Summer is in full swing and while it’s tempting to turn up the air conditioner to keep your house cool on those long hot days, there is an alternative that is much more affordable and eco-friendly – window shutters. High quality shutters such as those from Nu Style Shutters help block out the summer light and heat, reducing cooling costs which will save you money and help save the environment. Want to know more? Read on to find out.
Up to 87% Of A Home’s Heat Is Gained Through Windows
Windows allow for light, warmth and fresh air to flow through. They also connect the interior of a home visually with the outside world and can often frame spectacular views. However, when it comes to energy efficiency, windows are usually one of the weakest links. According to recent studies, up to 40% of a home’s heating energy can be lost and up to 87% of its heat gained through windows. Improving the thermal performance of your windows significantly reduces energy costs and greenhouse gas emissions. Double glazing and careful consideration of window size, location and orientation can help, however to ensure the best thermal performance, you’ll need effective external window furnishings such as roller shutters.
Shading Windows for Summer
Depending on which way your windows face, there are a few different ways to shade them. This is because the height and angle of the sun changes as it moves through the sky and throughout the different seasons.
North-Facing Windows – Fixed shade structures, such as eaves and pergolas, are great for shading north-facing windows. Well-designed structures can stop the hot summer sun from hitting the glass, while still allowing low-level sun to penetrate and heat your home in winter. Adjustable external shading, such as outdoor blinds and roller-shutters are also ideal as they are affordable, easy to operate and allow the sun in during the winter months and keep it out on hot summer days.
East- and West-Facing Windows – Shutters on west facing windows in WA can reduce heat transfer by up to 80%. During summer, east-facing windows can be a major source of heat gain in the morning, while west-facing windows can be a major source of heat gain in the afternoon. Adjustable external shading such as outdoor blinds, louvres and shutters provide the flexibility to block the low-angled morning and afternoon sun at varying times of day. Pergolas and verandahs can also provide some benefit, but are not very effective at blocking out the lower-angled morning and afternoon summer sun.
South-Facing Windows – These windows receive almost no direct sunlight, so shading in summer isn’t necessary. However, cool breezes in summer often come from the south, so south-facing windows are very useful for cross ventilation. These windows will lose heat from the house in winter so it is a good idea that they are protected with double glazing or window furnishings such as heavy blinds shutters.
Shading your windows with Nu Style Shutters will keep out up to 87% of the sun’s heat out your home, which will significantly reduce the need for air conditioning. Shutters will also help to keep your home warmer in winter, reducing your need for electric or gas heating systems. High quality shutters are the ideal way to reduce your energy consumption, helping you do your part to reduce the effects of climate change on the environment – they will also save you hundreds on your energy bills!
For more information or for a free quotation, get in touch with the team at Nu Style Shutters online today or call 1300 798 776.
