Solar shades are known for their ability to reduce glare and block harmful UV rays, but as temperatures start to drop, many homeowners wonder: Can solar shades also help keep out the cold?
Not particularly. Let’s take a closer look at how solar shades work and why solar shades aren’t the best shade for the winter season.
How Solar Shades Work
Solar shade fabrics are generally referred to in the context of “opacity” and in percentages of “openness.” Openness indicates the tightness of the fabric weave, which is an indication of the percentage of light that can penetrate through (e.g. 1%, 3%, 5%, etc.).
A low percentage (i.e. 1-5%) means the fabric is tightly woven, so there’s less light that filters through and low visibility. A high number (i.e. 14%) has a looser fabric weave which allows more light in and provides greater visibility.
In the hot weather months, interior solar shades can reduce incoming heat by 30 to 70 percent, which will help decrease energy costs. However, solar shades don’t provide the same insulation benefits as other window shades. They are designed for light filtration versus trapping air, so their thin design won’t keep out the cold.
What Can Solar Shades Do for You in Winter?
Solar shades still offer a few benefits during the colder months. In addition to allowing an outside view, solar shades can:
- Reduce Glare: They eliminate glare on screens, making them perfect for home offices and media rooms.
- Provide UV Protection: Solar shades reflect light and can block up harmful UV rays. They can keep your floors and furniture from being damaged.
- Maximize Sunlight During the Day: Solar shades filter in sunlight, which can naturally warm up a room during the day.
What Are the Alternatives?
If you’re looking for energy-efficient window coverings that will help insulate your home against the cold, consider these options:
- Blackout Curtains: Adding curtains is one way to keep the benefits of solar shades and improve your insulation. Blackout curtains insulate a home better than light-filtering curtains because they have more fabric to block out light. Blackout curtains also provides an additional layer of privacy.
- Shutters: Real wood and faux wood shutters are great insulators against the heat and cold.
- Cellular Shades: These shades feature a honeycomb structure that traps air, creating a barrier between your home and the cold air outside. They’re one of the best choices if you’re looking to improve insulation and keep your home warm.
Are Solar Shades Enough to Keep Out the Cold?
No, not by themselves. Solar shades are not designed for insulating homes in colder months. However, you can pair them with blackout curtains to block out the cold in the winter and keep their UV protection benefits year round. If you have any more questions, chat with one of our Design Consultants at (888) 257-1840. They’re easy to talk to!