With the rocky economy, and rising cost all around, we all need to find ways to cut back. One of the easiest ways to save extra cash is too cut back on our energy expenditures. Fabric shades are a relatively inexpensive option to cut down energy cost. Insulated fabric shades can reduce the heat in the summer and block out the chilly drafts in the winter. Let’s take a look at a few fabric shades that are decorative and energy efficient.
Roman Shades Roman shades are a very simply ideal solution to consider. They are uncomplicated and extremely versatile. The structured flat roman shade has several rear facing pleats in the back of the shade which allows the shade to fold beautifully when raised up and down. When constructed with a stiffer fabric such as linen, jacquards, and cottons, the shade will have a tailored look. When using softer fabrics such as silk, sheers, or light weight polyesters, the shade will take on a more relaxed look. This shade should be lined with a sateen lining, semi blackout lining, or a blackout lining for maximum energy efficiency.
Austrian Shades The Austrian shades are a very elaborate fabric shade. When this shade is lowered, they look very similar to a typical curtain. When they are raised, they fabric draws upward in deep scallops. Austrian shades are typically made with sheers, or other light weight fabrics such as light weight silks. Look for a suede lining in this shade to cut back on the drafts in the winter. This shade can be used alone, or paired with a beautiful set of panels.
Balloon Shades The balloon shade is more formal than the roman shade. It has box pleats approximately 15” apart at the top and a waterfall of balloon shaped poufs at the bottom. Soft pliable fabrics work best with this shade, although heavier fabrics can be used as well. Because of the amount of fabric it takes to construct this shade, the balloon shades are pretty heavy. When optioning for this shade, be sure that the shade is lined preferably with a semi-blackout lining. This will cut back on the energy cost.
About the Author:
Andrea Julien is the owner of Drea’ Custom Designs. For more design tips visit us at Dreá Custom Designs
Article Source: ArticlesBase.com – Energy Efficient Fabric Shades
