It’s not hard to see why we are drawn to large, expansive windows. They can transform a home, bringing in natural light and offering stunning views. However, if you’re in a property blessed with large glazing you’ll know that they also present a significant challenge when it comes to temperature regulation and energy efficiency.Â
According to the Energy Saving Trust, up to 40% of a home’s heat can be lost through windows, particularly with large or poor-quality glazing.Â
So how do you keep your gorgeous aesthetic whilst bringing down those energy bills? Never fear, we’re here to break it down.
What exactly is the energy challenge of large windows?
Modern architecture increasingly favours expansive windows and glass facades. While visually impressive, large windows can create serious energy efficiency issues for a few reasons:
- In winter, heat escapes more readily through glass than through insulated walls
- According to the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero, poorly insulated windows can increase heating bills by up to 25% – certainly not an amount to be sniffed at
Even when we factor in modern double glazing, windows remain one of the main sources of heat loss in UK homes. This is where bespoke, custom made blinds can make a remarkable difference.
How can custom-made blinds improve energy efficiency?
Unlike off-the-shelf solutions, custom made blinds are designed to fit your windows perfectly, eliminating excessive gaps that allow air to circulate and ambient temperature to escape. So, how is that relevant to your energy efficiency? In several ways:
1. The perfect fit creates maximum insulation
Standard blinds often leave large gaps at the edges where air can freely pass. Custom made blinds are measured and manufactured to fit your window frames to the milimetre, creating a more effective thermal barrier. Research by the British Blind and Shutter Association (BBSA) found that properly fitted blinds can reduce heat loss through windows by up to 33%.
2. Get smart with energy-saving materials
Custom made blinds allow you to select materials specifically for their insulating properties (without sacrificing timeless style):
- Cellular (honeycomb) blinds: Feature air-trapping pockets that create an insulating layer
- Thermal roller blinds: Constructed with special backing that reflects heat back into rooms during winter
- Pinoleum blinds: Can be crafted with solar backing which is particularly useful for climate control in conservatories or orangeries
3. Adapt to the seasons with custom-made blinds
Custom made blinds can be strategically deployed throughout the year to maximise energy efficiency:
- Winter strategy: Keep blinds open during sunny days to allow solar heat gain, then close them at dusk to trap heat inside
- Summer strategy: Close blinds during peak sunshine hours to block solar heat gain
Custom made blinds vs. Standard blinds: How do they stack up?
When comparing energy performance, custom made blinds consistently outperform standard options. This quick comparison chart is very telling:
How do custom-made blinds benefit me financially?
At this point you’re surely thinking ‘okay, but how does this translate to saving me money?’. While custom made blinds represent a higher initial investment than standard options, the energy savings over time can be substantial:
- A typical UK household might save 10-15% on heating bills with proper window treatments
- For a home spending £1,200 annually on heating, this represents £120-£180 in savings per year!
- According to the Energy Saving Trust, the average payback period for energy-efficient window treatments is 3-5 years, so the wait to save is not long at all
Smart blind integration for maximum efficiency
With our homes becoming smarter by the day, it only makes sense that operating your blinds follows suit. Modern custom-made blinds can incorporate smart home technology for optimised energy management. A few of the benefits:
- Automated systems can adjust blinds based on temperature and sunlight
- Integration with home energy management systems
- Remote operation via smartphone apps
- Timer functions to coordinate with existing heating and cooling systems
A study by the Building Research Establishment (BRE) found that smart-controlled window treatments could improve overall energy efficiency by an additional 7-12% compared to manual operation.
How do I choose the right custom-made blinds?
Being the experts in custom-made blinds, we are always happy to advise! There are a few broad points to consider, however. When selecting custom made blinds for energy efficiency you should:
- Consider the window orientation: South-facing windows benefit from different treatments than north-facing ones
- Evaluate your seasonal needs: Balance winter heat retention with summer cooling requirements. If it’s a conservatory, doubly so
- Assess operation requirements: Manual vs. motorised options based on accessibility, existing systems and your personal usage
- Select the appropriate materials: Different blind types offer varying levels of insulation
Nothing beats professional blind installation
The effectiveness of custom-made blinds for energy efficiency hinges significantly upon proper installation. At Specialist Blinds, our professional installation team are there to ensure this happens every time. Professional measuring and fitting ensure that:
- Minimal gaps around edges that compromise thermal performance
- Correct operation of mechanisms for optimal use
- Appropriate mounting to maximise insulation benefits
Book a consultation for custom-made blinds
There is no shortage of research indicating that blinds made especially for your lovely expansive glazing will save you a lot in the long run. If you’re considering your options or want to discuss further, we’d love to advise you – it’s free of charge and obligation.
Book a consultation with one of our experts now.
