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Window Coverings Cut Energy Costs
As homeowners across the country prepare to make improvements to their homes, many are thinking in two particular shades of green - environmentally friendly and fiscally sound.
The Department of Energy reports that heating and cooling accounts for nearly 56 percent of the energy use in a typical home, making it the largest energy expense in most households. In some cases, heat gain can be reduced by 45 percent with the use of proper window treatments, according to the U.S. Department of Energy.
Budget Blinds of Ramona has several ideas on how to make a difference, offering a variety of window covering products that are not only eco-friendly, but decorative, too.
Insulating window coverings reduce energy consumption and costs. Solar shades reduce harmful ultraviolet rays and protect upholstery and carpet from fading, as well as let consumers reduce air conditioner use. Shutters and cellular shades have thermal insulation properties that help retain heat in the winter and hold in cool air in the summer.
Using renewable materials is another way to be eco-friendly without sacrificing beauty. Customers may choose woven woods such as bamboo, grass and reeds or composite wood blinds made from mostly recycled materials.
Window film, which now comes in varying degrees of lightness and darkness and without a shiny exterior, can cut 99 percent of UV exposure. Many brands also carry the Skin Cancer Foundation Seal of Approval.
Budget Blinds carries roller shades, which received GREENGUARD Environmental Institute certification. Not only do these products reduce UV exposure, they are also low-emitting products. The Institute established performance-based standards to identify products with low chemical and particle emissions for use in indoor furnishings among other uses.
Budget Blinds Style Consultant Katie Brisichella, will be happy to suggest window coverings that perform beautifully and look great. Schedule a free home consultation by calling760-788-8050, or visit www.budgetblinds.com/Ramona.
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