Over the past two years, the energy crisis has dominated the headlines. The pandemic, Russia’s invasion of Ukraine and increased demand for goods have created a perfect storm and caused energy bills to skyrocket to previously unprecedented levels. The situation shows no signs of improving, with energy bills this year expected to be 50% higher than the same period in 2021.
With this in mind, many households are now looking for ways to reduce this figure. One small change that can achieve big results is to invest in new, energy-efficient blinds and shutters. But just how do blinds and shutters help you to save money on your energy bills? And what are the most energy-efficient styles? The team here at James Martin Blinds is here to explain and help reduce your energy bills ahead of the upcoming winter period.
How do blinds and shutters make your home more energy efficient?
Whilst you may just see your blinds and shutters as simple window coverings, they are actually so much more. Properly installed blinds and shutters help your home become more energy efficient by offering a multitude of benefits, including:
Insulation:
It’s estimated that up to 18% of your home’s heat is lost through its windows, with this figure increasing if your windows are single-glazed. Blinds and shutters offer an extra layer of insulation to protect against this, creating an efficient barrier that traps heat inside the room.
Temperature control:
Your blinds and shutters can also help to regulate temperature, preventing your home from becoming too hot in the summer and too cold in the winter. By strategically adjusting your blinds based on the time of day and the amount of sunlight, you can reduce your reliance on heating and air conditioning systems, potentially resulting in lower energy bills.
Draught prevention:
When correctly installed, your blinds and shutters will fit snugly to your window frame, preventing draughts and heat loss.
Most energy-efficient blinds and shutter styles
Honeycomb blinds
Sometimes referred to as Duette blinds, honeycomb blinds can significantly reduce heat loss from your windows. They are so called because of their unique honeycomb structure that traps air into individual pockets; this then forms a barrier which prevents heat from escaping.
Plantation shutters
Plantation shutters have soared in popularity over recent years and can bring a hint of the Mediterranean to any home. Not only are plantation shutters incredibly stylish, but research has shown that well-fitting shutters can reduce heat loss by a whopping 58%! Most plantation shutters are constructed with wood, which is a natural insulator, and feature adjustable louvres. When closed, these louvres create a strong thermal barrier and help to reduce heat transfer and draughts; however, they can be adjusted to offer precise light control and increased air circulation in the summer.
Perfect Fit blinds
As the name implies, Perfect Fit blinds are a style of blind that fit snugly to your window frame. They are directly attached to the beading of your window and completely cover the glass, reducing heat transfer and leaving no gaps for draughts. Available in a variety of materials and styles, they are sure to suit any interior.
Automated blinds
Automated blinds can be operated with the simple touch of a button to make opening and closing your blinds easier than ever. Many electric blinds can also be incorporated into existing smart home systems, meaning that you can control your blinds from your smartphone. This means that even if you’re not at home, you can conserve heat by adjusting your blinds depending on the sunlight, temperature and time of day.
Blackout blinds
Although the primary function of blackout blinds is to block out sunlight, their thick dense material has excellent insulating properties. When closed, they trap all the heat inside to help maintain a cosy interior temperature.
Are you looking for more energy-efficient blinds and shutters? Get in touch with the experts at James Martin Blinds today. We supply and install high-quality, durable blinds to homes across Norfolk, Suffolk and Essex, including Colchester and Chelmsford and beyond. Having been in operation since 2004, our team knows a thing or two about blinds and can provide advice on the best styles for insulation — contact us to find out more.
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