use awnings and/or interior roller blinds
initial requirements:
- Unshaded windows face east, southeast, south, southwest, or west; owners prefer blinds or awnings to shade screens or reflective window film
materials needed:
- White roller blinds sized for the window –– the white color is important to reflect incoming summer sunlight back out the window.
- Awnings – preferably should be wider than the window, should extend over it in summer, and should be retractable to allow full sunlight in winter. Also, the awning should have vent holes where it attaches to the house to keep from trapping hot air under the awning.
tools needed:
Roller blind:
- Screwdriver
- Hammer
- Tape rule
Awning:
- Electric drill with bits
- Carpenter’s tool belt
- Level
required skills:
Roller blind – simple handiwork
Awnings – basic carpentry
annual energy savings: up to 25% of cooling costs
average time required:
¼ to ½ hour/roller blind
½ to 2 hours/awning
project steps:
- Follow instructions that come with the products.
