What window coverings work best to keep my house cool in the summer?
Keep Your Cool: How Blinds Help Lewiston Homes Beat the Summer Heat
Summers in Lewiston, Idaho can get hot—really hot. With July temperatures often climbing into the 90s, homeowners are always looking for smart, energy-efficient ways to keep their homes cool. One of the most effective and affordable solutions? Window blinds.
At first glance, blinds might seem like a simple décor choice. But when used correctly, they can make a significant difference in your home’s indoor temperature—and your energy bill.
Why Blinds Matter in Lewiston’s Summer Climate
Lewiston sits in a warm, dry valley where the sun can stream through windows for hours each day. Without proper window treatments, that sunlight heats up interior surfaces, raising indoor temperatures and forcing your AC to work harder.
Blinds act as a barrier between your windows and your home, blocking solar heat before it has a chance to warm the air and surfaces inside.
4 Ways Blinds Help Keep Your Home Cooler
1. They Block Direct Sunlight
Closing blinds during the hottest parts of the day prevents direct sunlight from entering your home, which reduces indoor heat buildup.
2. They Reduce Solar Gain
Reflective or light-colored blinds bounce sunlight back out the window, preventing it from being absorbed into your floors and walls.
3. They Add Insulation
Certain blinds—especially cellular or honeycomb blinds—create air pockets that act as insulation, helping keep cool air in and hot air out.
4. They Cut Energy Costs
By keeping your home naturally cooler, blinds reduce the strain on your air conditioning system, leading to lower energy bills during Lewiston’s hottest months.
Best Types of Blinds for Summer Cooling
If you're looking to maximize the cooling benefits of window coverings, consider:
Cellular Shades: Known for their excellent insulating properties.
Solar Shades: Designed to block UV rays while preserving your view.
White or Reflective Venetian Blinds: Adjustable and great for controlling light and airflow.
Blackout Roller Shades: Ideal for bedrooms and media rooms to block light completely.
Smart Summer Tips for Lewiston Homeowners
Close blinds during peak sun hours (usually 11 AM to 4 PM).
Open windows and blinds at night to let cooler air in.
Use reflective or light-colored blinds on south- and west-facing windows.
Combine blinds with curtains for even better insulation.
Stay Cool, Lewiston
In a climate like Lewiston, Idaho, staying cool doesn’t have to mean blasting the AC all day. With the right window treatments, you can keep your home more comfortable and energy-efficient all summer long.
Whether you're renovating your home or just looking to improve your summer comfort, investing in quality blinds is a smart, stylish move.
Sincerely~ The Design Center of Orofino Idaho
