Insulated Window Coverings

Compared to others in its class, insulated window coverings provide you with several advantages such as light control, temperature control, wind control as well as style. A lot of people especially those living in snowy and windy areas invest in this type for maximum convenience and safety. Find out more how to choose the right material and design for your home.

Defining Insulation

Thermal or insulated window coverings were designed to help control draft without compromising the interior coolness of the room. These can come in various forms such as draperies, sheers and shades with insulated linings that also provide different levels of heat loss. R-value is defined as the capacity of a window to manage temperature. By using this special kind of coverings, you will be able to improve simple R-1 up to R-5 or R-6.

Windows preferably should be airtight especially around the corners since draft, even if controlled by effective treatments can still pass through weak spots. Convection drafts can also manifest if the warm interior air comes in contact with cold windowpanes. Any covering you use should be properly installed to coincide with the pane structure and position to resist drafts while maintaining the right inside temperature. The first step is to check your window caulking. Prices of treatments will vary depending on the materials used, the size and the model. Ready-made products are also comparably cheaper than custom-made ones. Draperies can be homemade too which can save you extra hundreds of dollars.

Knowing Your Options

Cellular shades are a popular choice among buyers since these are very beautiful to look at and are easy to operate. Honeycomb shades are also available which also are made of fabric like cellular models. These types usually have air pockets that give another layer of insulation, blocking as much as over 60% of heat transfer through the window pane. New designs use either one or two layers of individual cells that block and absorb drafts. The shades can also control light at different levels anywhere from translucent to full blackout. The appearance is highly recommended for innovative, casual and contemporary interiors.

For country-style or casual interiors, you may better off using traditional insulated drapes. These are made of light to heavy fabrics that come with concealed magnetic strips that function to block cold air. The heavier the fabric, the greater the insulation control. You may use more than one fabric depending on your thermal needs. Some individuals also use two or more fabrics using a unique pattern or color for each for aesthetic purposes. The inner covering is preferred to be made of cotton or cotton blend fabric while the outer covering is made of drapery lining. You will find a number of reliable companies online that can make and match your specifications.

Blinds are another alternative to draperies and shades. These are described as slatted window coverings that provide more light control and privacy than shades. Blinds are also very easy to operate but have limitations when it comes to thermal control. Individuals may find drafts moving in through the corners although newer models have been improved to ensure that edges remain airtight. Insulated blinds may be made of fiber glass, wood, metal, glass or plastic. These are also known for durability due to ability to resist extreme weather conditions and harsh environments.