Do you worry about the cold air coming in through your windows? Plantation shutters are a great way to keep your home comfortable. They offer both energy efficiency and insulation that can help keep your home warmer.
Not to mention, they’re a beautiful, timeless window treatment! These days, plantation shutters come in all shapes, sizes and colors so it’s easy to find something that fits your style. Let’s talk more about how plantation shutters can make winter less chilly.
How Plantation Shutters Keep Your Home Warm
Having the right window treatment can make a big difference in your comfort and energy costs.
Out of all the areas in your home, your windows are responsible for losing the most heat during the winter. Single-pane windows with an aluminum frame lose the most energy. While double-pane windows with a wood or vinyl frame are better, they can still make your home feel cold.
Here’s how plantation shutters can help stop heat loss during the wintertime.
- They’re made from thick materials with a high R-value. This measurement calculates how well insulation keeps heat from leaving or entering your home. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, wood shutters have an R-value of 3-4. That’s more than two times greater than blinds and nearly two times better than shades. Polymer shutters rank at 6 or greater, making them one of the most energy-efficient window treatments. Because they’re so energy efficient, you may find your home feels more comfortable at a lower temperature.
- They fit tightly against your windows, creating an extra barrier. The way plantation shutters fit windows plays into their high R-value. The highest quality ones are custom made for your home to ensure peak energy efficiency and comfort. Other window coverings, like curtains, blinds and shades, don’t offer as secure of a fit.
- They fit unique windows. Some window styles, like arches, circles and bay, are more difficult to cover. As a result, their energy efficiency can suffer. But this isn’t the case with custom shutters, since they can be made to fit just about any window.
Other Ways to Make Your House More Energy Efficient in Winter
Having the right window treatment goes a long way in keeping your home cozy and heating bills low. Here are a few other ways you can save energy this winter:
- Maximize natural warmth. Make the most of the sun’s heat by keeping south-facing window treatments open during the day and closed at night.
- Keep your thermostat at the right temperature. The Department of Energy recommends 68 degrees during the day. When you’re away or asleep, you can set your thermostat between 64-65 degrees. You can eliminate some of the guesswork and extra work by installing a smart thermostat. This device learns your temperature preferences and schedule, and then creates energy-efficient programming to match.
- Set ceiling fans to reverse. Warm air collects near the ceiling but running your ceiling fan in reverse can redistribute that air.
- Change your air filter regularly. A dirty air filter can cause your HVAC system to work harder and consume more energy. Flat filters should be changed monthly, while pleated filters can last for up to three months. A good rule of thumb is to change yours whenever you can’t see light through it.
- Schedule a home energy audit. Many utility companies offer this service for free and will give you ideas on how you can improve your home’s energy efficiency. Some of these ideas may include installing LED bulbs, sealing leaks and checking insulation.
- Add more attic insulation. Most homes don’t have enough attic insulation, which helps regulate indoor temperatures and prevent heat loss. Southern climates should have 13”–14”, while northern climates should have 16”–18”.
Keep Your Home Comfortable with Window Treatments from Louver Shop
Plantation shutters aren’t just a smart choice for cold weather. They can also keep you cooler during the summer and reduce your air conditioning bills. At Louver Shop, we’ve been specializing in making homes like yours more beautiful and energy efficient since [[year]]. To learn more about how plantation shutters can keep you comfortable, call us at 888-249-5655 to schedule a free, in-home consultation.