Want to restrict the amount of light pouring through your windows? There are various different ways to dress and modify your windows in order to reduce light. Below are five different forms of sunlight control for windows.
Curtains
Curtains are the most basic way of blocking out light. Different types of curtains provide different levels of light control. At one end of the scale, you have blackout curtains which are able to block out all external light (a popular option for bedrooms). At the other end of the scale are voile curtains – these allow light to pass through while maintaining privacy. Curtains have other advantages such as being easy to clean and maintain. Thick winter curtains can also be used to provide insulation. It’s possible to use a combination of multiple curtains for different purposes such as voile curtains for privacy combined with blackout curtains for blocking out light.
Blinds
Blinds can offer more precise light control than curtains. They don’t take up quite as much space. However, they can be a little more fiddly to clean. Unlike curtains which can provide insulation, blinds are better for maintaining ventilation as they still allow air to pass around the sides. There are various different styles of blinds to consider – horizontal slats are most common, however, some people may prefer vertical slats. We really like straight drop outdoor blinds Sydney. Roller blinds are another option, which consists of a single fabric rolled down from above (blackout roller blinds are a popular option for bedrooms). It’s possible to combine blinds and curtains.
Internal shutters
Shutters provide similar light control to blinds. Unlike blinds that hang from the top of the window, internal shutters are fixed to the inside frame of the window. Internal shutters can provide added insulation and security. Like blinds, they can be slightly fiddly to clean. Access to your window and window sill may also be restricted, although it depends on the size of the slats. Internal shutters typically consist of horizontal slats, but some people may prefer vertical slats.
External shutters
External shutters are fitted to the outside of the window. On top of offering all the properties of internal shutters, external shutters can be used to protect your windows from damage, either from vandals or storms. An advantage of external shutters is that you can combine them with internal options like curtains and blinds for extra light control or you can keep the inside of your windows bare and fully utilize the window sill. External shutters can come in a variety of styles including remote control slats, roll-down shutters and batten shutters.
Tinting
It’s possible to have windows tinted in order to improve privacy and improve light control. Tinting can also help to reduce UV light – the light is responsible for sunburn and furniture damage. Unlike other measures, this is very much a permanent improvement. Window tinting is more common on commercial buildings, although can be found on many residential glass front doors. On top of tinting, stained glass can be used to help reduce light in a more decorative and traditional way.
