Summer in Australia can be brutal, and keeping your home cool is no easy task. Sure, air conditioning is a lifesaver, but did you know that your window coverings can be just as effective in keeping the heat out? The right coverings not only help beat the summer heat but also save energy and make your home look amazing. From blockout made to measure curtains to motorised luxury blinds, there are so many stylish and practical options to choose from. Let’s explore the best window coverings to keep your home cool, energy-efficient, and ready for summer!
1. Blockout Curtains: Your Summer MVP
Blockout made to measure curtains are a no-brainer when it comes to keeping out the heat. Made from thick, insulated fabrics, they do an excellent job of blocking sunlight and reducing the temperature inside.
Why They Work
- Blocks the Heat: These curtains can block up to 99% of sunlight, keeping your space cooler during the hottest parts of the day.
- Energy Savings: Less heat inside means you’ll use your air conditioning less, saving on energy bills.
- Style Options: Whether you prefer bold prints or classic neutrals, blockout curtains come in a wide range of designs to fit your vibe.
Pro Tip
Hang your blockout curtains a little wider and longer than your window frame to seal out as much heat as possible.
Best Spots for Blockout Curtains
- Bedrooms: Create a cool, dark oasis for better summer sleep.
- Living Rooms: Keep the glare off your TV and protect your furniture from fading in the sun.
2. Luxury Blinds: Sleek and Smart for Summer
Luxury blinds are a modern and space-saving way to control light and heat. Whether you go for roller, honeycomb, or Venetian blinds, they’re great for keeping things cool while adding a touch of sophistication.
Top Blind Options
- Roller Blinds: Simple, elegant, and available in sunscreen or blockout fabrics. They’re great for cutting glare and reducing heat.
- Honeycomb Blinds: These clever blinds trap air in their cells, acting like a layer of insulation to keep the heat out.
- Venetian Blinds: With adjustable slats, you can easily control how much sunlight and heat enters your home.
Why You’ll Love Them
- Customisable: Pick your fabric, colour, and finish to match your style.
- Practical: They’re easy to operate and ideal for smaller spaces where curtains might feel too bulky.
- UV Protection: Keep your floors and furniture looking fresh by blocking harmful rays.
Best Spots for Blinds
- Kitchens: Perfect for reducing heat while you cook.
- Home Offices: Create a glare-free workspace that stays cool all day.
3. Insulated Indoor Shutters: Timeless and Tough
If you’re after a window covering that’s both stylish and practical, insulated indoor shutters are a great pick. Made from materials like PVC or timber, they’re built to handle Australia’s hot summers while adding a timeless charm to your home.
Why Shutters Rock
- Heat Busters: Their insulation properties help keep your home cool, even on the hottest days, making them a great choice for energy efficiency.
- Low Maintenance: Just wipe them clean, and they’ll stay looking fantastic for years.
- Custom Fit: Perfect for unique windows, like bays or arches, for a flawless finish.
Where Shutters Shine
- Living Areas: Great for large windows that deserve a little extra love.
- Bathrooms: PVC shutters handle humidity like a pro, making them ideal for steamy spaces.
4. Motorised Coverings: The Coolest Way to Stay Cool
Let’s talk about next-level convenience: motorised window coverings. With Somfy motorisation, you can control your blinds, curtains, or shutters with the touch of a button—or even automate them to adjust throughout the day.
Why Go Motorised?
- Smart Control: Set schedules to close coverings during the hottest part of the day and open them when it cools down.
- Energy Efficiency: Automating your coverings keeps heat out without you even having to think about it.
- Convenience: Hard-to-reach windows? No problem. Motorisation lets you control them all with ease.
Best Spots for Motorisation
- Floor-to-Ceiling Windows: Perfect for large or high windows that are tricky to reach.
- Whole-Home Solutions: Sync with your smart home system for ultimate convenience.
5. Layer Up for Maximum Impact
Why settle for just one type of window covering when you can layer them for even better results? Combine blockout curtains with roller blinds or shutters to block heat and add style. Plus, layers let you mix and match textures, patterns, and colours for a designer look.
How to Choose the Right Window Coverings for Summer
- Material Matters: Look for heat-resistant fabrics or materials designed to handle Australia’s summer heat.
- Light Colours: Lighter shades reflect sunlight better, helping to keep your home cool.
- Think Long-Term: Invest in high-quality coverings that will stand up to years of summer heat.
Stay Cool and Comfortable This Summer
With the right window coverings, you can keep your home cool, stylish, and energy-efficient all summer long. Whether you go for the classic appeal of blockout made to measure curtains, the sleek practicality of luxury blinds, or the tech-savvy convenience of motorised window treatments, there’s an option to suit every home and style. So, make this summer your coolest yet—literally—and enjoy a home that’s as comfortable as it is beautiful!