SHOPPING TIPS
Window treatments can be minimal or dramatic. Here’s how to find the right look for your home.
• Minimal: Roller shades can blend in seamlessly if you choose a color similar to your walls. Select shades that mount to the inside of your window frames for a built-in look or pick outside-mounting shades to make your windows appear larger. These shades work well in modern settings, but also can be layered under drapes for a traditional aesthetic.
• Dramatic: Hang curtains from floor to ceiling, letting the hems pool a couple of inches on the floor.
The gorgeous spring weather expected this weekend makes it easy to forget the hot and humid conditions that await us in a few months.
But before summer weather kicks your air conditioner into overdrive, consider window treatments that can lower your energy costs. They vary from sleek, modern roller shades to traditional awnings. In the dog days, they’ll help keep the house cool. Many are also designed to insulate against chilly days in winter.
Solar shades
The Shade Store makes open-weave solar shades designed to absorb heat, block ultraviolet rays, reduce glare and protect your belongings from fading while preserving your view. The densest weave blocks 97 percent of UV rays, while the loosest weave prevents 90 percent. Choose highly reflective colors such as white for the best results; darker colors will absorb more heat. Prices start at $66 at theshadestore.com.
Cellular shades
Levolor makes cellular shades with a mylar center that restricts 85 to 90 percent of UV rays. Bali uses a thick fabric for its version that blocks 80 percent. The shades, which are made to order, start at $80 at Lowe’s (shown below).
Awnings and outdoor shades
Awnings offer a more traditional look to your house’s exterior while controlling heat, glare and sun damage. Plow and Hearth sells an acrylic canvas version that resists water, mildew and fading for $139.95-$229.95. Or you can mount an outdoor roller shade to your patio; find one by Gila at Lowe’s for $96-$120.
Curtains
Retailers including Target and Plow and Hearth sell drapes in assorted styles that insulate from heat and cold. At plowhearth.com, you can find a contemporary grommet style that’s made from a 100-percent cotton, sailclothlike fabric and backed with an acrylic foam lining. It sells for $54.95-$69.95 and also filters light and reduces noise. Target stocks a 100 percent polyester version for $29.99. If you prefer to keep your own drapes, Plow and Hearth offers a universal curtain liner that reduces sunlight and drafts for $24.95-$29.95.
Window films
You can cut and apply window films yourself. The Platinum model by Gila reflects up to 70 percent of the sun’s heat, while the Light model blocks up to 55 percent. They also restrict up to 99 percent of ultraviolet rays without inhibiting views. A 45 square-foot roll is $49.73-$35.88 at Lowe’s.
