As more people become aware of the impact they make on landfills and the environment, more customers are seeking out eco-friendly products than ever before. There are entire brands and manufacturers dedicated to creating products that are as sustainable as possible. Not only do they seek to reduce the number of items ending up in landfills, but they are choosing materials made from eco-friendly sources.
Custom window treatment installations are perfect for homeowners who are looking to make their household more environmentally conscious. In fact, more and more people are choosing to customize their blinds and shades so that they can choose a style that fits their budget and lifestyle. Keep reading to learn more about how these custom window treatments can be designed to have a better impact on the environment.
Benefits of an Eco-Friendly Custom Window Treatment
Some window treatment products are more sustainable than others. However, they may vary by the ways in which they promote sustainability. There are products that are made from eco-friendly materials, while others might make an impact on energy consumption. The following are just a few of the ways that homeowners can benefit from an eco-friendly customer window treatment:
- Increase Insulation: Homeowners can select window treatments that insulate the house better in the winter or summer months. This can reduce the amount of energy used to operate the HVAC system, and it can save money on energy bills. It’s a win-win!
- Utilize Natural Light: Window treatments give homeowners more control over the amount of light that enters the home. Therefore, customers can also reduce their energy bills by taking advantage of natural light rather than artificial.
- Long-Lasting: Eco-friendly window coverings are made to last so that homeowners can reduce their waste. They are also much easier to maintain.
- Recyclable: Many of the best eco-friendly products can be recycled so that they can stay out of landfills after they have served their purpose.
According to the U.S. Department of Energy, about 30% of a home’s heating energy is lost through windows. The right coverings can cut into those numbers significantly.
Top Four Eco-Friendly Window Treatment Options
While there are plenty of window treatment options on the market, there are at least four that promote sustainability in different ways. The following are just a few of the window covering styles that are best for sustainability.
Bamboo Shades
Customers love that bamboo shades aren’t made from any synthetic materials. They are manufactured using natural bamboo and jute that are then woven together. The result is a beautiful style and texture that adds plenty of earthy personality to a home. Not to mention, they are great for regulating the amount of natural light in a home, and they can easily be recycled when homeowners are finished with them.
It’s important to note that they will last for a long time if homeowners maintain them properly. They must make sure that they are not exposed to excess humidity and moisture, as that can damage the natural material.
Bamboo shades offer a beautiful, natural texture while keeping synthetic materials out of the picture.
Pro Tip
Unlike hardwood trees that take decades to mature, bamboo can be harvested in just three to five years, making it one of the most renewable materials used in window treatments.
Roman Shades
The sun’s rays not only heat up a home, but they can also impact the appearance of wood, furniture, art, and more. For homes that are exposed to a lot of UV rays, Roman shades are a great option. They can filter out the light or be completely blacked out. Not only does this protect the interior from UV light, but it also keeps the home cooler in the summer months. It’s also perfect for insulating in the winter so that homeowners can save on energy bills year-round.
Wondering about the difference between light filtering and room darkening options? Check out our guide on light filtering vs. room darkening blinds.
Roman shades combine classic elegance with serious UV protection and insulation.
Roller Shades
For many people, roller shades are the best choice because they are cordless and easy to use, but they also have many eco-friendly qualities. They can come in blackout versions or offer energy-efficient light filtering. They are also perfect for blocking out 99% of the sun’s most harmful UV rays.
Want to know more about their efficiency? We break it down in our post: are roller shades energy efficient?
Cellular Shades
Some homeowners want to enjoy the best of both worlds in terms of light and insulation. Cellular shades allow for just that. Not only do they help to block out some light, but they also have significant insulating properties. This can make the home more comfortable and reduce a homeowner’s impact on energy consumption. To top it off, these styles are sleek and classic, so they won’t go out of style in a year or two.
Cellular shades (sometimes called honeycomb shades) trap air in their pockets, creating a buffer between the glass and your living space. Learn more in our post on energy-efficient blinds and shades.
| Feature | Bamboo Shades | Roman Shades | Roller Shades | Cellular Shades |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Natural Materials | ✓ | Varies | Varies | Varies |
| UV Protection | Moderate | High | Up to 99% | Moderate |
| Insulation | Low | High | Moderate | Highest |
| Recyclable | ✓ | Varies | Varies | Varies |
Ready to Go Green with Your Window Treatments?
Our designers can help you find eco-friendly options that fit your home and budget.
Find out More About Sustainable Custom Window Treatment Options
Want to know more about how the type of custom window treatment can impact a home’s environmental footprint? Customers should reach out to BlindQuest right away. Their talented designers are ready to provide more information on how to choose eco-friendly products.
Homeowners should call to schedule an in-home design consultation or to set up an appointment in the showroom. They can also take a moment to submit their project details through the online contact form.
The EPA recommends choosing durable, long-lasting goods to keep material out of landfills, which is exactly what quality custom window treatments deliver. Our team at BlindQuest has been helping homeowners across Troy, IL and the Edwardsville area since 2002.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the most energy-efficient window treatment?
Cellular (honeycomb) shades are widely considered the most energy-efficient option. Their pocket design traps air, providing insulation that can reduce both heating and cooling costs.
Are bamboo shades better for the environment than fabric shades?
Bamboo can be harvested in three to five years, giving it a clear edge over synthetic fabrics. Bamboo shades are also biodegradable and recyclable. Fabric shades made from organic or recycled materials can be a solid choice too.
Can window treatments really lower my energy bills?
Yes. The U.S. Department of Energy reports that about 30% of heating energy is lost through windows. Insulating shades, blackout treatments, and reflective roller shades help regulate indoor temperatures, reducing how hard your HVAC works.
Does BlindQuest offer eco-friendly window treatment options?
Absolutely. As a Hunter Douglas dealer serving Troy, IL and the Metro East since 2002, BlindQuest carries cellular shades, bamboo shades, Roman shades, and energy-efficient roller shades. Reach out to schedule a free consultation.
