- DraperiesWhile most draperies are hung to add an aesthetic dressing or privacy to the window, they can also work wonders on reducing heat transmission. During the day, draperies should be closed, especially on windows receiving direct sunlight. The amount of heat transfer that is reduced varies, based on the type of fabric and color, but studies have shown that medium-colored draperies which have a white plastic backing can decrease heat gains by 33%. They stay cooler than other types of window coverings due to their folds and pleats lose heat through convection. Draperies also help in the winter by providing the reverse effect. They can be closed during the night to reduce interior heat loss through the glass.
- ShadesProperly installed, these devices can be the most economical way to save energy. Shades should be mounted as close to the window as possible and the sides should extend past the glass for appropriate coverage. Just as with draperies, shades should be lowered during peak hours of direct sunlight, especially on south and west facing windows. Dual shades, highly reflective on one side and heat absorbing on the other, are extremely efficient. They can also be reversed to be beneficial during the cold months as well. By using quilted roller shades and some types of roman shades, you receive the benefit of an insulator, air barrier and can control air infiltration.
- BlindsUnlike shades, blinds, both horizontal and vertical, offer the advantage of ventilation. By adjusting the slats, blinds can block and/or redirect sunlight to diffuse the light and cut back on both heat gain and glare. Highly reflective blinds, when completely closed and lowered, can reduce heat gains by around 45%. Here at JL Architects we use our slated blinds to help us out, by adjusting the slats to redirect light during the week and closing them on the weekend. This small gesture helps keep the heat outside where it belongs.
- AwningsThis apparatus is an external solution to an interior problem. For south facing windows, the addition of an awning can reduce heat gain by as much as 65%, while the number jumps to 77% for west facing glass. Awnings need to be ventilated in order to prevent heat from becoming trapped around the window. In the past, awnings were made of metal or canvas which needed to be replaced due to the elements. Today, most are made from more weather-friendly materials which hold up better and are treated to resist mold and fading. They're not only being used in residential applications, but have become a featured element in retail centers. It is also an attractive way to shade storefronts, as our client, Au Bon Pain has done in their store branding.
- Caulking and Weather strippingThis method will do wonders for your electric bill, not just during the hot summer months but during the cold and windy ones as well. While caulk, which is used to seal air leaks in gaps, joints or cracks for stationary building components and materials, like trim, weather stripping is used on the operable components, such as around the doors and windows themselves. Used alone or in conjunction, they can seal air infiltration around the openings of your home to keep you cozy all year round.
This is only a small sample of ways to help keep you feeling comfortable inside, without breaking the budget. If you'd like to find out more ways to reduce the heat by making simple changes or are looking into major renovations, the U.S. Department of Energy has some great articles and tips on their website. http://energy.gov/
Good luck staying cool and comfortable, especially this week!
-Melanie Hicks
Good luck staying cool and comfortable, especially this week!
-Melanie Hicks
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