Summer is a fun season with BBQs, swims in the local pool, and lots of sunshine. But all that sun can also mean the temps inside your home rise. 

No one likes to be uncomfortable in their own home during the summer or have sky-high utility bills due to running the AC nonstop? And replacing all of your windows to double or triple pane is very expensive.

Fortunately, there are plenty of window coverings that can help regulate the temps inside your home by insulating your windows. These window treatments can help block hot rays of sunlight, keeping temps lower and your AC running less often. 

Here are our top five favorite stylish window treatments for beating the summer heat. 

1 | Cellular Shades

Cellular shades, also known as honeycomb shades, have a pocketed design that traps both hot and cold air. These shades are the most energy efficient window covering, providing year-round insulation and 100% energy savings!

However, don’t confuse these shades for those of your grandmother’s era. Today’s cellular shades are sleek and modern. They come in a variety of materials and colors, and with up to three layers of cells, you can select the price and energy efficiency that meets your needs. There are also cordless options for those wishing for a very clean look, or those with small children and pets in their homes.

2 | Lined Roman Shades

Roman shades are classy and chic. These timeless shades have options for adding a lining to the back that can provide additional insulation. The linings vary from a basic fabric lining to blackout lining providing up to 75% energy savings. 

There are many options available to choose from when selecting your roman shade. These options include fabric, color, pattern, as well as pleat type. Pleats can be very structured to soft swoops of fabric depending on your home decor style. Of course you can also opt for different linings, privacy, and cordless shades. 

3 | Interior Shutters

Interior shutters are a very popular option. They not only add a timeless touch of class to your home, but plenty of curb appeal too. In fact, these window coverings are so desirable that they add value to your home! 

When it comes to energy savings and insulation, interior shutters are considered by many to be the all-around most complete solution to covering your windows. Like blinds, they add full control over light filtering and privacy. Because they are mounted directly to the window frame, it minimizes gaps where hot and cold air can seep through, protecting your home from the outdoor elements and helping to regulate your indoor temperatures year round. 

Shutters come in real and faux wood options in a variety of stains and colors. You can also select from many different control options, such as hidden tilts and locking mechanisms to ensure child safety. 

4 | Solar Shades

Solar shades provide a simple and streamlined appearance. The shades roll up into a neat stack, but when drawn, help block sunlight that can heat up your home. Think of them as sunglasses for your windows. You can select from different weave openness options, with tighter weaves providing up to 50% energy savings. 

Solar shades come in a variety of textures and colors. You can select from cordless and even motorized options. 

5 | Outdoor Shades

Covering outdoor spaces with outdoor shades can help to reduce temps in your home, especially if the shades help to cover large windows or sliding glass doors. From exterior sun shades to patio shades, you can not only extend your living space during the summer, but help keep your home cooler as well. 

Like other shades, outdoor shades come in a variety of fabrics, hardware, and textures, allowing you to customize your outdoor spaces in style. 

Stay Cool This Summer With Elevated Views

We know that temps are rising here in southern Colorado and the Pikes Peak region. Beat the heat this summer and stay cool with the help of Elevated Views! We know that the right window covering can change your view, and how you feel inside your home! We offer countless options to meet a variety of budgets and styles. Schedule a free in-home consultation and quote today and we’ll bring the showroom to you!