Ever feel the chill from a window before you notice the heat in the room? In a Manhattan apartment, big windows bring in wonderful light, but they can also let warmth slip away as November turns colder. The right energy-efficient window shades in NYC can help you hold in comfort without giving up the view you love.
Why Do Windows Feel So Cold in Winter?
Glass loses heat faster than a solid wall, so the area around a window often feels cooler first. Tall panes and older frames can add drafts on top of that. That is why a sunny sofa can feel cozy at noon and drafty by evening. Here is a surprising detail: the U.S. Department of Energy reports that about 75% of residential window coverings stay in the same position every day. Using your shades on purpose is an easy first step.
Which Window Coverings Help Hold In Warmth?
A few options stand out:
- Cellular shades:Honeycomb shades in NYC apartments trap air inside small pockets. The Department of Energy says insulated cellular shades are typically considered to have the highest R-values of all window coverings.
- Roman shades:Custom Roman shades add a soft fabric layer, and a lined style gives the window extra body.
- Drapes:Floor-length custom drapes, layered over a shade, help reduce drafts and add a cozy finish.
No single product solves everything, but layering works well. A cellular shade closest to the glass, with drapes outside it, gives you flexibility for bright days and cold nights. It lets you adjust the room’s mood without changing the look.
How Can You Use Shades Through the Day?
Think of your shades as a daily routine, not a one-time decision:
- Open them on sunny afternoons so natural warmth can enter
- Close them at dusk to add a barrier against the cold
- Choose a snug, measured fit so air has fewer gaps to slip through
Pairing a precise fit with energy-efficient window shades in NYC also keeps your rooms looking tidy and tailored.
At Royal Window Treatments NYC, we have served Manhattan and the greater New York City area for more than 20 years. Our family-owned business offers many window coverings in NYC, from shades and blinds to shutters and drapes, along with a free in-home consultation.