If you’ve made it this far, you are probably shopping for new window treatments for your home and have narrowed it down to exterior and solar sun shades for windows interior. But while both of these window treatments provide you with UV protection, privacy, and allow you to enjoy a view of your backyard, what are the real differences between them? In this article, we will discuss the practicality, design, and cost of these window treatments to help you select the best option for your home and wallet!
What Is the Difference Between Interior and Exterior Solar Sun Shades?
Exterior and interior solar shades serve slightly different purposes. For example, while you can place exterior solar sun shades on the outside of your home’s windows, they are designed specifically for outdoor enclosures like a covered porch or deck, and function similarly to an awning. Exterior solar sun shades are more effective than their interior counterparts at keeping your outdoor enclosure and home’s interior cool. This is because once sunlight comes into contact with even a small portion of your window, heat is transferred throughout your home. However, because exterior solar sun shades are installed on the outside of your windows, they will prevent sunlight from coming into contact with your windows in the first place, reducing the need to run your air conditioner all day.
When to Choose Interior Solar Sun Shades
Did you know that UV rays can be harmful to your furnishings and health? Solar sun shades for windows interior will not only protect you and your furnishings from the damaging effects of UV rays, but they will completely satisfy your needs if you live in an area that does not receive excessive sunlight throughout the year. If you work from home and want to eliminate annoying glare that interferes with your work, this window treatment may be the better option for you since it rests right up against your window, reducing the most glare. Additionally, interior solar shades are easier to install than exterior solar sun shades, especially if you wish to put them in upper-floor windows. Not to mention that unless you motorize the exterior solar sun shades on your home’s upper levels, you will be unable to operate them from within.
When to Choose Exterior Solar Sun Shades
Aside from providing shade for your outdoor enclosure, there are many other reasons that you may prefer exterior solar sun shades. Many homeowners claim that interior solar shades detract from the aesthetic of their interior design; fortunately, because exterior solar sun shades are installed outside, your guests won’t get distracted!
Do you live in a state that has warm weather practically all year? You’ll get the most out of exterior solar sun shades, especially if you have an outdoor enclosure. With exterior solar sun shades, you can sit back and relax on your balcony (with a margarita in hand!) while receiving the privacy and pest control that you need.
Operation
In terms of operation, both window treatments can be operated with a continuous cord and clutch, a cordless lifting system, or a remote (for motorized shades). However, if you choose exterior solar shades, you may want to opt for motorization so you won’t have to physically go outside whenever you want to adjust them!
Cost
Interior solar shades are more affordable than exterior solar shades. This is due to the fact that exterior solar shades must be extremely durable to withstand harsh weather, and they usually require more specialized installation techniques. If you’re on a tight budget, solar sun shades for windows interior are the less expensive option.
Choose the Perfect Solar Shades for Your Home Today
When deciding between exterior and interior solar shades for your home, the most important aspect to consider is functionality. If you’re mostly looking to block out sunlight and harmful UV rays from your home, you may want to consider interior solar shades. If you have an outdoor area that you’d like to be able to use without being bothered by your nosy neighbors, exterior solar sun shades may be the better option for you. If you’re still unsure which window treatment is the right fit, don’t hesitate to reach out to Urban Window Treatments. We’re here to help and answer any questions that you may have about solar sun shades!
