Tired old curtains and blinds can do more harm than just to your decorating scheme. Your old window treatments may not be providing the energy efficiency you need to keep your home comfortable and your heating and cooling bills down. Learn how draperies and other coverings can make a difference in your energy savings. Reducing Heat Loss Covering windows can be an effective way to reduce heat loss in the winter. You have several options in window treatments that can boost the energy efficiency in your home. Draperies are one choice for sealing warm air into your house. As you select your draperies, choose a lined style with a closed-weave fabric for maximum insulation. For the most effectiveness, hang the draperies as close to the glass as possible. Ensure that the fabric reaches the windowsill or the floor. Installing a cornice over the top of the opening can also prevent more heat loss. Consider using magnetic tape along the edges of the draperies to secure them against the wall. Close draperies during the night and open them during the day to allow sunlight in. Following these tips can reduce heat loss in your home by up to 25 percent. Another option for preventing heat loss is to install insulated panels against the interior glass. These panels are typically made from rigid foam board, and they fit tightly into the opening for maximum efficiency. Blocking Summer Heat When heat and humidity outdoors want to find their way into your home, it's possible to use coverings to prevent sun and heat from infiltrating. Interior blinds are one option for blocking the summer sun with their adjustable slats. Some slats even have reflective coverings on the outside surfaces to reflect the sun away from your house. Keep blinds closed during the day to block the sun. Shades install easily into windows to block the sun effectively. For maximum effectiveness, install the shades as close to the glass as possible. Some shade styles also have reflective coloring on the outside surface to keep the sun out. Keep the shades pulled down during the day. Cellular shades are another option for helping control sun exposure into your home. Awnings mounted on the exterior of a home can also be helpful. Install awnings on the south side of your house to block the sun up to 65 percent and on the west side of your house to block the sun up to 77 percent. Retractable awnings can give you sun-blocking power during the summer, also allowing you to retract them during the winter to let more sun into your home. Be aware that awnings do require ventilation to prevent warm air from being trapped next to the window, which could lead to excessive heat entering your house. Although window treatments can serve a functional purpose by helping you save money on heating and cooling, this does not mean that they can't be a beautiful part of your room decor. Look for coverings that coordinate with your room colors and decorations to pull your home's decor together beautifully. When looking for effective and stylish window treatments Peoria, IL, residents visit Tazewell Floor Covering Inc.. Learn more about our selection at http://www.tazewellfloors.com.
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