As the temperatures continue to rise this summer, you’ll be glad to have a cool, air-conditioned home where you can relax. However, at such a contrast to the outdoor temperature, your HVAC system could be under a significant amount of stress. Luckily, you can ease the strain by using window treatments to cool down your living space. Here are just a few ways to use blinds, curtains, and shades to your advantage.

3 Ways to Use Window Treatments to Cool Your Home

1. Add Blackout Fabric to Existing Window Treatments

If you’ve already found the perfect fabric for drapes in your living room or bedroom, you’ll be hesitant to switch them out for more functional window treatments. Luckily, you can modify your existing window treatments to lower cooling costs during the summer. Simply remove your curtains and line the back (the side facing the window) with a blackout fabric. Alternatively, you could install a second curtain rod behind the existing one and hang blackout curtains there. These dense, dark fabrics will prevent infrared heat from making it into your living space, absorbing the light right after it passes through the window. 

2. Install Custom Solar Shades

Solar shades can be custom-made to fit your specific window shapes. These roll-down treatments consist of a mesh-like fabric and come in a variety of opacities, so you can determine just how much light you want to block out. They can also be ordered in a variety of colors, or you can create a custom design to match your other decor. Custom solar shades can also be motorized, lifting up and down in unison with the touch of a button.

3. Close Shutters During the Day

Whether you have plantation shutters, blinds, solar shades, or curtains, you can use any window treatments to make your house cooler with one simple step. When the sun is shining, close them all—that way, infrared heat never has the chance to stream in through your windows. At twilight, you can open your window treatments to enjoy the view.

If you’re interested in upgrading your window treatments for energy efficiency, get in touch with Michael Herr & Company. This business is proud to cater to properties in the Greater Cincinnati, OH, and surrounding area. Whether you envision faux wood blinds or motorized solar shades, you can count on their team to design the perfect window treatments for your home. To learn more about their services, visit the website, or like them on Facebook. You can also call (513) 260-3217 if you have any questions.