Draperies Save Energy

Many people may look at draperies as just a pretty addition to the home décor or another added expense to upgrade their home. However, what many people don’t understand is the great service that draperies can provide, especially in an older home or in the northern parts of our country where it is very cold.

For example, many older homes that still have the original windows and framing may have a lot of drafts throughout the house. Obviously draperies will not correct any holes or cracks around the windows, but hanging draperies will help block the drafts considerably. If you are willing to spend the extra dollars when you purchase the draperies, it is even more effective to have them thermal lined.

Free hanging side panels help somewhat, but the most effective way to save energy would be to hang a full pleated drapery that you can close over your entire window, if necessary. There are also thermal panels available through catalogs and some Do-It-Yourself stores that you can hang on a rod in front of your window. Try to purchase one that is wide enough to cover the framing of window. The only drawback with these panels is that to have them be effective, you may not be able to let any light in.

Whatever type of lined drapery you choose, it will definitely help your energy costs go down by keeping out the cold air. The great news is that the same drapery will also help save on your cooling in the summer time. By keeping the drapery closed when the hot sun is on that window, you will notice that the room will stay much cooler.