How Can I Keep My House Cooler in the Summer?
A local specialist shares expert tips on blocking seasonal heat using custom window treatments.
As summer temperatures climb in Westfield, homeowners face the familiar challenge of keeping indoor living spaces comfortable without sending utility bills through the roof. While cranking up the air conditioning is the immediate reaction, a significant portion of indoor heat actually enters right through the windows.
According to the U.S. Department of Energy, about 76% of the sunlight that falls on standard double-pane windows enters the home to become heat. Fortunately, strategic management of home window treatments can dramatically lower indoor temperatures.
Local window treatment specialist Jessica Cook, owner of Made in the Shade Golden Triangle NJ based in Westfield, shares professional advice on managing solar heat gain and selecting the right solutions to keep homes cool.
Strategic Adjustments to Make Right Away
Managing the sun’s shifting path throughout the day is a highly effective, cost-free way to reduce indoor thermal energy:
Track the Sun by Direction:
East and West Windows: Lower treatments completely on eastern exposures in the morning and western exposures in the afternoon. Because the sun is low on the horizon during these times, the rays hit the glass directly, causing rapid heat spikes.
South Windows: Keep shades drawn consistently through midday. South-facing glass endures the most prolonged, intense solar exposure of the day, making steady shading critical.
North Windows: Keep light-filtering options lowered to diffuse ambient glare and block conductive heat transferring through hot window glass.
Tilt the Slats Upward: For homes with traditional horizontal blinds, tilt the slats all the way upward. This directs incoming heat toward the ceiling rather than into the center of the living area, keeping the active living zone noticeably cooler.
Harness Smart Cooling Schedule: If utilizing advanced motorized shades, program them to drop automatically according to the sun’s daily path, establishing a proactive barrier before interior spaces have the chance to warm up.
The Most Effective Cooling Window Treatments
For homeowners looking to invest in permanent heat relief, certain materials are specifically engineered to block thermal energy.
Cellular Shades (Honeycomb Shades): These are the gold standard for temperature control. Their unique accordion design creates built-in air pockets that act as a powerful barrier, trapping heat at the window pane and preventing it from entering the room.
Solar Shades: Ideal for living rooms and sunrooms, solar rollers are woven from high-performance materials designed to filter intense UV rays and solar heat while completely preserving the outdoor view.
Blackout Draperies: Adding custom draperies with a specialized thermal or blackout lining over existing blinds creates an extra layer of defense, entirely sealing out oppressive afternoon sunlight.
Motorized Outdoor Patio Shades: Stopping the sun before it hits the glass is highly effective. Motorized exterior solar shades protect patios and decks, dramatically reducing the heat load on adjacent interior windows.
Expert Guidance for Westfield Homeowners
“Every home handles light and heat differently based on its orientation and architectural design,” explains Jessica. “By combining smart daily habits like scheduling motorized shades to drop automatically during peak afternoon heat with engineered fabrics, homeowners can experience a profound difference in both daily comfort and monthly energy consumption.”
To help neighbors optimize their properties for summer comfort, the company provides complimentary onsite consultations and precision measuring. Homeowners can explore the full product line or schedule a private, shop-at-home appointment by visiting mitsgoldentriangle.com.
About Made in the Shade Golden Triangle NJ
Made in the Shade Golden Triangle NJ is the premier window treatment specialist serving Westfield and surrounding towns in Northern New Jersey. Known for technical expertise and premium product offerings, the company provides custom blinds, shades, shutters, draperies, and motorized exterior shades. By combining personalized design consultations with precise measurements and professional installation, they deliver seamless solutions for sophisticated residential and commercial spaces. For more information, visit custom window treatments in Westfield, NJ.