasweather.They can reduce solar heat gain by 40 percent or better. For improved cooling effect, limit your choices to whites and pastels.
- Horizontal and floor-length Austrian blinds and Roman blinds help with both cooling and insulation. According to the Sustainable Energy Authority, these blinds can reduce heat by as much as 30 percent.In addition, they can effectively seal in an additional layer of air between themselves and your replacement windows in order to achieve a double glazing effect.
- Lace curtains are mostly just decorative elements, but drapes are another story. The latter can reduce solar heat gain by as much as 45 percent and prevent heat loss by as much as 40 to 60 percent when used together with dual panes.
Tip: Obviously, curtains, drapes, or blinds alone cannot regulate indoor temperature. Interior shading devices do not replace, but should effectively complement, energy-efficient replacement windows.
If you prefer an uncluttered look for your house without compromising the overall ability of your windows to moderate solar heat gain, we invite you to check out your other options in the post “Moderating Solar Heat Gain in Replacement Windows Houston.” You can also call (281) 358-2553 to request a free window estimate or consultation.
