Window Coverings and Energy Efficiency

wallcovering tips

    The selection of hard window coverings available to the public has never been greater. Not so long ago, consumers could choose between vertical, Venetian or roller blinds. Today, there are dozens of unique products specifically designed to address all concerns of covering a window.

    Vertical and Venetian blinds provide good flexibility in a window covering. These blinds can be retracted when not required and adjusted by "tilting" the vanes or slats. Vertical blinds are generally available in a 3 1/2" vane and come in fabric or PVC plastic styles. Venetian (or horizontal) blinds are constructed from PVC plastic, aluminum or wood. The blinds can be made in micro (1/2"), mini (1") or macro (2") versions.

    Generally speaking, verticals and horizontal blinds offer good value for the money. They are, however, easily damaged by children and may be difficult to retract or lift because of excessive weight.

    A new generation of window coverings arrived over the last few years. Products such as Duette, Silhouette and Vignette offer softness, light control, privacy and efficiency. These shades are very easy to operate and maintain. Cleaning involves no more than a gentle dusting or light vacuuming once or twice a year. These shades retract and virtually disappear into colour coordinated headrail or valance systems.

    Duette is a highly energy efficient shading system custom made to any window, skylight or solarium. See-through, semi-see-through, light-filtering and blackout styles complement a full selection of designer colours. Duette cellular shades can reduce heat transfer (summer and winter) by up to 81%. Damaging ultraviolet light will be reduced by over 99%.

    Silhouette combines the softness of a cellular shade with the convenience of a horizontal blind. Soft layers of fabric seem to float, supported by white sheer covering fabrics. Vignette is a rolling "Roman Shade". All the beauty of this traditional covering, without the cords, bulk or cumbersome stack.

    What ever your requirements are for window coverings, there are products with lifetime warranties to deal with privacy, energy efficiency and light control. Choose moveable window insulation products and consume less energy. Not only will this save you money, but you will also be helping the environment and creating a more comfortable home.