Not Just Window Dressing: A Homeowner’s Option For Becoming More Energy Efficient

May 14, 2008

A growing number of consumers are opting for products that save energy to cut household costs. In many of those cases, consumers are choosing to purchase products that were manufactured using recycled materials or renewable resources.

Running Hot And Cold

The Department of Energy reports that heating and cooling accounts for nearly 56 percent of the energy use in a typical U.S. home, making it the largest energy expense in most households. One of the simplest ways to reduce your heating and cooling needs and costs is by using window treatments.

Window treatments have a number of insulating properties, which lead to reduced energy use in the home and lower energy bills. But it’s important to consider all the available options, as some treatments are better at insulating than others are:

• During the summer, drawn window treatments prevent sunlight from warming cooled indoor air by blocking sunlight during afternoon hours.

• Conversely, during the winter, drawn or lowered window treatments prevent warmed indoor air from chilling against cold window glass.

Shop At Home

Budget Blinds has window treatments for a variety of consumers, including those who want environmentally friendly options. And in a climate where busy homeowners have less and less time to shop, the company offers a convenient shopping experience right in the comfort of your home. Instead of shopping online or measuring, fitting and making repeated trips to the home store, you can have it all taken care of by trained professionals–the showroom comes to you while you go about your business.

The company offers a wide variety of products made from recycled or renewable resources, including window treatments made from woven woods, cotton, silk or composite wood, and beautiful area rugs made from wool, sisal, mountain grass, sea grass and reclaimed Nylon 6. A number of Budget Blinds’ products have been certified by the GREENGUARD Environmental Institute and Green Built Home.

Budget Blinds offers free, personalized in-home consultations, professional measuring and installation, and a rich selection of quality window treatments, including shutters, blinds, draperies, shades, awnings and window film. For more information, visit www.budgetblinds.com or call (800) 519-6298.

Window treatments are an attractive way to reduce a home’s energy consumption.
 

Posted in Helpful Hints, Real Estate