The Best Window Treatments for Controlling Arizona Heat
And here we are again, like clockwork - summer with its months-long stretch of 100+ heat is here, making the outdoors quite inhospitable to living well. Too much sun can even damage your furniture, causing discoloration or even warping it after hours of direct sunlight. If your windows aren’t up to snuff, you may need to upgrade your window coverings to help you beat the heat!
The right window coverings are a huge way to beat the heat of summer. Here are the three best window covering options to control the temperature in your abode: cellular shades, Roman shades, and curtains and drapes.
Roman Shades
Roman shades are a good option for beating the heat in one key way: they can block out the sun entirely. While they may not have the power of insulation that some of the other options we talk about today do, they can be installed in such a way that they practically seal off the window from the room, keeping the sunlight from harshing your living room vibes, and the air that's warmed by the sun and window stuck there between the fabric of the shade and the window pane.
Roman shades also have a few looks you can go for, and if you want to make your home smarter at beating the heat, upgrade with automation or other motorization tech to keep them closing and opening as needed!
Cellular Shades
Cellular shades, also known as honeycomb shades, are the best, most energy-efficient window treatments, hands down! Their cell construction between the fabric allows for warmed air to be trapped within, creating pockets of insulation that slow heat from transferring through your windows and into your rooms. These coverings can reduce the transfer of heat by up to 80%, which is, of course, huge! With your home absorbing less warmth, it also means you won’t have to have your AC working nearly as hard to fight it. It’s a win/win for energy efficiency and comfort!
And here’s another added benefit! Cellular shades come in a wide range of options, from fabrics to colors, to opacity levels, and more – allowing you to beat the heat and look good doing it.
Drapes and Curtains
Drapes and curtains are classic window treatments that not only offer beauty and elegance but also can regulate heat. They are great for rooms that need darkening as well as heat control, as the drapes can cover the window completely.
Not all drapes are created equal in the fight against heat. The type of fabric they are made of will determine their ability to block out the excess warmth from the summer sun. Fabrics with a tight weave will work best at reducing heat gain, even more so if they are paired with a lining.
If you want to go the extra mile to ensure your drapes are doing the best job, they can look at using cornices or valances to block air at the top of the windows, further enhancing the insulation and heat control provided by the drapes.
Scottsdale and Fountain Hills are known for their sunny weather, and we love that! But if you aren’t careful, the sun can do a number on your belongings, furniture, and the comfort of your home. Get the proper window coverings installed today and enjoy Arizona living without all of that heat.