With UK energy bills skyrocketing, many Brits are looking for cost-effective ways to keep their homes warm this winter. An often overlooked solution? Window blinds. The right blinds act as an insulating barrier between your windows and interior, providing an extra layer of defence against icy drafts. They also retain warmth generated inside, helping regulate your home’s temperature.
In this article, we’ll explore how different types of blinds utilise special materials and construction to optimise insulation. We’ll provide tips on installation and daily use to maximise efficiency. And we’ll share some bonus benefits you can enjoy with well-insulated blinds.
Blinds That Block Cold Air
What makes some blinds better than others at preventing heat loss? It comes down to their ability to trap air. Materials like wood and foam, and designs like honeycomb or cellular shades, have tiny air pockets that create a thermal barrier. The trapped air stops cold drafts from penetrating the window while keeping furnace-warmed air hugging your interiors.
Efficient options like thermal-backed Roman blinds and insulated roller shades take this a step further with inserts of insulation or foam built right into the fabric. This combination of materials makes for exceptional efficiency.
Choosing the Best Blinds for Warmth
So which window treatments should you invest in for optimal insulation? Here are our top recommendations:
- Honeycomb Blinds – With their signature cellular design, these honeycomb blinds are stars when it comes to insulation. Multiple layers of air pockets prevent heat from passing through the glazing. Go for a pleated honeycomb for the highest thermal performance.
- Roman Blinds – Offering a stylish twist on insulation, Roman blinds have a smooth fabric facing but thermal backing of insulation or cushioned foam. This traps heat alongside the aesthetic appeal.
- Roller Blinds – Unfurled roller blinds keep windows covered with a protective barrier. Opt for multilayer, insulated designs with reflective or low-E coatings to deflect heat back into the room.
No matter which style you choose, look for quality thermal fabrics to guarantee the best insulation.
Installation and Daily Use
Once you’ve picked out your blinds, make sure they are properly installed and optimally used:
- Mount blinds as close to windows as possible to eliminate gaps where air could enter. Inside or ceiling casing works better than outside mounting.
- During daylight hours, open blinds to allow sunshine to naturally heat your home’s interior. Close them at dusk to retain the captured warmth.
- Adjust angles to control heat gain and loss. Completely drawn blinds provide the most insulation overnight.
Added Benefits of Insulated Blinds
While keeping your home comfortably warm might be the priority, insulated blinds offer extra advantages too:
- Improved noise reduction – Materials muffle outside sounds from traffic or noisy neighbours.
- Enhanced privacy – Opaque thermal fabrics prevent light transmission both ways.
- Visually appealing – Choose from stylish colours and textural materials as a decorative upgrade over standard blinds.
- Versatility – Insulating window treatments suit any room from bedroom to kitchen to basement.
As energy costs climb, give your home an efficiency upgrade with new insulated blinds. Browse our full range of thermal window coverings for contemporary colours and durable designs guaranteed to keep the heat where it belongs – inside with you!
Conclusion
Our experts here at Paul James Blinds share a passion for great design and superior window insulation. We offer a wide range of solutions to keep your home stylishly warm all winter. If you have any questions about choosing the most efficient blinds for your home, or would just like helpful advice on installation, do get in touch. We would be happy to assist you in turning your house into a toasty haven this winter – and saving money on your energy bills for years to come!
FAQs
What’s the minimum thermal insulation I should look for in blinds?
Go for blinds with a tog rating of 1.5 and higher for sufficient winter insulation. Honeycomb and Roman blinds often exceed tog 3.
Do blinds lose their insulating properties over time?
Quality blinds will retain the same thermal performance for many years. Look for durable, fade-resistant fabrics.
Where should I install the blinds – inside or outside my windows?
Inside mounting blocks draft best. Go as close to windows as possible.
Can I install insulating blinds myself?
While possible, we recommend professional installation to ensure optimal efficiency.
Do insulated blinds come in different colours?
Absolutely! Choose from a wide variety of colours and styles to match your home’s decor.
Will insulating blinds reduce noise as well as insulate?
Multi-layered materials provide great sound muffling. A win-win for both warmth and noise reduction.
