As the seasons change, so do our comfort needs within our homes. With the arrival of autumn and winter, the quest to keep our living spaces warm and cosy begins anew. One area that often gets overlooked is our windows, a major source of heat loss in homes, leading to higher energy bills and a larger carbon footprint. In this guide, we'll explore thermal blinds and shutters to help you transform your home into an energy-efficient haven.
Studies have shown that windows are a significant contributor to heat loss in residential buildings. Inefficient windows can be responsible for up to 18% of a home's heat loss.
A major contributor to heat loss, conduction happens when the outside air is colder than the inside air, and the warm air inside moves to the colder air outside. Single-glazed windows, faulty glazing to windows or poorly fitted or insulated frames all act as conductors, letting the warm air escape.
Radiators, heaters and fires warm surfaces in a room, and once warm, they emit heat in the form of infrared radiation. Most glass in windows lets infrared heat pass through, so the warmth escapes.
Air leakage around window frames and doors can account for a considerable percentage of everyday heat loss. Drafts occur when outdoor air comes in through gaps, cracks, or poorly sealed windows, introducing cold air into the room and forcing your heating system to work harder to maintain the desired temperature.
The type of glass in your window frames plays a significant role in heat loss. Single-pane windows offer minimal insulation and are more susceptible to conduction and radiant heat loss. In contrast, double-glazed windows consist of two panes separated by an insulating layer of air or gas. This design reduces heat transfer, making them more energy-efficient and effective at retaining indoor heat.
To combat heat loss at windows effectively, you can invest in energy-efficient windows and improve insulation around window frames. By minimising heat loss at windows, you can create a cosier, more energy-efficient home. But what window dressings can you use to help?
Thermal fabrics are a fantastic addition to any room and are available as curtains or Roman blinds. Designed with a special lining that helps to block heat from escaping during the winter, they also prevent heat from entering during the summer. By simply closing your thermal curtains or blinds in the evening or during the hottest part of the day, you can significantly reduce your reliance on heating and cooling systems.
Insulating blinds, such as Duette® blinds with their honeycomb or cellular structure, are known for their ability to trap air within their cells, creating an extra layer of insulation at your windows. This not only keeps your home warmer in the winter and cooler in the summer but can also help to reduce energy bills.
Whether you opt for wood or vinyl shutters, they are not just a timeless choice; they are also excellent for energy conservation. Shutters made from wood or vinyl can be tightly closed to create a barrier against heat loss and gain, and bespoke crafted shutters with their precision fitting will be most effective. They also allow you to control natural light more efficiently, reducing the need for artificial lighting.
Embrace technology with smart blinds that can be programmed to open and close at specific times of the day. This ensures your home takes full advantage of natural light and maintains an ideal temperature. Smart blinds can also be controlled remotely, so you can adjust them even when you’re not at home, optimising energy use throughout the day.
By thoughtfully choosing your window dressings, you can make a substantial impact on your home's energy efficiency. From thermal fabrics to smart technology, each choice contributes to a more sustainable, comfortable, and efficient home.
