How to Choose Energy Saving Window Treatments

Guest Blogger #541, Entry #1220, May 25, 2012

There are some things that we don’t think about updating or replacing nearly as much as we should. Take our windows, for example. Unless we want to renovate a room in our home, most of us don’t even give it a second thought. Maybe we would if we knew how much money we could save by opting for energy saving window treatments.

For instance, did you know that by simply replacing one single-pane window with an energy-efficient one, you can save as much as $150 per year? Plus, by installing energy-efficient windows, doors or skylights, you can also earn a tax deduction (within the same year of the installment) of up to 10% of the total cost of any particular product.

Tips for window treatments for your home

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These two reasons alone should serve as enough motivation to do a bit of quick research on the variety of energy-saving window treatments that are available.

Here are five of them.

Awnings.

Did you know that window awnings can reduce solar heat (depending upon where you live) by as much as 65-77%? Plus, they come in a lot more variety to shade your windows than they once did. (Almost) gone are the days of the metal and canvas kinds that need to be replaced every 5-7 years. Now you can get ones made from synthetic fibers that are both water-repellent and resistant to mold and fading. Awnings-USA.com and SunSetterAwnings.com are two websites that can provide you with some good estimates.

Storm panels.

One of the best things that you can do for both you and your windows during the winter months is to install some storm panels. Matter of fact, by adding one to a single-pane window, you can the loss of winter heat by as much as 50%. For exterior panels, you can either purchase the single or combination kind. For interiors, you can choose from flexible or rigid plastic. Do keep in mind that exterior panels need a custom fit, while interior ones do not. For more info on these, go to your local hardware store.

Awnings are decorative and can deflect the sun

Image via: Houzz

Drapes.

Drapes are the “oldie but goodie” window treatment solution. Based on the kind of fabric and color, when closed, drapes can save as much as 10-30% on energy costs. To get the maximum results, hang them close to the windows, allow them to fall on the windowsill or door, and use magnetic tape to attach the sides to the walls. By following these three tips, you can reduce heat loss by up to an amazing 25%.

Blinds.

If you’re someone who wants to cool your home down, blinds (whether interior or exterior) are a great way to go. Although they aren’t the best solution when it comes to trapping in winter heat, they are pretty effective at keeping your home at a comfortable temperature during the summer months. So much in fact that there are reports that indicate that reflective blinds can reduce summer heat gain within the home by as much as 45%. Roller window blinds are also a wise choice for the same reason. SelectBlinds.com, HunterDouglas.com and even Wal-Mart and JC Penny have a wide selection of blinds that are both cost-effective and energy-efficient.

Choose window treatments that will help save your energy bill

Image via: Apartment Therapy

Mesh window screens.

Something that is catching more and more people’s attention are window mesh screens. If you’re not familiar with them, they are basically screens that are placed on the exterior part of a frame while covering the entire window for the purpose of reducing heat gain in the summer months. They’re relatively inexpensive on Amazon.com or the Home Depot. DIY.com even has a feature that shows you how to make them by hand. They’re a favorite, especially, in baby rooms because they can be easily mounted and removed, which is far less taxing than any of the other window treatments mentioned. So, if you’re short on cash, this is one that you definitely have no excuse for not using. Test them out. Your electricity bill will show just how much this little change made.

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