Best Window Coverings for Blocking Heat

[Annahmed]

Hey everyone, looking for effective options to install over windows to reduce heat and prevent sunlight from warming up the house during summer. Ideally, something that doesn’t make the interior too dark. Any recommendations?

[Downaski]

Hey! There are a few great options to keep the heat out without making your place too dark. You could try solar shades or window films, they block a lot of heat while still letting in natural light. If you want something outside the window, awnings or exterior solar screens work really well too. Even light-colored curtains or sheer shades inside can help reflect heat without making things feel too gloomy.

Do you get a lot of direct sun, or is it more of an all-day warmth issue?

[DarkKnight]

You can add a pergola or a trellis with some climbing plants to block the sun naturally while still letting in light, it looks nice and works great for cooling things down. Another option is spectrally selective window films, which cut down heat without making your place too dark. If you want something adjustable, exterior louvers or solar screens could do the trick.

It really depends on how much sun you’re getting and whether you’re looking for a quick fix or something more permanent.

[Alpha]

Hi!

I have some ideas that might help with your window heat issue! Yes, solar shades are good options. You might also want to consider exterior rolling shutters that can be adjusted throughout the day based on the sun's position. Another option I don't see mentioned yet is low-E window replacements if you're planning renovations anyway, they're designed specifically to reflect heat while maintaining visibility. For a budget-friendly DIY approach, you could try reflective window inserts that pop in during summer months and store away in winter. Ceiling fans also complement any window treatment by improving air circulation and creating a cooling effect indoors.

[Annahmed]

These are all great suggestions, thanks! I really like the idea of exterior solar screens and spectrally selective films, how well do they hold up over time? Do they need a lot of maintenance? Also, the trellis and climbing plants idea sounds really nice! Any recommendations for plants that grow fast and provide good shade without blocking too much light?

[DarkKnight]

Exterior solar screens are pretty low-maintenance and can last over 10 years. Just give them a rinse now and then to keep them clean. Spectrally selective window films are also a solid choice. They stick around for 10 to 15 years without much fuss, as long as you clean them gently and avoid ammonia-based cleaners.

For the trellis and climbing plants, that’s an awesome choice! If you want something that grows fast and gives you shade without making your space too dark, there are some great options. Star jasmine smells amazing, stays green all year, and isn’t too dense. Clematis comes in different colors and lets in a nice amount of light. Wisteria looks beautiful but can get a bit wild if you don’t trim it. Trumpet vine grows fast and attracts hummingbirds. Passionflower has an exotic look and gives dappled shade without blocking too much light.

[Annahmed]

How soon do you think the climbing plants would grow enough to provide shade?

[DarkKnight]

That depends on the plant! Fast-growing climbers like trumpet vine or passionflower can start providing noticeable shade within a year, especially if they have good support and regular watering. Star jasmine and clematis may take a couple of years to fully cover a trellis, but they’re worth the wait for their flowers and greenery. If you’re looking for quicker coverage, you could start with a mix of fast and moderate growers to get shade sooner while allowing the slower ones to establish.

[Annahmed]

Ah, that’s too much time! Definitely a great long-term option, but I was hoping for something more instant.

[DarkKnight]

If you’re looking for an option that provides instant results without requiring major modifications, solar screens could be a great fit.

[Annahmed]

Amazing! Thank you all for the suggestions!