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Writer's pictureVern Taylor

Form and Function: Selecting Window Coverings Based On Where Your Windows Face



Your home's direction impacts how and when the sun hits each room. When choosing window coverings, it pays off to consider choosing them based on when and how the light hits that window.


The impact of windows based on the different directions a house faces

If your home faces South, it may have higher energy bills in the summer. Direct sunlight from the south causes heat to build up, forcing the AC to work harder. However, it may also be warmer in the winter for the same reason. Similarly, a north-facing home is often cool and comfortable in the summer but chilly and dark in the winter. Or, the sun will come in from multiple angles if your home doesn’t point in one of the four compass directions.


Depending on how much light you’d like to block out or let in, roller shades allows you to block out harmful UV rays that can damage furniture while still allowing some sunlight to enter the room. You can also select an opacity and color that will allow the outside view to remain visible, even when the shades are down. The addition of shades to the window allows the option to raise them and enjoy the sun's warmth during those chilly winter months.


Energy efficiency

Another big consideration is energy efficiency. Most energy-efficient window treatments use layers of fabric to improve insulation and control light in the room, keeping it cool in the summer and warm in the winter. Whether you like shades, drapes, blinds, or shutters, there are many energy-efficient window treatment choices perfect for south-facing windows.


window covering, roller shade, southern exposure
Roller shades can still provide light to enter the room. Photo Credit: Budget Blinds

Window shades

Window shades are a great way to provide insulation and control light without blocking it out, especially when paired with energy-efficient floor-to-ceiling drapes. Woven wooden shades pair well with natural interior design themes, while Roman shades look great in cozy spaces like breakfast rooms or dining rooms. Prevent UV damage to your decor with the materials you select, whether it is a shade or a UV-resistant window film


Indirect Light

Light-colored decor and window treatments in rooms with north-facing windows can help take advantage of gentle light. Interior shutters can let in as much or as little light as you like. In addition, their cordless design looks clean and uncluttered in kitchens, bathrooms, and home offices.


Sheer curtains add gentle textures and patterns to your interior decor without restricting sunlight. Combined with blinds or shades, they can help create an elegant, versatile, and functional window for evening privacy.


Rooms facing East or West will need to control light in either the morning or afternoon. In these cases, the light will need to be diffused or blocked with room darkening materials for part of the day. It is important to note that sunset may project warmer color tones into the room. Even better, motorized window treatments can be programmed to change based on the time of day. This is a convenient option for perfect light without lifting a finger.


Window covering, drapes, room-darkening
Floor-to-ceiling panels with a room-darkening liner will cover the entire window, blocking out those pesky morning rays. Photo Credit: Budget Blinds


You can find more information at www.budgetblinds.com/westessex/.

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