There are so many things to love about Summer. More Vitamin D, days out with family and memories that last a lifetime. But one of the downsides to this bright and wonderful time is the challenge of controlling excessive heat and light in our homes. Yes, we want to spend as much as time outside, enjoying everything that UK Summer has to offer. But, it’s just as important that we have chilled and relaxing spaces in our homes to cool down. Finding the perfect summer window blind takes a bit of expert knowledge and planning but there are so many options available on the market now, we’re here to help you find the right one.
What issues does Summer present??
Let’s take a look at some of the challenges presented to us during Summer when it comes to our homes.
- Longer days
During the warmest days of the year, we can benefit from up to 16 hours of sunshine on a good Summer day. And while this means we have more time to enjoy each activity, it also means that the amount of heat available to flood our homes also increases. Additionally, if you’re someone who appreciates good sleep, brighter mornings can disrupt your slumber.
- Warmer evenings
Everyone loves a glass of wine in the warm evening sun. But, when considering heat in the home, these warmer hours make it harder to cool down your rooms. During the Winter, cool evenings allow the internal temperature to drop, making it a relaxing place to be. More heat can be challenging for all members of the family – specifically when it still lingers just before bedtime.
- Lots of sunshine
It doesn’t take an expert to know that sunshine carries with it a significant degree of heat. And when the sun’s rays make their way into your home, this is when you find yourself stepping into heat boxes. Abundant sunshine is great when you’re spending hours at the beach or lounging in the pool. But, if you’re trying to get a moment of respite from the heat, it can present significant issues.
What does a Summer window blind need to offer?
- Light control
Spending all day in the sun and excessive light allows our body to produce Vitamin D – which is good for health and wellbeing. However, there comes a time – specifically before bedtime or periods of calm – that we need dimmer light in order to start producing hormones such as melatonin. To do this, a summer window blind needs to help us control light at night. Equally, a window dressing can be used effectively to control the conditions inside our home. By keeping them rolled down during the sunniest periods of a day can reduce the build-up of heat and help maintain a relaxing bubble for when it’s needed.
- Temperature control
Heat is the biggest challenge when it comes to Summer weather. Here in the UK, we aren’t used to continuous extreme heat and so, when these days do come, it can be a challenge for us to maintain comfortable homes. The right window blinds will help you to do this, using a range of specialist fabrics such as solar reflective and thermal.
- Style
Summer is a time for BBQs, garden parties and spending time with the ones you love most. So you want to make sure that any additions to your home help to keep it as stylish and enjoyable to be in as possible. The range of window blinds on offer is so vast, there’s no reason to compromise.
What Summer window blind options do I have?
So, now we know what to look for in our summer window blinds, let’s look at some of the options available on the market.
Venetian Blinds
Made up of numerous vertical aluminium slats, Venetian Blinds are highly effective when it comes to summer light control. These slats can be rotated and adjusted to allow through the exact amount of light needed. By angling them up towards the ceiling or down towards the floor, you’ll minimise the distracting glare that is produced through direct sunlight. This makes rooms like kitchens or dining rooms more usable throughout the day.
Alongside this, the slats have a domed design that allows them to fit flush against each other when closed. You’ll be able to effectively block out large amounts of light during the day before opening them up and enjoying a gentle warmth in the evening. Options such as the Aluminium Perforated have small holes crafted into the slats that allow even more muted light into a room when shut. And there is also an abundance of colours to choose from, including rich Coral through to vibrant Glow yellow.
Blackout Blinds
If you’re looking to effectively block out as much light as possible, blackout blinds are perfect for summer. They are made using numerous layers, including a light-blocking central layer. This prevents the sun’s rays from getting through and creates a dark, relaxing environment. Most blackout blinds will also reduce the amount of heat which is transferred through your windows by as much as 20%, meaning you won’t need to use a fan as much too. Fall for styles such as the Banlight Duo FR Fresh Apple or the Banlight Duo FR Kingfisher – both of which are finished in a bright and Summer-appropriate colour to suit any space.
Thermal Blinds
Looking specifically at temperature, thermal window blinds have been specifically designed to help manage excessive heat. They are made up of numerous layers, some of which are there to reflect excessive light away from a window. Keep them rolled down or twisted closed during the hottest times of the day. This will help to minimise the amount of heat that is able to build up in your homes. These blinds are also ideal during Winter, locking in air and creating good levels of insulation. This reduces your strain in the heating system in your home and has the potential to reduce energy costs too.
Solar Reflective
Another specialist fabric used to create practical summer window blinds is solar reflective. These have a pearlescent backing which intelligently reflects both heat and light away from a room. When pulled down, these solar reflective window blinds are some of the most effective at reducing heat and light in a room. As with the other options mentioned above, they come in an abundance of different colours, from Japonica Asc Silk through to Atlantex Asc Cherry.
Finding the perfect Summer window blind allows you to make the most of your home, both indoors and out. It means you won’t have to restrict access or spend excessively on fans and air conditioning. By considering the main challenges your home faces during the warmer months, you’ll be able to establish the right solution for your needs.
If you would like any help choosing the perfect summer window blind or would like more information about a specific option in our online store, get in contact today.