Hot temperatures, stifling air, and blazing sun—all of these may be expected if you’re on vacation in the tropics, but it’s definitely not what you want when you’re trying to chill out in the comfort of your own home. Summer’s heat may be annoying, but it’s also avoidable—especially if you make smart moves to keep your windows from ushering the heat indoors.
This summer, beat that blistering heat with these different approaches to making your windows work for you instead of against you. From low-tech options to installing gorgeous new windows, we’ve got options that will suit you. Read on to learn more.
1. Indoor Window Treatments and Solutions
Start with looking at your current interior setup, and pay attention to areas where blazing sunlight needs to be stopped in its tracks. Consider these approaches:
Make the Most of Blinds
Windows draw in a lot of natural light, so in the summer, make sure you’re actively blocking that light when the sun is at its strongest. Close blinds and shades when you leave for work, and don’t open them if the sun is blazing in. Simply following this simple rule can reduce your energy bills and lower indoor temperatures. And don’t be deterred by the thought you’ll have to hang boring, industrial shades—because these days, there are numerous beautiful blinds and treatments you can choose to grace your windows.
Install Sun-Blocking Drapes
Blackout drapes and shades are great at keeping unwanted heat from penetrating through windowpanes. Look for fabrics and styles that indicate they block the sun. Even a medium-colored drape with white plastic backing can deliver as much as a 33% drop in heat gain. Make sure the drapes you choose are long enough to fully cover your windows, and secure them in a closed position with Velcro or fabric ties.
Close Windows During the Hottest Parts of the Day
When summer weather is in full swing, it’s best to keep windows closed. While trying to bring in fresh breezes can seem like a good idea, this works against you on hot days because you’ll end up with overly warm air indoors. Resist opening windows if it’s warmer outside than it is inside. Couple this with practical approaches by saying no to oven baking and saying yes to turning on ceiling fans—and you’ll make your home more comfortable.
2. Outdoor Window Solutions to Cool Your Home
You’re not limited to what you can do inside your house. Take advantage of things you can do outside too. Planting a shade tree is helpful, but it will take time to grow. The following options give you more immediate results.
Install an Awning or Outdoor Sunshade
Blinds and drapes aren’t the only tool for creating shade around your windows. External coverings come in a variety of styles—such as heat-reflecting awnings, stylish shutters, charming bamboo screens, and retractable sunshades. All of these can provide an attractive and practical way to block steamy sunlight before it can enter your home and make your indoors uncomfortable.
Apply Low-E (Heat-Controlling) Film
While the easiest way to get low-emissivity glass is to choose new windows that offer this feature, you might also be able to apply a film to your current windows. Low-E film basically slows the passage of heat through glass—so the sun’s UV rays get reflected back outdoors instead of getting inside to heat your home.
Add Fresh Caulk to the Seams
Old caulk can break down or fall off, leaving small gaps that allow in summer’s hot air. These little drafts can add up to a lot of interior discomfort, while forcing your AC to run longer and harder. Simply doing a quick inspection of your window frames and shoring them up with new caulk where needed can help cool air stay inside where it belongs. Remember also, sealing gaps also keeps warm air inside during Chicago’s frigid winters for year-round comfort and efficiency.
3. Energy-Efficient Replacement Windows—the Top Solution
Indoor and outdoor window treatments can help make a difference—but the best way, hands down, to improve your interior comfort in summertime is to invest in beautiful, energy-efficient windows. Here’s why:
Snug New Frames that Eliminate Drafts
Drafty windows are often caused by issues such as seal failure and damaged frames—two issues that can’t be easily addressed with small repairs. If you’ve caulked your windows but are still feeling unwanted airflow, replacement windows are the best bet. For optimal results, consider fiberglass frames which hold their shape and stop drafts.
Multiple Panes Filled with Insulating Gas
Another superb energy-efficient feature of today’s replacement windows is insulating gas (argon or krypton) between two or three panes of glass. Between the multiple panes and the gas fill inside them, summer’s heat (and winter’s chill too!) will have a hard time penetrating into your home.
Built-in Low-E Glass
While you can add heat-blocking film to existing windows, you’ll enjoy better insulating results (and appreciate the attractive look too!) if you start out with glass that’s already been treated. Choose brand-new windows with Low-E glass included—which will prevent heat from getting indoors.
Transform Your Home with Energy-Efficient Windows Installed by Chicago’s Pros
If your aging windows need improvement to give you the performance you deserve, installing gorgeous replacement windows can breathe fresh life into your home. Keeping your indoors comfy in summer is just one of many benefits you’ll get from new windows, along with boosted beauty, security, and ease of use.
Our Siding & Windows Group crews are exclusively trained in window installations—so you get precision results that give you peace of mind. We’d love to talk windows with you and help you find the right solutions for your home. Learn more about our window replacement services—and reach out anytime for a free consultation.
