The significance of an effective sliding glass window treatment cannot be overstated, whether you’re aiming for a sleek, contemporary look or seeking a more functional alternative to basic curtains. In terms of functionality, a well-chosen window treatment is a valuable strategy to help reduce household energy expenses. The U.S. Department of Energy notes that “about 30% of a home’s heating energy is lost through windows,” but energy-efficient window treatments can mitigate this loss. They also reduce daytime glare from natural light, shield your home from cold drafts, and, when paired with window films that enhance privacy, protect your home from curious onlookers.
For those pursuing a modern, tidy appearance, vertical cellular shades with defined lines and angles are ideal for sliding glass doors. These shades come in a wide array of colors and materials, including vinyl, aluminum, and fabric, allowing you to tailor them to your personal taste. The vertical slats effectively block light or permit just the right amount of filtered light into your space. Additionally, they can be motorized for remote control operation, eliminating challenges with height or stubborn blinds. However, the advantages of vertical cellular shades extend beyond aesthetics, offering a perfect blend of modern style and practicality.
Vertical Cellular Shades Reduce Energy Costs
Vertical cellular shades for sliding doors are generally crafted from insulated materials. Unlike standard vertical blinds with exposed slats, these shades are designed without gaps, folding inwards like an accordion when opened. This design, aside from being a top choice for privacy in street-facing rooms, ranks highly among energy-saving window treatments, reducing heat loss by at least 40% during fall and winter, and minimizing heat from natural light by 60% in late spring and summer.
You can adjust your cellular shades based on daily temperature variations, opening them when it suits and closing them when necessary. Interestingly, only 25% of households adjust their window coverings throughout the day, meaning 75% potentially waste energy. How much energy savings can be realized? Vertical cellular shades can reduce energy costs by 10% in cooler months and up to 20% in warmer months.
Vertical Cellular Shades Enhance Privacy
Research by the Alarm Industry Research & Educational Foundation reveals that 67.6% of burglaries occur in low-traffic areas. Given that most sliding glass doors are located at the back of homes, they are likely in these low-traffic zones. Surprisingly, over 32% of burglaries happen between 12 p.m. and 4 p.m., during daylight hours. The most common methods of entry include breaking windows and forcing open back doors, underscoring the need for privacy and limiting visibility into your home.
With vertical shades, there’s no need to worry about gaps that might enable a stranger to see inside your home. Additionally, with the option for motorization that integrates with home automation systems, you can close your blinds even when you’re away. Just ensure the material of your vertical cellular shades remains opaque at night, as some materials are less effective when it’s dark outside and your indoor lights are on.
