Courtesy of cellularwindowshades.com
Q: When it’s cold out, my home feels chilly, especially near windows. Without installing expensive replacement windows, how can I boost my home’s comfort and energy efficiency?
A: If you feel chilly sitting near a window, you’re likely losing energy, which drives up your utility bills. This is also true during summer, when heat transfers in and forces your air conditioner to run longer. If replacement windows exceed your budget, window shades are a reasonably priced option that will help.
Before making any other window-efficiency improvements, remember to caulk and weather strip your windows. Move a stick of lighted incense near all gaps, and watch the trail of the smoke to find air leaks. Do this during windy weather, or briefly switch on an exhaust fan to draw outdoor air in through the gaps.
Installing insulated window shades will provide the most improved comfort and energy savings year-round. While shopping for shades, you’ll want to consider several factors, such as the R-value, how well they seal when closed, ease of operation and appearance. Before you buy, try to operate a sample insulated shade that’s similar in size to your needs. If the shade is difficult to open and close, you’ll be less likely to use it at home.
Almost all commercially available window shades list the R-value on the packaging. They typically include some type of air-barrier film sewn inside the shade to block airflow through it. An aluminized or other type of low-emissive film is best to help block the radiant heat transfer through the shade material.
Look for shades that include deep vertical tracks, which mount on the sides of the window opening, for the edges of the shade material. Deeper tracks create a longer path for air leakage to travel, so they provide a better seal. Adhesive-backed vinyl tracks are often included with the shades. Also, look for brush or foam weather stripping on the bottom edge, where the shade rests on the windowsill when closed, for a tighter seal.
If you buy insulated shades that don’t come with vertical tracks, you can make your own tracks. Buy long pieces of aluminum U-channel. Most home-improvement stores carry them in the hardware aisle. Stick them to the wall with a strong double-sided tape, or drill small holes and mount them with screws. Aluminum is easy to saw to length and easy to drill.
Cellular shades are a less expensive option and are best to use where you want some natural light to get through. The double-cell shades create an additional air gap for better insulation. When these shades are pulled up, the cells collapse on one another, making the shade thicker, so side channels are not very effective with this option.
If you do not want to install insulated shades, try closing the drapes at night. Drapes that are opaque and have a silvery backing improve efficiency more than plain fabric drapes.
Companies that offer insulating shades include: Country Curtains, (800) 937-1237; Cozy Curtains, (800) 342-9955; Smith and Noble, (888) 214-2134; Symphony Shades, (877) 966-3678; and Warm Company, (800) 234-9276.
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