Solar shades or reflective window film are the best window coverings to block heat. Solar shades confine solar heat gain and block damaging UV rays while keeping a view of the outdoors. And the reflective window films reflect heat away from the windows so they cannot enter the interior.
Foam board insulation with foil, reflective mylar emergency blankets, and regular tinfoil are all good options for things to cover the window from the inside to keep the sun out. Normal blinds work well too as long as they're white and fit the window properly.
By placing it on the inside of a window, it can prevent some of the solar heat from entering, which can help maintain a lower indoor temperature. Reduced Heat Gain: By reflecting heat, aluminum foil reduces the overall heat gain in the room, making it feel cooler, especially during hot days.
Energy efficient window coverings, like solar shades or blackout curtains, block sunlight and reduce heat gain. This makes your living spaces cooler and more energy-efficient. This not only enhances comfort but also lowers energy costs by reducing the need for air conditioning.
Cardboard and Aluminium Foil
Consider using cardboard and aluminium foil for a temporary and highly budget-friendly solution. Cut the cardboard to fit your window panes and cover it with aluminium foil to reflect sunlight.
Large west, east and north-facing windows should be shaded for increased energy efficiency. External shading is much more effective at keeping your home cool than internal blinds or curtains, as it stops the heat reaching the glass, but using both external and internal window coverings will provide maximum protection.
Emergency management agencies specifically recommend using aluminum foil-covered cardboard that goes between windows and drapes.
A SIMPLE experiment will show that - contrary to Joyce Masse's suggestion - the dull side of aluminium foil reflects as much heat as the shiny side. Turn your kitchen grill fully on and place your hand by the side of the grill out of direct line of sight of the element.
According to the HowToGoSolar, a free online resource geared toward educating homeowners on the benefits of solar power and energy efficiency, bubble wrapped windows show insulating improvements that are 50% better on single-glazed windows, cutting utility bills almost in half.
Solar heat absorption: The plastic film absorbs a significant amount of the sun's heat energy that would normally be reflected away by the glass. Heat trapping: The absorbed heat is then trapped inside the plastic layer, creating a warm microclimate between the plastic and the window glass.
Draperies, Venetian blinds, vertical blinds, roll up shades, and a variety of other interior attachments are common additions to residential windows. They are used more for aesthetics and privacy than for solar heat gain prevention, but they can be effective heat blockers just the same.
To put it simply, yes. Reflective window film blocks a significant amount of heat, just like solar film.
Though there is a difference in how much heat the shiny vs. dull side reflects or retains, measured over time and considering the type of heat the oven emits, that difference is negligible and has little to no discernable impact on the food. That's why it doesn't matter which side you use.
Shiny side up. Your vehicle hasn't flipped over after a rollover or accident. “Keep the shiny side up” means to have a safe trip.
Just spray some water on the window, roll out the tin foil directly over the water, and voila! In no time at all, you've created complete blackout, allowing your little one to sleep soundly through the morning, even when the sun is shining brightly overhead.
A piece of cardboard can act as insulation for the window by covering up any openings or gaps between pieces of glass.
If you have double pane windows, placing foil insulation on the inside of the glass may cause the window seal to fail. The reason for this is that the foil is reflecting heat back through the glass panes causing it to super heat.
Options include shades, blinds, screens, awnings, draperies or curtains, and shutters. Operable window shades help control daylighting.
Cellular Shades
They're one of the best window coverings to keep heat out and to keep cold out. Cellular shades come in a wide range of colors.
For insulation purposes, cellular or honeycomb shades are the most effective. The honeycomb shape helps to trap air, reducing your solar heat gain. You also may want to consider adding side tracks to your shades so they sit closer to the window and block out more heat. Also, keep in mind the colour you choose.