Central Texas winters can be unpredictable but sometimes bring snow and low temperatures. In 2021, Winter Storm Uri brought six inches of snow and ice to Austin. As winter quickly approaches this year, maintaining a warm and cozy home becomes a high priority. Your thermostat might be working overtime to keep your home at a consistent and comfortable temperature, and you might even notice a higher energy bill. Did you know that windows are responsible for up to half of the heat lost in your home? Your shades are vital in keeping your home comfortably heated and your bills low. Our team at Origin HiFi is proud to offer several shade control options that will keep your home warm this winter.
How Does Shade Control Work in the Winter?
Window treatments are one of the most effective methods of heating and cooling your home. If insulating is your goal, motorized blinds are the best option. As the sunlight streams inside, the gap between the window and blinds will capture the heat. The absorption of the sunlight by the blinds creates the greenhouse effect. Typically, white blinds work best for reflecting the sunlight and insulating the home, but there are specially treated blinds for different scenarios.
Shade Control Options
Automated window shades are a convenient and energy-efficient way to control the light and privacy in your home. With motorized shades, you can raise or lower them with a push of a button or set them to open and close automatically at specific times of the day. This feature can help you save energy by preventing unwanted heat loss during the winter. In addition, automated shades can also add to the beauty of your home. With so many options, there is a style that will perfectly complement your decor.
Insulating Honeycomb Shades
Honeycomb shades provide sun protection while trapping air at the window, serving as insulation between the window and your home. They are available in light filtering, room darkening, or a combination. Honeycomb shades are cost-effective for controlling sun, light, and temperature.
When unfurled, these shades can trap the heat in their honeycomb design, and when stowed, they fold up like an accordion, allowing you to take in the light of sunny days. You can control these shades from a wall panel or mobile app. With timed schedules, you can set your system to retract the shades a few minutes before your usual arrival home from work, allowing you to enjoy the last bit of daylight without losing all your heat.
Roman Shades
Roman shades are a classic look that can add dimension and elegance to any window. Roman shades come in a stacking or rolling style, in various colors, folds, and opacities. Each full or flat fold in the fabric creates a uniform aesthetic that operates seamlessly.
Roman shades are the best option for homeowners ready to see significant drops in energy bills. Due to their modern, user-friendly design and detailed temperature control, they’re quickly becoming popular. A thermal acrylic foam inside the shades effectively maintains your home interior temperature. To further customize your shades, you can opt for recessed, pocket, or fascia mount options with coupled or dual shade solutions.
Roller Shades
Roller shades are a sleek and modern option suitable for windows of all sizes. They are available in various patterns, textures, and opacity options, so you can find the perfect shade to match your decor and needs. Roller shades are known for their wide range of affordable options for homeowners who want to monitor the heat and light entering and exiting the home, whether for your kitchen, bedroom, or living room.
These shades are available in more cost-effective options, perfect for homeowners who want to spend less without sacrificing their ability to block heat and light. On days you are home, you can set a schedule that aligns your shades with the sun's movement. When the sun rises in the east, your west-facing windows can have fully open blinds, and as the sun begins setting, your system can fully draw the blinds to prevent an excess of light and heat.
Skyline Panels
It’s common for homeowners to have large windows in their homes for the natural sunlight aesthetic. However, these windows typically bring increased energy bills with them. Standard windows leak heat in the winter, so think about how much picture windows let out. Skyline panels are designed for larger windows. When skyline panels are open, the panels stack tightly, providing unobstructed views and copious amounts of natural sunlight. When closed, these panels can make a statement on their own.
As unpredictable as Texas winters might be, it’s crucial to be ready in case of freezing temperatures. Integrate your automated shades with the heating system in your home. If you’re looking for more convenience or decreased energy usage, we are ready to help. Contact our team at Origin HiFi today for a free consultation!