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.
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.
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.
Window Films. Window films (applied to the glazing surface) help block against solar heat gain and protect against glare and ultraviolet exposure. They are best used in climates with long cooling seasons, because they also block the sun's heat in the winter.
Emergency management agencies specifically recommend using aluminum foil-covered cardboard that goes between windows and drapes.
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.
Curtains, sealed blinds and shutters
Curtains lined with a layer of heavy material can reduce heat loss from a room through the window at night and cut draughts. Hollow blinds, fitted into place with a sealed frame, and sealed shutters will also help cut draughts and keep your heat in for longer.
One of the most effective window films for blocking heat and finding long-lasting comfort, the 3M Sun Control Prestige Series is a great option. A 3M Prestige window film features a multilayer design with nanotechnology, putting up a powerful defense against the sun.
Bubble wrap is often used to insulate greenhouse windows in the winter, but it also seems to work fine for windows in the house. You can use it with or without regular or insulating window shades. It also works for windows of irregular shape, which can be difficult to find insulating shades for.
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.
In some cases, window insulation kits can reduce heat loss by 35%. Scientifically, what you're doing is creating a thermal-trapping, airtight air space between the plastic film and the glass window pane.
The insulating properties of bubble wrap help maintain stable indoor temperatures, reducing the reliance on heating and cooling systems. This translates to substantial energy savings and lower utility bills over time. Bubble wrap insulation offers a remarkable level of versatility and ease of installation.
Draperies. Draperies can reduce heat transfer into a room both by containing air that gets through the windows in the space between the drapes and the windows, and also by blocking hot sunlight from getting through the windows to heat up the rest of the room.
A piece of cardboard can act as insulation for the window by covering up any openings or gaps between pieces of glass.
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.
Install temporary reflectors, such as aluminum foil covered cardboard, in windows and skylights to reflect heat back outside. If the air temperature outside is below 95°F, open a window and place an electric fan near the open window to assist with evaporative cooling.