Sunlight streaming through windows can make your home uncomfortably hot, increase energy bills, and even fade furniture. Effectively blocking the sun’s heat is key to maintaining a cool, energy-efficient space. Whether you opt for budget-friendly DIY methods or advanced high-tech innovations, there’s an option to suit your needs.
This blog will explore cheap ways to block heat from windows so you can keep your home comfortable year-round.
11 Budget-Friendly Ways to Block Sun Heat from Windows
There are numerous cheap ways to block sun heat from windows. The effectiveness of these methods varies, with some offering better results than others. Additionally, certain options may provide a more polished and aesthetically pleasing finish.
By comprehensively exploring and contrasting your alternatives, you’ll gain a thorough understanding of the implications and outcomes associated with each attempt to shield your home from the oppressive heat of sunlight. Here’s how to block sun heat from windows:
1. Heat Blocking Window Shades
Window shades provide a simple DIY solution to combat heat gain, especially when using lighter colors that reflect sunlight. For the best results, choose shades designed to block heat effectively and mount them close to the window. Drapes can add aesthetic appeal, but it’s important to consider the cost before making a choice.
2. Panel Blind
Blackout blinds effectively block light and sunlight, providing some heat protection. They work best when placed close to windows and can reflect heat to a degree. However, their primary strength is light control rather than cooling. If reducing heat is your main goal, consider dedicated heat-blocking options for better results.
3. External Window Shades
This is often thought to be a cheap way to block heat from windows. Create shade outside your window by strategically placing plants or installing awnings. While DIY is an option, professional assistance can ensure optimal results. Plants help cool the air by releasing water vapor, while awnings or eaves reduce direct sunlight exposure. Consulting specialists can help you achieve the best shading and cooling effect for your space.
4. Bubble Wrap
Bubble wrap is an unexpectedly effective heat insulator, thanks to its miniature air pockets that act as barriers to prevent heat transfer. While it may not be the most visually appealing option, it can reduce heat transfer by up to 50%.
What makes bubble wrap stand out from aluminum foil is its ability to let light filter through while still providing insulation. Best of all, it’s a virtually cost-free solution, making it the most economical way to insulate windows and block heat without spending a dime.
5. Heat Reducing Window Film
Have you considered employing a specialized heat-reducing plastic film? This is often thought to be the best way to block sun heat from windows.
You can purchase dedicated insulating plastic film designed for windows. When applied to the interior glass, this film creates a small air gap, similar to the effect of bubble wrap. While the impact may not be dramatic, covering all your windows with this film can help reduce heat infiltration while allowing natural light to filter through.
6. Cellular Shades
Cellular shades are both stylish and energy-efficient, designed with pleated layers that form a honeycomb pattern to reduce heat transfer. They can block about 60% of the sun’s heat energy, offering excellent insulation. Unlike permanent window films, cellular shades provide flexibility, as they can be easily adjusted. In winter, they can be rolled up to welcome solar heat, making them a versatile choice for year-round temperature control.
7. Upgrading to Energy Efficient Window
Recent advancements in window engineering have significantly improved energy efficiency, potentially reducing costs through lower power bills. Before purchasing, be sure to check the light-to-solar gain (LSG) rating, which indicates how well different glass types balance daylight transmission and heat blocking. Additionally, explore various energy-efficient window options and compare performance ratings to effectively enhance heat prevention in windows.
8. Weatherstripping on Windows
Applying weatherstripping around your windows is one of the quickest and most cost-effective ways to insulate them and prevent heat from entering. Gaps around windows are common sources of air leaks, making weatherstripping an effective solution for sealing them. It’s especially useful for summer insulation, helping to maintain indoor comfort. Be sure to explore different types of weatherstripping to find the best option for each window type.
9. Insulated Window Quilts
Insulated window quilts are an excellent choice for an energy-efficient solution to block sun and heat from windows. These thick, multi-layered fabric coverings create a barrier that traps heat, helping maintain a comfortable indoor temperature. The key to their effectiveness is a snug fit. Window quilts need to be installed properly. They can only prevent warm air from entering your home through gaps and reduce heat transfer.
Window quilts are quite different from traditional blinds. They offer insulation and aesthetic appeal, making them a practical and appealing window heat blocker. Many people use them during peak summer months when sunlight is most intense. They help cut down on cooling costs while keeping home interiors comfortable.
10. Planting Shade Trees
Strategically placing shade trees around your home can significantly reduce the heat reaching your windows. Opt for trees with dense foliage to provide ample shade, especially during peak heat hours. This natural approach not only blocks sunlight effectively but also enhances the aesthetic appeal of your property.
11. Draperies
One of the simplest and most stylish ways to block sun heat from windows is by using draperies. Thick, tightly woven fabrics, such as velvet or thermal-backed curtains, act as an effective window heat blocker, reducing indoor temperatures significantly. You can opt for draperies with a reflective backing, which helps bounce heat away instead of absorbing it. To maximize their efficiency, install drapes as close to the window as possible and let them hang down to the floor, ensuring minimal heat penetration. Layering sheer and blackout curtains provides flexibility, allowing natural light in when needed while still offering insulation against excessive warmth.
Conclusion
Keeping your home cool and comfortable is achievable with these 11 best ways to block sun heat from windows. Whether you opt for premium solutions or cheap ways to block heat from windows, there are many ways to significantly reduce sunlight’s impact, creating a cooler and more pleasant indoor environment during the hottest months.
Bravo Protection: Block Sun Heat with Window Tinting
Bravo Protection offers top-tier window tinting in Minneapolis MN, providing an effective solution to block sun heat and enhance comfort for both residential and commercial spaces. We have been a trusted name in the region for over two decades, delivering high-quality window tint installations that reduce glare and heat and protect interiors from harmful UV rays.
Whether you want to improve energy efficiency in your home, safeguard your furniture and flooring, or elevate the aesthetics of your office, our premium window tinting services are customized to meet your needs so you can enjoy a more comfortable environment while cutting down on cooling costs and maintaining privacy. Contact Bravo Protection today.
FAQs
1. Is it better to have curtains or blinds?
Ans. Full-length curtains impart an elegant touch and are ideal for expansive rooms. Blinds are more suitable for compact spaces and moisture-prone areas like bathrooms and kitchens.
2. Do I still need curtains if I have blinds?
Ans. Frequently, we encounter the question, “Can curtains and blinds be used together?” The response is generally affirmative—these two elements can create a versatile decor while effectively managing light and ensuring privacy. Nevertheless, adhering to specific style guidelines is essential to achieving aesthetic harmony.
3. Why do curtains tend to look cheap?
Ans.Opting for curtains that are too short may give a room an incomplete and inexpensive look. It is also advisable to enhance the fullness of your window coverings by incorporating additional fabric. You can achieve this by doubling the curtain panels’ width or using multiple panels on each side of the window.