How to block sun from windows DIY?

Author: Kiana Lubowitz  |  Last update: Sunday, October 19, 2025

Using Quick and Easy Solutions
  1. Apply a tinted window film to reduce sunlight. ...
  2. Frost the window with spray paint to block just a bit of sun. ...
  3. Cover your windows with cardboard to completely block the sun. ...
  4. Use aluminum foil for an energy efficient option.

How do you block the sun from windows cheaply?

If you are not a fan of cardboard or aluminum foil, there are pleated paper shades that are very cheap and just use tape for install. An example is here and here. These can usually be found at big box hardware stores and any other large home goods stores.

How to cover a window from sunlight DIY?

A low-fi solution is to put black velvet or other matte material around the interior window frame to absorb light. Even spray-painted burlap will work. Then put a 6'' band of aluminum foil on the window itself around the edges to reduce the angle of the light from the edges of the window.

How to stop sunlight from coming through a window?

- Tinting: Use tinted glass or adhesive films that reduce visibility and light. Sealing Gaps: - Ensure that your window frames are properly sealed to prevent light from leaking through any gaps. External Options: - Awnings or Overhangs: Install awnings or overhangs to block direct light from entering the windows.

How to stop sun heat from coming through windows?

10 ways to insulate windows for summer
  1. Add weatherstripping to your windows. ...
  2. Use window films to reflect heat. ...
  3. Invest in cellular shades. ...
  4. Purchase blackout blinds. ...
  5. Use draft snakes for window insulation. ...
  6. Insulate windows using bubble wrap. ...
  7. Upgrade to energy-efficient windows. ...
  8. Install insulating shutters.

tin foil on windows to reflect summer sun. (WORKS)

What is the best window heat blocking film?

3M Affinity Series: The 3M Affinity Series is another excellent option for heat control. These affordable films provide strong heat rejection, reducing up to 79% of the heat from your windows. They also block up to 99% of UV rays, helping to protect your furnishings from fading and your skin from harmful exposure.

Does putting aluminum foil on windows keep the heat out?

Aluminium foil is both pliable, cheap and highly resistant to high temperatures. Spreading tin foil on any windows that receive direct sunlight can redirect the sun and heat away from your home.

How to blackout windows DIY?

Here are a few options:
  1. Cardboard cut-outs: You can cut cardboard to the size of your window and secure it in place. While not the most elegant solution, it's highly effective and virtually cost-free.
  2. Fabric cover: Attach a dark fabric or blanket over your windows using command hooks or similar non-damaging attachments.

What is the best window covering to keep heat out?

Insulated cellular shades are typically considered to have the highest R-values of all window coverings. The air pockets in the honeycomb cross-sections act as insulators, increasing the R-value and reducing the conduction of heat through the window.

How do you sun proof windows?

3M™ Window Films let in the light you love while reflecting much of the sun's heat away from your home. They reject up to 78% of solar heat and filter visible light. At the same time, they block up to 99% of UV rays to help protect your furnishings from fading.

How to completely block light from a window?

How to Blackout Windows Without Breaking the Bank
  1. Blackout Window Film. One of the most efficient and affordable ways to blackout windows is by using blackout window film. ...
  2. Blackout Curtains or Blinds. ...
  3. Cardboard and Aluminium Foil. ...
  4. Blackout Roller Shades. ...
  5. Privacy Film. ...
  6. DIY Blackout Panels.

Does cardboard block sunlight?

So if you have a temperature differential, the cardboard will reduce the rate of heat transfer. But you specified sunlight, which means radiation. The cardboard will block this, but will absorb some of the light, So, as I said, it will heat up, and radiate into the box.

How to block windows without curtains?

Use Cardboard or Tin Foil

It is ideal because light cannot pass through the tin foil, It is perfect for those who work at night and sleep during the day. Due to its malleable property, it can be shaped and moulded according to different window shapes.

What can I use to block the sun?

Curtains and Drapery

Curtains and draperies are other excellent options for blocking sunlight and heat. They come in various materials, including cotton, linen, and silk. Curtains can be hung in front of windows or used as room dividers.

How effective is bubble wrap on windows?

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.

How to blackout windows with foil?

All you need is a roll of tin foil, a spray bottle filled with water, and a window. Just spray some water on the window, roll out the tin foil directly over the water, and voila!

How to block heat from windows DIY?

  1. Heat Blocking Window Shades. Putting up window shades is a quick fix for solar overheating. ...
  2. Blockout Roller or Panel Blinds. ...
  3. External Window Shading. ...
  4. Bubble Wrap Window Insulation. ...
  5. Heat Reducing Window Film. ...
  6. Combining Multiple Methods.

What color blinds block the most heat?

What colour blinds keep the heat out most effectively in summer? White or another light-coloured blind is the lining shade you want in order to insulate against the sun in summer, and to lower the extent to which the room heats up and holds onto the heat.

How can I reduce heat gain through my windows?

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.

What is the cheapest way to block sun from windows?

Consider covering your windows with aluminum foil for a quick and budget-friendly solution. This reflective material efficiently blocks out light and is readily available.

What can I put on my windows to black them out?

You can easily and cheaply use tin foil or cardboard to black out your windows. Save a pretty penny by cutting either material to the size of your windows and taping it to the window.

Does aluminum foil block light?

It is not a permanent solution: Aluminium foil is not designed to be a permanent solution for blackout windows. It can quickly become damaged, torn or deteriorate, and it may not even block out all of the light.

Is it illegal to put aluminum foil on windows?

Emergency management agencies specifically recommend using aluminum foil-covered cardboard that goes between windows and drapes.

Which side of aluminum foil reflects heat?

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.

Why wrap foil around doorknobs?

All it says is aluminum foil can be used as an alternative to tape to cover doorknobs and hardware while painting. It has nothing to do with safety and the inclusion of the phrase "when you're home alone" was only used as clickbait to make the ad seem more important. Copyright 2022 Scripps Media, Inc.

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