Spring has finally sprung, and our homes in Barnsley and South Yorkshire are starting to feel the benefits of brighter, sunnier days – especially for those of us with south-facing windows.
South-facing windows are a great addition to any home, but anyone with them can vouch for how quickly they can warm a room. As Spring gives way to Summer, the once inviting, cosy sunshine can quickly become overpowering, inviting excess heat, harsh glare, and even causing furniture to fade quickly, diminishing in quality.
If you’re struggling to keep your room cool during the Spring and Summer months, the right window accessories can make a world of difference. Our experts at Express Blinds and Curtains have compiled their top recommendations for blinds and curtains to keep your room cooler during the warmer months.
Challenges with South-Facing Windows
Before we share the best window adornments, let’s explore why we must take extra care of your south-facing window. As you likely know already, south-facing windows are exposed to the sun for most of the day, leading to:
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- Excess heat: South-facing windows receive the most heat throughout the day. Without window coverings, it can get excessively warm.
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- UV damage: prolonged exposure to UV rays can cause irreversible damage, for example, fading furniture, flooring, artwork, and fabrics.
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- Glare: It can be difficult to focus when dealing with glare. Direct sunlight causes glare, making it difficult to watch TV, use your devices, work on a computer, and even relax.
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- Disruption: The bright light and sustained heat can interrupt sleep cycles, not to mention the intense heat fluctuations.
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- Increased costs: The immense heat can significantly increase cooling costs, increasing the need for consistent use of air conditioning.
With these challenges in mind, here are the top window treatments for homes in South Yorkshire and even further with south-facing windows.
Vision Blinds
Vision blinds, also known as day and night blinds, are made with alternating patterns of sheer and opaque fabric, which allows you to adjust how much light enters your room. These are ideal for south-facing windows as they block direct sunlight without making your room too dark.
Vision blinds maximise natural light whilst reducing glare and, thanks to their adaptable nature, help regulate indoor temperatures. In addition, they can alleviate allergies caused by dust and allergens that accumulate in thicker curtains, which are harder to clean
Venetian Blinds
Venetian blinds create a classic look that allows you to control the amount of sunlight entering your space. They can be adjusted to block direct sunlight whilst still allowing light to reflect into your room.
Venetian blinds are available in real or faux wood options; however, faux wood blinds are generally better due to their notable resistance to heat, moisture, and fading. On top of this, it’s important to note that light coloured blinds (like white) are recommended for south-facing windows as light will reflect better off them.
Perfect Fit Blinds
Perfect fit blinds sit perfectly within the frame of your window or door, meaning they cover the
glass more tightly than standard blinds. Their snug, frame-hugging design reduces gaps for light to enter, minimising intense sun glare and reducing solar heat gain.
Perfect fit blinds are especially popular in conservatories in South Yorkshire, as they move fluidly with windows and doors.
Roller Blinds
Roller blinds are a cheap and effective way to control lighting. They also give great levels of privacy whilst allowing enough light to enter the room. On top of this, they are versatile in that they can be made blackout and when fully closed, provide an effective barrier against heat whilst still providing a sleek and minimal look in your space.
Sheer Curtains
The best thing about blinds and curtains is the wide range of options available. You aren’t simply limited to one window adornment; why not layer up? For example, a sheer curtain underneath a pencil pleat or eyelet curtain can provide just the right amount of privacy without compromising on sunlight.
Our showroom in Barnsley offers plenty of inspiration if you are stuck on how to adorn your south-facing windows in South Yorkshire and beyond. It’s free to visit and open 9am to 5pm from Monday to Friday, and on Saturday from 10am to 3pm.
Have you Thought About Window Films?
Here at Express Blinds and Curtains, we understand how damaging sun damage can be, which is why we offer a range of attractive window films that protect your privacy and furnishings without blocking out direct sunlight. From solar reflective film to reduce heat in a room, to safety film that prevents glass from shattering, to even films with stained glass effects, we offer an array of films to suit your needs.
How Will You Adorn Your South-Facing Windows?
Here at Express Blinds and Curtains, we make outstanding made-to-measure window dressings to adorn your windows. We understand the importance of choosing wisely, as just because one curtain suits one window perfectly, it doesn’t mean it will suit all the others the same way!
Get in touch with our team at Express Blinds and Curtains to discuss the best blinds and curtains for your space. Reach us here, or call us on 01226 756 111 today!
