When it comes to creating a cosy and energy-efficient home, the question of whether roller blinds keep the heat in is a common one.

The answer is yes, roller blinds can help keep some of the heat in by acting as a barrier from heat escaping through your windows. But here's the trick, how you fit them can make all the difference in how well they keep things toasty inside.

In this article, we'll explore using roller blinds as insulators and provide recommendations for the best blinds to keep the heat in.

What Makes Roller Blinds Good Insulators?

Roller blinds have gained popularity not only for their stylish appearance but because some types also have insulating properties.

Roller blinds are available in various materials, including thicker fabrics that act as insulators. Blackout blinds, are made with a tight closed weave which helps create a barrier between the window and the room, preventing heat loss and cold drafts.

Properly fitted roller blinds can snugly cover the window frame, minimising the escape of warm air and blocking cold air from entering. This tight fit is crucial for effective insulation.

What is the best way to fit roller blinds for effective insulation?

When it comes to fitting roller blinds, there are several methods, each with its own impact on heat retention and energy efficiency. The choice of fitting style can significantly affect how much heat is lost through your windows. Let's explore three common methods of fitting roller blinds and their implications for energy conservation.

Perfect Fit Roller Blinds

Energy Efficiency: Perfect Fit Roller Blinds are one of the most effective options when it comes to preventing heat loss. According to BBSA research fitted roller blinds with a frame have been found to save up to 33% of household energy lost through windows.

Installation: Perfect Fit blinds are specially designed to be fitted within a frame that attaches to the window itself. This design minimises the chance of energy escaping because they sit snugly within the frame, leaving no gaps around the edges.

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Standard Roller Blinds (Inside the Recess):

Energy Efficiency: Standard roller blinds fitted inside the window recess are the least energy-efficient option among the three. According to BBSA research, they save up to 13% of energy lost through windows through their installation.

Installation: These blinds fit within the recessed area of the window, which can result in gaps around the edges. These gaps allow warm air to escape, reducing their effectiveness as insulators.

Standard Roller Blinds (Outside the Recess):

Energy Efficiency: Standard roller blinds, when fitted outside the window recess, provide better energy savings compared to those fitted inside the recess.

Installation: These blinds are installed outside the window recess, which means they cover the window recess completely and allow less air to escape compared to roller blinds fitted inside the recess.

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Best Blinds for Keeping the Heat In

Now, let's delve into some of the best blinds for keeping your home cosy and warm during chilly seasons:

Honeycomb Blinds

Similarly to the fitted roller blinds, honeycomb blinds are perfectly fitted within a frame, minimising energy loss through gaps around the blind, providing an estimated energy saving of up to 32%. The difference between these and roller blinds is that the honeycomb fabric has superior thermal efficiency and is designed with a unique honeycomb structure that traps air within the pockets, acting as an additional barrier against heat being lost through the window.

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Thermal Roman Blinds

Thermal-lined Roman blinds offer more than just energy efficiency; they also provide a sense of luxury and substance. With a thermal lining sewn into the fabric, these blinds have a pleasing weightiness that adds a touch of opulence to your window treatments. This extra layer of material not only enhances their visual appeal but also plays a crucial role in improving their thermal efficiency.

By forming a barrier that reduces heat loss and traps cold air at its source, thermal blinds create a cosy and inviting ambience while helping you save on energy costs. So, with thermal-lined Roman blinds, you can enjoy both the aesthetics and the practicality of a warmer, more energy-efficient home.

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Internal Shutters

Internal shutters are a great source of insulation, providing a solid additional layer to reduce energy loss through windows by up to 28%. Alongside this, the slats can be angled to allow natural light into the room whilst also restricting direct sunlight. This adjustability is ideal for optimising natural heat sources, as you can further close the slats as the sun passes to trap the warmth inside your home.

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FAQs

Are roller blinds better insulators than curtains?

While curtains with thermal linings are known for their excellent insulating properties, it's challenging to definitively state whether roller blinds outperform curtains in insulation since no specific research has directly compared the two. However, it's worth noting that combining roller blinds with curtains can enhance overall insulation.

Can roller blinds help reduce energy bills?

Yes, by preventing heat loss through windows, roller blinds can contribute to reduced energy consumption and lower heating bills.

Do roller blinds work well in summer too?

Roller blinds are versatile and can be effective in summer by blocking out the sun's heat and UV rays, helping to keep your home cooler.

How should I operate my roller blinds to improve energy efficiency?

To optimise their energy-saving potential, keep roller blinds closed during cold weather to retain heat and open them on sunny days to harness natural warmth and light. Be sure to close them when the sun moves to conserve this natural energy.

Conclusion

In conclusion, roller blinds can indeed help keep the heat in during colder months. By choosing the right materials and fitting style, you can create a comfortable and energy-efficient living space while also adding a touch of elegance to your decor. Consider the specific needs of each room in your home and explore the wide range of roller blinds available to find the perfect fit for your insulation and aesthetic preferences.