eBook - Energy Saving Home Improvements from A to Z

Louvers: Louvers are an attractive option because their adjustable slats control the level of light entering a home. They operate like exterior mini-blinds and, depending on the design, can be adjusted from either inside or outside of the house. Slats can be vertical or horizontal. Non-removable, fixed louvers can also be attached to the exteriors of window frames.

Figure 96

Shutters: Shutters are moveable wooden or metal coverings that, when closed, keep sunlight out. They can be either solid or slatted, with fixed or adjustable slats. Besides reducing heat gain, they afford privacy and security. Some shutters can help insulate windows when it is cold outside and can be opened during the day to capture the desirable winter heat gain. Rolling shutters have a series of horizontal slats that run down along a track. Rolling shades are similar in design but use fabric. Although both options are expensive, they work well and many models can be conveniently controlled from the inside. One disadvantage is that they block all light when fully unrolled.

Screens: Solar screens resemble standard window screens, except they block light and cut glare without obstructing the view or eliminating air flow. They also provide privacy by restricting the view into your house. Solar screens come in a variety of colors and screening materials, and some local utility companies sponsor shade screen programs. Do-it-yourself kits are available, but such screens typically do not last as long as professionally built screens.

Figure 97

Shade devices inside your home: To shade your home from the inside, you can use draperies and curtains made of tightly woven, light-colored, opaque fabrics that reflect much of the sun's rays. The tighter the curtain is fitted against the wall around the window, the better it will prevent heat gain or loss. Two layers of draperies improve the effectiveness of the draperies insulation when it is either hot or cold outside.

Although Venetian blinds are not as effective as draperies, they can be adjusted to let in some light and air while reflecting the sun's heat. Some newer blinds are coated with reflective finishes. To be effective, these reflective surfaces must face the outdoors. Some window manufacturers even offer "mini-blind" louvers built-in between the glass of dual-pane windows and skylights.

Figure 98 Related Article... 1741 - Here is something great for your summer garden. Blueberries. Not everyone can grow them. You need suitable soil conditions and temperatures. If you live in a part of the country that can support blueberry growth, what are you waiting for? Blueberries are one of those perfect foods. Blueberries have some very nutritional and beneficial properties. They have been talking about this for the past few years and I thought I would summarize what people are saying for you. First, blueberries may help keep blood pressure in check. Finland's largest dairy group, Valio, recently began marketing a blueberry milk product called "Evolus," which they claim is the first blood-pressure lowering food product in Europe. According to Valio, the blue milk and has been the subject of two independent studies, including one study by the Finnish National Public Health Institute. Test subjects who had slightly elevated blood pressure were given two doses of Evolus for eight weeks. According to the company, blood pressure was measured weekly and both diastolic and systolic blood pressure in those who consumed the product fell further than the placebo groups. Here's to blue milk (but will American kids drink blue milk? Read this Nemmar Real Estate Training article at Exterior - Landscaping, Lawn, Garden, Trees

Some interior cellular, or honeycombed, shades also come with reflective Mylar coatings. One drawback of the design is that it blocks natural light and restricts normal air flow. Likewise, opaque roller shades can be effective when fully drawn but also cut off light and air.

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