If you look at the linings of your curtains, window coverings can do more than add a decorative touch to your home. An insular lining, for example, can help regulate the temperature and reduce outside noises. Double-lined curtains and heavy weaves can help keep out light.
Blackout curtains
Thermal blackout curtains can be made from densely woven, tightly woven or layered fabrics such as velvet, felt, or suede. A blackout liner can also be added to regular curtains to achieve the same effect. Blackout curtains are used to block direct sunlight from entering the home. However, their primary purpose is to prevent light from entering the home. Because of the synthetic linings, blackout curtains should not be ironed, bleached, or put in the washer. Spot cleaning is best done with a damp cloth. Follow the instructions on the label.
Thermal curtains
Because glass is a poor insulation, windows are the most common source of heat loss in homes. The seal between the frame and window can also degrade over time. Thermal curtains are used to block unwanted light from entering the home, but they also act as insulation. Thermal curtains can be double- or triple-layered and made of heavy fabric. They have a thick backing with insulate material, often a polyester film vapor barrier, and are usually double- or three-layered. To protect from UV damage, thermal curtains are generally made of 100 percent cotton, wool, or polyester. They can be coated on the window side by acrylic foam or an aluminum layer. The thick batting acts as a sound barrier and may reduce some noises from busy roads or high-traffic areas. The care instructions for your thermal curtains are listed on the label. They should be washed thoroughly with mild detergent and warm water. You can also wash them in the washer on the gentle cycle once a year. Hang them to dry, and iron lightly if necessary. These curtains can be kept clean throughout the year by regular vacuuming/dusting and spot treatment with a damp cloth.
Sustainability
You can save energy by using blackout curtains or thermal curtains in your home. Because the curtains can reflect heat and reduce heat loss in the summer, they can help you save money on heating and cooling. Window treatments won’t eliminate drafts from your home but they can help with energy conservation. There are many factors that go into choosing the best curtains for your home. Make sure to carefully evaluate your needs and research your options. While specialized curtains won’t be able to reduce your carbon footprint or decrease your expenditures, they can help you get started on your journey towards a more sustainable home.
Deciding which home style suits you best
The type of problem you have will determine the curtain that is best suited for your home. Blackout curtains work best if the home is already well insulated. If natural light is the problem, you can choose thermal curtains. Both curtains can reduce these issues, but they don’t have to be the only ones. You can easily find blackout and thermal curtains at major retailers in a variety of colors. You can also make your own curtains with bold and graphic fabrics, provided you pay attention the weave as well as the insulation.
