This time of year, our Blindsgalore Texas customers have a real challenge keeping their homes cool, and we sell a lot of solar shades there. But there are some other ideas to help Texas homes stay cooler, so I thought I’d share some ideas for our friends in the Lone Star State.
1. Window films. Some Texas residents advocate the use of adhesive window films, which help block out UV rays and heat. These films are effective, especially when used with a blind, but they can be expensive to install, and some people don’t care for the fact that, unlike blinds, once they are up, there is no alternative, while a window blind can be lowered or raised.
2. Blinds and shades. In Texas, the right window blind or shade can make a huge difference. Look for solar shades and solar screens to keep out harmful UV rays or cellular shades with honeycomb construction to help insulate rooms against the outdoor temperature. For more flexibility, many people prefer a wood or faux wood blind whose slats can be tilted to control the amount of light entering the room. White and reflective colors work best in climates like Texas.
3. Awnings, outdoor shades and blinds. Stop the sun before it reaches your window surface. Awnings and outdoor solar shades or woven wood blinds provide shade from the Texas sun to keep the entire window area cooler. Awnings are great for windows with southern and western exposure, but they can be costly, and must be installed properly to avoid wind damage from Texas summer storms. Outdoor shades and blinds are a more affordable solution for many.
4. Landscaping. Creative landscaping that provides shade is a natural, earth-friendly solution to the Texas sun. When combined with the use of indoor blinds, the plants that thrive in Texas can help keep your rooms cooler. For a fast-growing solution, consider bamboo. Many varieties grow very quickly to provide some shade in one season. However, it can spread quickly to other areas, so experts recommend keeping it in a container for best results.
5. Plantation shutters. Interior shutters are an alternative to window blinds that offer a rich southern-style look popular with Texas homeowners. Plantation shutters are a significant investment, but add long-term value to the home. They are most often white in color to help reflect heat. More affordable faux wood shutters are now available that are also more durable than real wood shutters, and can be used in areas of high humidity without fear of damage.
5 Easy Solutions for Blinds in Your Texas Home
