With summer temperatures that routinely soar well into the 90s, Dallas homeowners are always trying to find ways to keep their homes and their families cool and comfortable. And while cranking up the air conditioning may provide some reprieve, that relief is often short-lived once the electric bill arrives. If only there was a better, more affordable way to beat the Texas heat. There is. They’re called solar screens, and here’s why you should consider investing in some.
What are solar screens and how do they work?
Solar screens are special window coverings that are made from a heavy-duty mesh material that’s designed specifically to reduce heat transfer. They are installed on the outside of the windows and serve as an additional layer of protection between your home’s interior and the harmful rays of the sun. Not only does this help to reduce your energy costs, but by reducing glare and UV rays, they also help to prevent damage to property, such as drapes, carpets and furniture.
Pros and Cons of Solar Screens
One of the main concerns homeowners have when it comes to solar screens is their dark appearance. But while solar screens may look dark from the outside, there’s little impact to lighting on the inside. In fact, looking out through solar screens can be compared to looking at the world through a pair of sunglasses. In fact, in some cases, the outward view can actually be enhanced through solar screens. Another potential downside of solar screens is the risk of them becoming damaged or dislodged during a storm. Provided they are installed by someone experienced, however, this risk is extremely minimal.
Energy and Cost Savings
Each year, the average American household spends anywhere from $1,500 to $2,500 on energy bills. 45% of that is attributed solely to heating and cooling costs. It’s no surprise, then, that the biggest benefit of installing solar screens on your home is the savings you’ll realize by reducing your home cooling costs. This is especially the case in geographic areas with hot climates, like the Dallas Fort Worth area. In our experience, solar shades can reduce room temperature within the home by up to 15 degrees. That may not seem like much, but that type of reduction can equate to a savings of up to 25-30% each and every month!
Where’s the best place to install solar screens?
There’s really no right or wrong answer to this question. It will ultimately depend on your own needs, preferences and budget. In reality, solar screens can be installed on just about every window in your home. If you aren’t keen on a full-home installation, however, we recommend focusing on those rooms in your home that are “problem areas” – that is, those rooms that tend to become hotter than others. Installing solar screens on the exterior windows of these problem areas will reduce cooling costs and provide a noticeable difference in comfort level.
Are solar screens right for me?
Only you can answer this question; however, the team at My Affordable Glass and Remodeling would be happy to help you make a more informed decision. If you’re interested in learning more about this innovative option, we invite you to get in touch. One of our experienced technicians can discuss your specific needs, answer any questions you may have and provide you with a no-obligation estimate.
Contact us today to find out whether solar screens would be a worthwhile investment for your home.