Window Shades for Storm Windows

One of the primary purposes of storm windows, often found in cold climate-regions, is to improve window thermal efficiency. Similarly, you want window shades for storm windows that do the same. Therefore, insulating shades are ideal. They help keep rooms warmer in the colder months and cooler in the hotter months. They also afford light control, privacy, and noise reduction.

These shade types enhance your storm windows, both aesthetically and thermally:

• Thermal. They come in various fabrics, textures, and weaves, like micro-suede or polyester, with insulating material. A rainbow of colors is available. Styles include Roman and roller. Ideally, they will have a dark, heat-absorbing side that faces outside (to allow in warm air) and a light, reflective side that faces inside (to reflect the thermal energy away from the window).
• Cellular. Their fabric contains individual cells, each of which traps air. The greater the number of cells, the more insulation the shade provides. These popular shades are made of light-filtering and room-darkening fabrics, in several colors.
• Quilt. They consist of several layers of spun polyester and radiant barriers like aluminized Mylar, all enclosed in a soft, quilt-looking cloth. An array of colors and patterns are available.
• Solar. They are energy efficient but also preserve your views. The smaller their openness factor, the tighter their weave and the more light they block. They, too, come in different materials and hues.

Prices for window shades for storm windows vary by type, depending on their thermal efficiency, fabric, and insulating material.