Table of Contents
When temperatures spike, most of us do the same thing: crank the AC and hope it kicks in fast. But all that cool air can escape just as quickly as it arrives—especially if your windows are working against you. The good news? The right window treatments can make a big difference.
Whether you’re trying to keep a south-facing condo cool or manage light in a west-facing kitchen, strategic shades help reduce solar heat gain, lower your cooling bills, and keep your space feeling comfortable all summer long. This guide explores the best window treatments for beating the heat, saving energy, and upgrading your style in the process.
When to Layer Your Window Treatments
Combining two treatments gives you flexibility throughout the day—especially in high-traffic or multi-use rooms. Try pairing:
-
- Solar or roller shades + full-length curtains for added insulation
-
- Sheer + blackout shades to manage morning light and evening privacy
Layering also enhances the overall design of the room, adding softness and dimension. It’s also the perfect opportunity to play with textures and tones—if you’re unsure where to start, read our guide on choosing the right window treatment color to help tie everything together beautifully.
Quick Take: Layered shades reduce light gaps, improve insulation, and offer more versatility for changing weather conditions.
Go Smart: Shades That Work With Your Schedule
This is where function meets lifestyle. Smart shades don’t just raise and lower on command—they adapt to your daily routine.
Smart Integration Benefits:
-
- Sync shades with sunrise/sunset schedules
- Sync shades with sunrise/sunset schedules
-
- Use voice commands to open or close shades hands-free
-
- Program by room exposure (e.g. lower all west-facing shades at 3 p.m.)
For example, imagine your bedroom shades automatically closing during peak afternoon sun, then rising at sunrise to wake you gently. Or your living room shades dropping during the hottest hours while you’re at work.
Shade Strategy: With smart integration, shades become part of your energy-saving toolkit and comfort routine.
Room-by-Room: Best Summer Shades by Space
| Room | Recommended Shade Option |
| Living Room | Solar or light-filtering roller shades |
| Bedroom | Cellular blackout or reflective roller shades |
| Kitchen | Solar shades or light-filtering roller shades |
| Home Office | Solar screen shades with glare control |
| Bathroom | Light-colored roller shades |
| Skylights/High Windows | Motorized cellular or Atlas 2.0 bottom-up |
The Science Behind Solar Heat Gain
Solar heat gain refers to the increase in temperature inside a space due to sunlight entering through windows. Shortwave solar radiation penetrates glass easily, but once it hits a surface and converts to heat, that heat becomes harder to remove.
This trapped energy raises your indoor temperature, causing your cooling system to work harder. Window coverings with insulating properties or light-reflecting surfaces reduce this effect by either blocking the radiation altogether or limiting its conversion into heat.
Want to reduce heat more effectively this summer? Start by choosing treatments that offer thermal insulation and solar reflection—two key features in maintaining a cool, energy-efficient home.
What to Look for in Summer Shade Installation
Even the best shades underperform if they’re installed incorrectly.
-
- Inside mount looks cleaner but can allow light gaps unless measured precisely.
-
- Outside mount provides better coverage and insulation, especially for irregular or large windows.
FAQs About Heat-Reducing Window Treatments
Q: Do blackout shades really help with heat?
A: Yes. Especially when thermally lined, blackout fabrics block both light and heat effectively.
Q: Can light-filtering fabrics reduce heat? A: They do help—particularly those with solar coatings or reflective backings. But for extreme exposure, pair them with another layer or opt for solar shades.
Q: Are all solar shades energy-efficient?
A: Not necessarily. Look for ones with low openness (1% or 3%) and UV-blocking certifications.
Final Thoughts: Stay Cool, Stylish, and Energy-Smart
Beating the heat doesn’t mean hiding behind blackout curtains 24/7. With the right summer-ready window treatments, you can control heat, manage light, and enhance your home’s energy performance—all while keeping things stylish.
From cellular shades and solar screens to smart integrations that work with your schedule, your shades can do a lot more than you think. And when done right, you’ll feel the difference the moment you step inside.
Need help choosing the perfect shade for your home? Our team can guide you through it—room by room, window by window. If you’re considering a made-to-measure upgrade, here’s why custom window shades are often worth it.
