Is there anything more welcoming than a room bathed in natural light? I can’t think of anything…unless it’s 90 degrees outside and that sunlit room feels like a sauna. Luckily there’s a window treatment that’s designed to help control the temperature by reflecting the sun rays—SOLAR SHADES!
One of my clients had a beautiful screened porch, but she couldn’t even sit out there summer mornings to enjoy her coffee because the room had already heated up. We installed the solar shades in the picture below and they made a HUGE difference. The porch is much cooler, even during those hot summers we experience here in the south.
Solar shades have different openness factors, depending upon the weave’s tightness and the corresponding shade percentage it provides. The most common weaves are 1%, 3%, 5% and 10%. The higher the number, the looser the weave, which will allow more light in. The 10% would have the loosest weave, will allow the most light in, and will allow you to see more of a view outside than the 5% weave would.
Controlling heat in the summer is just one of the many benefits of solar shades. I’d call them a SUPER POWER SHADE because they can do A LOT.
Energy Efficient
Obviously, blocking the sun’s heat and UV rays in the summer means your air conditioner will run less, but solar shades also offer insulation. They help keep the cool air inside. In the winter, they help keep the heat inside. When your furnace and air conditioner aren’t running all day long, your energy bills will be lower.
UV Protection
Solar shades can help protect your investments by keeping out those harmful UV rays. UV rays can cause fading or discoloration in your furniture, flooring and artwork.
Increased Privacy
Although the natural light will still filter through solar shades, the people outside can’t see in during the day. One of my clients wanted natural light in her room, but didn’t want to see her neighbor’s porch when she looked outside. Installing solar shades allowed the light in while restricting her view of that porch.
Glare Reduction
Solar shades are a great tool to REDUCE GLARE ON YOUR SCREENS—TV’s or computer monitors. That’s healthier for your vision too! One of my clients got a lot of direct sun and heat into his home office, but he didn’t want to hide his great view. Solar shades were the perfect solution.
Air Quality Control
The tight weave of solar shades can reduce the amount of outdoor pollutants that enter your living space.
Great Selection
Whatever your style preference, there’s a solar shade that will complement your space. They come in a variety of colors, patterns and textures.
Easy to Clean
Wiping them down with a damp cloth is all it takes to keep them looking their best. How easy is that!
Motorization
Solar shades can be motorized with automation, just like roller shades. You can set the time for when you want them to open and close. And you can get rechargeable motors—plug in or solar charged.
Yes, I’d definitely say solar shades are a SUPER POWER investment for your home!
