What if I told you that, with careful use of Internal Solar Shading, your energy consumption could be reduced by as much as 16%.*
Window glazing is the weakest part in any homes overall thermal performance and a major source of heat loss. So, covering the windows with an additional thermal layer makes sense.
Using Solar Shading for Thermal Benefits
It is estimated that around 50% of UK homes have energy inefficient glazing, resulting in high levels of solar gain during the Summer and increased heat loss during the winter. *
Appropriately controlled shading can reduce heat loss in the Winter and heat gain in the summer, reducing the buildings heating and cooling costs.
Solar Shading can allow for natural ventilation during warmer months, helping to maintain better indoor air quality.
During the colder months, the addition of a layer over the windows creates an air gap, thus reducing heat loss.
Best Types of Internal Shading for Thermal Benefits
Wooden Shutters
Wood is a natural insulator, so it makes sense that wooden shutters would work well to reduce heat loss and solar gain. And, of course, the louvres on Plantation Shutters can be tilted to shade whilst still allowing air flow
Roman Blinds or Curtains with a Thermal Interlining
Using Thermal Lining on Roman Blinds or curtains adds an extra layer to the blinds. In turn this helps reduce Solar Gain in the Summer and heat loss in the colder months. When the blinds or curtains are closed that is.
Roller Blinds with a Solar Reflective Coating.
A Solar Reflective Coating is applied to the window facing side of some Roller Blind fabrics. This coating reflects some of the light back our through the window. Fabrics which Reflect light are very good at reducing Solar Gain and Heat Loss. The use of a thicker fabric helps to create a barrier at the window. In addition, this is one of the more cost effective solutions, which will pay for itself in reduced energy bills.
Cellular Pleated Blinds
The Cellular Pleated Blinds were created for better insulation in conservatorys where there are huge temperature changes. The honeycomb shaped structure helps to trap air, creating an effective barrier, reducing Solar Gain and Heat Loss.
Motorise Your Blinds for Better Control
Many of our Blinds can be motorised and with the use of a Hub and the App, can be set to raise and lower when Solar control is needed. For instance during the colder winter months program the blinds to raise during the day, to capture warmth from the sun, and close when the sun has moved, or at dusk to preserve the heat inside.
Some Blind Motors can be connected to a sensor to allow a smart measurement of the sunlight and automatically lower or raise the blinds for optimum shading.
There are many ways window coverings can help reduce your energy usage, and with that your bills. Contact us today to book your appointment to find out more.
*Based on information from independent studies by the BBSA (British Blinds and Shutters Association) and The National Energy Foundation