We learned from Debbie (of Debbie and Olivier's One Window House) that to really cut down on heat indoors, you have to block the sun before it gets through the windows and into the house. Even if you have reflective or solar shades, if they're on the inside of the window, there is still heat being trapped inside (this is why awnings can be a big help). These shades when hung on the outside of a window could really help things stay cool inside.
Coolaroo Window Shades
In addition to keeping things cool inside, these would also be a great way to have privacy outdoors. Gregory had a great post about outdoor tension rods and drapery for his al fresco dining plans and we think these roll up shades would be great to help section off a portion of the patio or to close in a porch that get's too much sun to sit in comfortably. Coolaroo Window Shades are made of all-weather knit fabric and block up to 90% of the sun's UV rays but will still let light and air pass through. The fabric will resist mold, mildew and rot so it's made for the outdoors.
Comments (3)
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These type of shades are everywhere in my neighborhood!
view rvalexa's profile
Solar shades mounted inside the window does do an amazing job of reducing the heat inside a home - I've been in installations and have felt the interior temperature drop 10-15 degrees.
The only problem with exterior shades is that owners often don't want to roll them up in rainy or windy weather - by leaving them down at these times, the moisture will cause mildew and wind will damage the shades.
view bepsf's profile
We made our own solar shades with the outdoor garden fabric (tan) that comes in a big roll from Home Depot--attached it to wood strips above and below, and install it with hooks, two above, one below to stop the wind taking it off. We roll them up during the winter and keep them on all sizzling summer long.
view jen_g's profile