Windows act as a source of heat in addition to being a factor in draftiness. Insulating is just as important in the summer as in the winter, and there are some ways to cut costs when doing so. Here are some tips for keeping your home cool in the warmer months.
Use cellular shades
Custom window treatments that fully cover your window are typically more efficient than using curtains that let the sun in at places. Cellular shades help to trap the heat between layers of material, which keeps it out of the room. If you have a south-facing window that gets a lot of sunlight, try using a blackout shade when you're not in the room to keep the sun from heating it up. You can also layer drapes over shades to keep your room even cooler.
Cover your windows
In order to keep your room from getting too hot while still letting some light in, cover your windows with reflective film. It's an inexpensive project you can complete yourself, and makes all the difference when paired with the proper window treatments. Once you apply the film, it can be easily removed with no damage to the window.
Seal leaks
Plugging up gaps in and around your windows and doors is particularly helpful when it's chilly out, but it is also advantageous when trying to beat the heat indoors. You can seal leaks in your windows by identifying all of the areas that are letting hot air indoors and applying caulk or foam weather stripping to the leaks. Do not apply the adhesives to parts of the casing that facilitate traction, however, as this could interfere with proper opening and closing.
