Curtains Open vs. Closed: Which Is Better to Combat Summer Heat?

With summer in full swing, you might be looking for ways to maintain a comfortable temperature at home without driving up your electric bill. While turning off the lights or closing the blinds may come to mind when thinking about controlling the temperature, you shouldn’t overlook the power of keeping your curtains open or closed as needed.

That said, we tapped energy efficiency experts and interior designers to share insights on whether you should keep curtains open or closed in the summer and winter, as well as how you can maneuver them to achieve your desired home temperature. They also share what types of curtains (and materials) work best depending on the season.

Do Curtains Impact the Temperature in Your Home?

Yes, curtains do impact the temperature in your home. “[Curtains work] by blocking loss of heat in the winter and blocking gain of heat in the summer,” says Chris Walters, owner and director of The Training Center of Air Conditioning & Heating.

That said, there are a couple of nuances to consider regarding how your curtains impact the temperature in your home, such as their placement (whether you keep the curtains open or closed), the time of day, and the positioning of the windows they’re on.

Should You Keep Your Curtains Opened or Closed in the Summer?

You should aim to keep your curtains closed on the windows where the sun is strongest at various points throughout the day to maintain coolness. “In the summer, you would want to close the east-facing drapes in the morning and then close the west-facing window drapes in the late afternoon in an effort to keep the solar rays out,” says Walters.

Should You Keep Your Curtains Opened or Closed in the Winter?

“To keep a home warm in the winter, draperies can be kept open during the brightest part of the day so that any warmth available from the sun can penetrate the glass and help heat the home, while closing them at night can help insulate the home from cold drafts,” says Lindsay Boudreaux, interior designer and founder of Shotgun Double Interior Design. .

FAQ

Does the type of curtains matter when it comes to the temperature in your home?

Yes, the type of curtains you have in your home can impact the temperature. “Light-colored curtains will reflect light back out the window, so that would be great for summer; however, dark curtains might be best in the winter because they will absorb heat from the sunlight,” explains Walters.

Regardless of whether you keep the curtains opened or closed, their materials can contribute to the temperature in your home. “Curtains made from materials like cotton, velvet, or those with a thermal backing offer the best insulation,” says Sarah Jacquelyn Schwuchow, owner and principal interior designer of Sarah Jacquelyn Interiors. “In contrast, sheer or unlined curtains provide minimal protection.”

Furthermore, Walters notes that the size of your curtains can impact their effectiveness when it comes to maintaining temperature. “You are going to get more benefit from heavier curtains with the floor-to-ceiling helping the most because they cover more wall surface as well,” he says.

About the Experts

• Chris Walters is the owner and director of The Training Center of Air Conditioning & Heating.
• Lindsay Boudreaux is an NCIDQ-certified interior designer and founder of Shotgun Double Interior Design.
• Sarah Jacquelyn Schwuchow, ASID, NCIDQ, WELL AP, RID, is the owner and principal interior designer of Sarah Jacquelyn Interiors.

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