The Benefits of Made to Measure Curtains & Blinds
As has recently been announced average energy bills have increased from £1971 a year to a astonishing £3549 from October, with costs predicted to rise even further company early 2023.
Therefore, ensuring value for money is at the top of the agenda for everyone. By making smart decisions now, we can all reduce our heating bills and as a consequence, reduce our carbon footprint. Depending on the material of your current blinds and curtains, the average life span for them is approximately 10 years and giving them an update, will not only breathe life into your interior but can reduce your heating costs. Our expert staff are on hand to make sure your curtains or blinds fit perfectly and are tailored to your windows, which ensures heat doesn’t escape. In addition to the perfect fit, choosing the right material and lining can have a significant affect on reducing costs.
Blinds or Curtains for Winter Insulation
Extensive research has been conducted on whether to opt for curtains or blinds. Studies have indicated that compared to a standard, double-glazed window, adding a blind reduced the heat loss through the window. Curtains also provide approximately 2.5% in energy saving when closed at night and the heating is on. To further maximise energy saving, draw your blinds and curtains at dusk as this can reduce heat loss by 13-14% for blinds and 15-17% for curtains. Therefore, whether you want to choose curtains or blinds, the benefits of both, coupled with choosing the right time to close them, will have a positive impact on the amount of heat staying in your home, thus enabling for less heating to be used. Why not take a look at our Made to Measure curtains and blinds and get ready for winter?
Interlined Curtains and Blinds
Interlined curtains and blinds are not only for interior decoration, they also provide essential privacy and warmth in your home. The main benefit of interlining is the fact that it traps the air between the layers of fabric and therefore minimises heat loss. This would be a useful option for a room that has a draught or single glazed windows. Adding an interlining is crucial for minimising heating costs and in addition, also give curtains structure, creating an elegant drape and fuller finish.
Keep in mind that interlined curtains and blinds will be considerably heavier and so a strong enough pole or track will need to be fitted.
Use Thermal Lining
Another great way to reduce heat loss is by using energy efficient, thermal lining for your blinds and curtains. Thermal Lining prevents the air from entering or leaving the room and therefore reduces the amount of heating being used. The heat retention properties in thermal lining also help regulate the temperature by keeping the room cooler in the summer and insulates during the winter.
Furthermore, thermal lining will also help block sunlight exposure coming through the window that may affect the curtain fabric and furniture within the room. Adding a thermal lining will increase the lifespan of the curtains and has benefits you can reap all year round.
Blackout Lining
In addition to thermal lining, blackout lining is another fantastic way to be energy efficient with your curtains and blinds. Contrary to its name, blackout lining comes in neutral shades and gets its title from the fact it blocks all light from your windows. This lining also has thermal qualities, so it will help reduce heat loss from your room and minimise the amount of cold air entering. Blackout lining is not only beneficial in the colder months but is also a great option for the summer as it protects your room from the sun’s rays.
Choosing the right fabric for you
With so many materials to choose from, picking the fabric for your curtains and blinds can be tricky. There are a few simple ways you can further bring down costs in your home by choosing the right fabric. Thick materials such as velvet and wool are a great way to create a barrier between your window and room, thus reducing heat loss.
Best positioning
Ensuring you get the very best efficiency from your curtains once hung is integral and will aid in keeping bills down. In your living room, opt for cotton linings and if your radiator is below the window, ensure your curtains are tucked behind. This will keep the heat from escaping behind the curtains and prevent draughts escaping from any gaps at the bottom. For roller blinds in your kitchen and bathrooms, stop heat being wasted by escaping from gaps and letting draughts in by resting the bottom of the blind on the windowsill. For bedrooms, if your radiator is below your window, like with your living room, gently tuck your curtains behind; alternatively, if your radiator is not below, make sure your curtains drape between 15-25cm below the windowsill. By draping your curtains below, this will make sure heat doesn’t escape from any gaps and any pockets of cold air coming through will get trapped.
