Roofing

The roof is an important part of a building that provides protection from weather conditions. It is also an integral part of the overall aesthetics of a structure.

Roofing is the process of covering a roof with different materials. The most common material used is asphalt shingles. Other options include clay or slate roofs, and even metal. Contact Erie Roofing now!

Roofing materials are the outer layer that protects a home or commercial building from the natural elements. The different types of roofing materials offer unique style and color options that can complement or revitalize the existing architecture of a building. Roofing materials can be natural products such as thatch and slate, or man-made materials like metal, tile and concrete. The different roof types also provide varying degrees of durability.

The most popular types of residential roofing are single-membrane systems like EPDM, TPO and PVC. These offer a balance of affordability, durability and energy efficiency, as well as good water resistance. Asphalt shingles are another common type of roofing material. These are generally affordable, durable and come in a variety of colors and styles that can complement many architectural designs.

Wood shingles and shakes are more traditional roofing materials, offering a rustic look to your house. These materials are usually made from redwood or cedar. Shingles are thin wedge-shaped slabs of wood produced by precise sawing, while shakes are thicker and have a rough texture. Both offer a natural look to your house and can last up to 30 years, depending on the environmental conditions and maintenance.

Metal is a more modern roofing material that is resistant to extreme weather conditions, and it comes in a wide range of colors. Metal roofs are typically constructed from galvanized steel, aluminum-zinc alloy called Galvalume or aluminum. Standing seam metal roofs feature panels that lock into each other, providing strength and durability. These roofs are often adorned with decorative elements, like cupolas and bay windows, for added style.

Concrete and clay tiles are a great choice for homes located in areas that are exposed to high winds and storms, as they are designed to withstand the impact of debris. These roofing materials are fairly expensive, but they can add a beautiful aesthetic to your home and increase its value.

Rubber is a good alternative to other roofing materials, as it offers an environmentally-friendly and durable material. It is also a popular choice for flat roofs, as it can be molded to fit the shape of the structure and can be layered with other materials like gravel, tar or insulation.

Installation

A building’s roof is an important component that keeps inhabitants safe from the elements. Installing a new roof can be a lengthy process, and there are several steps involved. The first step is to prepare the site. This involves protecting surrounding areas with tarps, covering any landscaping, and positioning garbage cans so that they’re not blocked by debris falling from the roof. Safety measures must also be taken to ensure that workers are not injured during the re-roofing process.

Once the site is ready, the actual installation process begins. First, the existing shingles and underlayment are stripped off the roof. This is a messy and noisy process, and it can damage the underlying structure of the roof. Once the old materials are removed, the contractor will begin to waterproof the valleys, which are the areas where the roof slopes meet and form a “V” shape. This is done by adding in a layer of underlayment and felt paper, which is similar to how shingles are installed.

Next, a shingle course is laid. The contractors will start at the bottom of the roof and work their way up, overlapping each row by about six inches and nailing them down with a pattern that’s closer together near the edge of the shingle and then gets farther apart as you get toward the middle. The shingles are then trimmed to remove any excess and give the roof a clean finish. Other tasks that a roofing contractor may be responsible for include: setting up equipment and supplies, meeting with customers, and handling accounting matters.

Maintenance

A building’s roof is its primary barrier to the elements, and as such it must be inspected regularly for signs of damage and to catch small problems before they escalate. This maintenance is particularly important during the hot and humid summer months, when the potential for sun damage is greatest, and after major weather events, such as hurricanes and tornadoes, when leaks caused by melting ice and snow are most likely to occur.

There are also seasonal maintenance items to consider, such as trimming tree branches that hang over the roof. Branches that hang low are at risk of scraping the surface of shingles during heavy windstorms, and can weaken them over time. It’s a good idea to trim them on an annual basis, or more often if there is a lot of growth.

Keeping the roof free of debris is also important, because it can block water from reaching the roof drains and can cause localized ponding that can lead to premature roof damage. It’s a good idea to inspect and clean out the gutters at least twice per year, and more frequently in fall when leaves can accumulate.

Another important item to address is the integrity of the flashing around chimneys and vent pipes, as well as shingles and other components. The caulk around these is designed to limit water leaks, and should be inspected on a regular basis for cracking or peeling. In addition, it is a good idea to inspect the flashing for any areas where moss or lichen have accumulated, as they can indicate that the underlying material is decaying.

Repairs

Whether a storm damaged some shingles or you’re looking to repair leaks or other issues, the roof is a major part of your home and shouldn’t be ignored. Roofing repairs can range from replacing a few damaged shingles to extensive structural work. The cost will depend on the extent of the repair and the materials used. Generally, repairing damage rather than re-roofing will be less expensive.

To find out the best option for you and your roof, consider these points:

The Extent of the Damage

During a visual inspection, your professional will look for shingle damage like cracks or holes. These can be caused by weather, wear and tear, or even animals. Leaking shingles are the most common issue and should be repaired immediately. If left untreated, a small leak can lead to interior damage and mold problems.

Other issues that need to be addressed include:

Pipe Boots (Metal Pipe Collars)

Pipe collars are a key component of a roof’s structure. They help vent household equipment like dryers and water heaters by directing vapor and exhaust away from the house. They also seal the area where the pipe penetrates the roof, preventing water from entering. Repairing these components requires the careful removal of shingles and flashing without damaging adjoining areas.

The nature of the repair itself also impacts the cost. Detailed work or the use of higher-quality or specialty materials will increase the price.

Structural Changes

If you’re undergoing significant structural changes to your roof, such as adding solar panels, you may need a permit from the city. In addition, if your home is in a landmark district or is a historic building, special approvals and guidelines apply.

Re-Roofing

A re-roof is an alternative to replacement and consists of superimposing new shingles over the existing shingles. It’s typically a more economical choice, but it’s important to assess the condition of your existing shingles and support system in advance of this project. Additionally, re-roofing can void or shorten your warranty on your new shingles.

Stucco Remediation Specialists

Stucco is a beautiful material that can add to the curb appeal of any home. However, stucco can develop a series of issues that require remediation over time.

Moisture damage can cause musty odors and signs of mold growth. If this happens, a contractor should perform a thorough inspection to see if there are any underlying issues. Contact Stucco Remediation Specialists Philadelphia now!

Stucco is a popular building material for upscale homes due to its stunning color and detailed, up-close texture. However, this beauty comes at a price — it is highly susceptible to moisture damage and mold. If moisture penetrates stucco walls, it can cause rot, mold, and water damage throughout the home. It is essential to have your stucco inspected regularly and seek remediation if necessary.

Many factors, including poor installation or age of the product can cause moisture intrusion in your stucco. In addition, moisture is also often a result of improperly sealed windows and doors or surface joints. If you have moisture intrusion issues in your stucco, it’s important to take action right away to prevent further damage.

The difference between stucco repair and remediation is that repair addresses only surface blemishes, while remediation is a more thorough process. It tends to the underlying damage and delivers a permanent solution. It is important to understand the difference between repair and remediation, because if you hire a contractor to do repairs instead of addressing the core issue, the problem will most likely return.

To identify the source of the problem, a specialist will conduct a thorough inspection of your home and run moisture tests to assess the situation. They will look at the area around your windows and doors, as well as surface joints, to determine if there are any underlying issues.

After they’ve assessed your home, they will be able to create an appropriate solution. This may include repair, remediation, or removal and replacement. In some cases, it is best to replace your stucco with a more modern siding material.

Choosing the right stucco contractor is essential to protect your home from structural damage, mold, and water damage. Start by reading online reviews and comparing the reputations of several different companies. Once you have a shortlist, ask about their licensing and insurance to ensure they are qualified to perform the work safely and correctly. A reputable company will be happy to provide this information and answer any questions you have.

What is Remediation?

Stucco is a popular building material that has become one of the most common exterior options for new single-family homes in recent years. However, like all building materials, stucco doesn’t last forever and is susceptible to water damage over time. Whether the damage is caused by poor installation or a lack of waterproofing, it’s crucial to heed the advice of an expert and invest in remediation as soon as possible to avoid costly structural damage and health issues for you and your family.

Remediation is a more thorough process than repair and can save you money in the long run, preventing future problems down the road. The first step of the process involves a thorough inspection of your entire wall system to determine if there are any underlying issues, such as water intrusion or mold growth. Common places to check for moisture intrusion are around windows and in the corners of your home. Once any underlying issues are found, the next step is to remove the stucco layers down to the base layer of your wall system and then to properly address any internal damage that has occurred.

Once the underlying issue is addressed, your stucco will be replastered and then refinished with a high-quality product to ensure that your home is protected from further damage for the duration of its life. It’s worth mentioning that even if there are no visible signs of water damage, it is still possible to have significant problems behind your stucco, especially if there are a lot of black stains or musty odors in the area.

So, how do you know if your stucco is in need of repairs or remediation? Stucco repair is good for repairing small cosmetic damages and is generally less expensive than remediation. Remediation, on the other hand, is much more thorough and will prevent problems from recurring in the future by addressing the underlying issues that are causing them. This will end up saving you money in the long run and can also protect your home from serious damage down the line, including toxic black mold, rotting framing and water damage throughout the interior of your house.

Costs of Remediation

Stucco is a versatile material that transforms the look of a building while adding both curb appeal and value. This popular masonry product was once reserved for Spanish and Mediterranean style homes, but is now commonly used on buildings in many different styles. Its durability and unique beauty make it a great choice for both commercial and residential properties.

However, like any material, stucco can become damaged over time and may need to be remediated or replaced. If you have notice any damage, it is important to hire a Philadelphia stucco remediation specialist as soon as possible. Damaged stucco can lead to rot, water damage and mold. In addition, it can be an eyesore and detract from your property’s value.

Costs associated with remediation can vary widely depending on the nature and concentration of the contamination and the size and layout of the site. Remediation costs can also be affected by the presence of existing development on the site. In general, costs associated with remediation of sites that have been previously developed are higher than the costs for clean-up of undeveloped land.

Remediation costs can be separated into two broad categories: upfront costs and operations and maintenance (O&M) costs. Upfront costs include design, construction, and construction management expenses. O&M costs include the ongoing expense of operating and maintaining a treatment technology. These costs may include expenses for monitoring the performance of a technology, maintaining a site, and collecting groundwater, soil, and/or vapor samples to monitor progress toward remedial goals.

It is critical to consider all costs associated with remediation before selecting a treatment option. This includes preparing documents such as a remedial action plan, work plan, and health and safety plans; interfacing with regulatory agencies and obtaining permits; constructing/procuring infrastructure to supply electricity, water, and natural gas; mobilizing and installing process equipment; and performing startup and shakedown testing.

O&M costs may also include the expense of performing additional tests and inspections, monitoring for the presence of contaminants in air, water, and/or soil; the cost of maintaining a site, including fence lines and containment barriers; the cost of removing and disposing of waste; and the cost of maintaining records and reports. Remediation costs should be estimated to cover the entire cleanup period and include an amount for annual inflation.

Timeline of Remediation

Stucco is a popular home-building material that is used to make houses look more beautiful and appealing. It is a cement-based plaster that is applied to walls and surfaces of the house. It has become one of the most popular materials used in building new homes because it is easy to maintain and adds beauty to a property. However, just like anything else in a house, stucco can also develop problems over time that require stucco remediation. These problems include cracking, leaking water, mold or mildew buildup, and other issues that are caused by moisture damage. If these problems are not addressed quickly, they can lead to significant structural issues that need to be addressed by a professional.

There are a few telltale signs that you may need stucco remediation, including black stains around windows and other areas, discolored stucco, and musty or musky odors near the area of moisture damage. Those who notice these signs should immediately contact a stucco repair or remediation specialist to have the problem looked into. The longer you wait to have the issue dealt with, the worse it will get and can cost you more in the long run.

The primary difference between remediation and repair is that repairs only fix issues on the surface, whereas remediation deals with the underlying cause of the damage. For instance, if your stucco is damaged due to moisture intrusion, then repairs will only solve the surface damage and won’t address the underlying problem. Remediation involves completely replastering all exterior wall surfaces to tend to the underlying issues that are causing moisture damage to the stucco.

While some homeowners see the cost of stucco remediation as a large expense, it is important to remember that the costs are less than the costs of the damage that can occur if the problem is left unchecked. Additionally, well-executed remediation can add value to your home and increase its resale potential. It is also an investment in the health and safety of your family. If you think your stucco is impacted by serious problems, then it is important to take action right away to avoid further structural issues that will cost more to resolve.

How to Design a Kitchen Remodel to Increase Your Home’s Value

The kitchen is often the center of family life. It’s the place where friends and family gather to share a meal and spend time together.

Kitchen Remodel

A well-designed kitchen can increase your home’s resale value and improve daily living. However, some homeowners over-remodel their kitchens. This may lead to a costly and inefficient layout. For professional help, call Kitchen Remodel Near Me.

A well-executed kitchen remodel is one of the best ways to increase your home’s value. But before you get started, it’s important to understand what options are available and how much they cost.

Kitchen remodeling costs range from a simple refresh to a full-scale makeover. There are also different levels of ROI to consider. A minor kitchen update will typically return 72 percent of its original cost, according to Remodeling’s “Cost vs. Value Report.”

The most expensive element of a kitchen remodel is cabinets, which typically make up 29 percent of the overall cost. This is due to their size, materials and the fact that most homeowners want the latest styles and finishes in their cabinets.

A major kitchen remodel is typically a complete overhaul of the entire space, from floor to ceiling. This can include removing and replacing walls, re-routing plumbing and electrical, re-designing the layout of your kitchen, and even moving walls. It’s often the most labor-intensive and costly type of kitchen remodel, but it’s also the best way to add significant value to your home.

Design

Kitchen remodels involve a lot of choices, but the right design can make all the difference. A well-planned layout takes into account workflow and storage needs, as well as aesthetics. The goal is to create a kitchen that fits your lifestyle and makes cooking an enjoyable experience.

Consider the overall style you want for your kitchen and decide if you’d prefer a modern, traditional or transitional look. Then, choose a color palette and materials that reflect your personality and fit your lifestyle. For example, if you love to cook and entertain, you might want to opt for an open floor plan with a kitchen island and plenty of seating.

A major kitchen remodel involves relocating plumbing, electrical and walls, as well as installing new cabinets, countertops, appliances and flooring. The results can transform the look and feel of your home. This type of project can have a higher ROI than a minor kitchen remodel, which typically includes repainting or refacing cabinets and upgrading appliances.

To help narrow down your options, visit kitchen showrooms and home renovation stores to see layouts, designs and products in person. You can also seek inspiration online through websites. Attend neighborhood home tours to see how other homeowners have designed and decorated their kitchens.

Layout

A kitchen’s layout has a huge impact on its function and how it integrates into the rest of your home. Whether you like to cook and entertain in the space at the same time or use it exclusively for one task, your choice of storage solutions, appliances, and even colors and finishes will be affected by the layout.

There are many different kitchen floor plans to choose from, but a tried-and-true model is the kitchen work triangle, a popular design that positions your refrigerator, sink, and stove within easy reach of each other. This classic layout is great for small spaces and works well in open-plan homes, too.

Other kitchen layout ideas include the galley kitchen, which has parallel runs of cabinetry on two opposing walls. This efficient, lean layout is ideal for small spaces and single-cook kitchens. It’s also easy to customize, with no troublesome corner cabinets to accommodate.

For larger spaces, consider an L-shaped layout or a U-shaped kitchen. With these options, you can adapt the kitchen to the dimensions of your room, ensuring that there’s enough space for an island or seating area. Maximize the storage potential of these layouts with a combination of closed and open storage, like this L-shaped kitchen from Desiree Burns Interiors.

Materials

The materials used in a kitchen remodel can have a huge impact on the aesthetic of your kitchen. From the durability of granite countertops to the elegance of solid wood cabinets, selecting the right materials is critical to creating a functional and aesthetically pleasing space.

Whether you’re looking to add some color to your kitchen or want to incorporate a more traditional element, there are endless options available. Some of the most popular trends include painted cabinetry in blues, reds, greens, or yellows; double islands (one for food prep, one for casual dining); smart appliances; and butcherblock countertops (a natural alternative to quartz).

While some material choices may require more maintenance than others, it’s important to consider the long-term benefits of each upgrade you make. A well-executed kitchen remodel can significantly boost your home’s value, and prospective homebuyers often prioritize homes with modernized kitchens.

It’s also worth remembering that even if you don’t plan to sell your home anytime soon, a modernized kitchen can still increase the enjoyment you get from your home and help reduce the time you spend on household chores. By incorporating updates that meet your needs and reflect your personal style, you’ll be able to create a kitchen that is truly your own. Ultimately, a kitchen remodel is an investment in the heart of your home that will pay dividends for years to come.

Appliances

As you start shopping for appliances to include in your kitchen remodel, consider features like energy efficiency, quality, size and capacity, warranty, and style. For example, if you plan on using your kitchen as a home office or entertaining space, it might be worth upgrading to hidden appliances, such as microwave ovens that blend seamlessly with cabinetry, for a sleeker aesthetic. Alternatively, consider state-of-the-art splurge-worthy appliances, such as ones that brew coffee or tea instantly or allow for steaming or boiling water at the push of a button.

Lighting is another essential element to consider when revamping your kitchen. LED models are much more energy-efficient than older models, helping you save money and make your kitchen a safer environment to work in. You may also want to invest in task lighting, which provides illumination for specific tasks, and mood lighting, which creates a warm, welcoming atmosphere.

Ultimately, the most important part of any kitchen is how it functions for you and your family. If what worked for the previous homeowner – or passed by builder standards – doesn’t suit your lifestyle, remodeling is an opportunity to design your dream kitchen. Plus, a thoughtfully remodeled kitchen can add significant value to your property as homebuyers prioritize properties with modernized kitchens. Invest in a custom kitchen remodel, and you’ll enjoy a kitchen that suits your lifestyle for years to come.

Finishing Touches

Once you’ve decided on a layout and chosen the materials, cabinets, and appliances for your kitchen remodel it’s time to consider the small details that make your new space unique. Kitchen finishing touches include things like backsplashes, decorative accents, and custom hardware. Adding these elements can add an extra level of personality to your kitchen design and tie your whole room together.

Backsplashes are a great way to add texture and color to your kitchen. Choose a tile style that complements your countertops and cabinets to create a cohesive look. You can even opt for a statement backsplash for an extra pop of color that really stands out.

Another kitchen finishing touch is window casings. These aren’t usually the focus of a kitchen but can make all the difference. You can also opt for crown molding to create a more upscale look and draw the eye upward, which can make your kitchen feel bigger.

Cabinet handles and hardware are a chance to really show off your design style. There are so many different shapes, colors, and styles to choose from that there’s sure to be a combination that fits your aesthetic.

Kitchen finishing touches can be a fun part of the design process and can help to create a kitchen that will feel like home for years to come. But be careful not to overdo it with these finishing touches – it’s best to plan them in as early as possible so that your kitchen redesign will work seamlessly and effectively.

Custom Blinds and Shades for Style and Functionality

Custom Blinds and Shades are window treatments that are made to your specific window dimensions, ensuring a perfect fit and a polished look. They are available in a wide array of fabrics, textures and colors.

Blinds

With easy-to-adjust slats, classic venetian blinds exude sophistication and elegance while providing control over light. Try Bali wood or faux wood blinds to add warmth to a room. For professional help, contact Custom Blinds and Shades KY.

Custom blinds and shades can be made to perfectly fit your windows, eliminating gaps that can let in light and reduce energy efficiency. They can also be designed to complement your room’s aesthetics and reflect your personal style, which is often difficult or impossible with ready-made options.

Window blinds can be created in a range of styles, from the traditional appeal of slatted wood blinds to the clean lines and simple elegance of classic roman shades. Sliding panel blinds offer a sleek, contemporary look for wide windows and can even serve as room dividers. Other window treatment styles include pleated, cellular and solar shades, giving you unlimited possibilities for both aesthetics and function.

In addition to the ability to perfectly fit your window, custom blinds and shades can be crafted from materials that are more suited to your environment than off-the-shelf alternatives. This can help them resist damage and deterioration, making them more durable over time. They can also be made to reduce glare and block out harmful UV rays, which can protect your furniture, art and skin from sun damage.

The custom-made nature of these window treatments also means that they can be fitted with features that enhance their performance. For example, if you live in an area with high humidity levels, moisture-resistant materials can help prevent warping and deterioration. You can also choose to add motorization to your blinds, allowing you to control them with the touch of a button and program them to open and close at specific times throughout the day.

The sheer range of customization options for window blinds and shades can make your home feel truly unique and a true reflection of your personal style. You can even pair them with draperies to create a layered look that offers privacy when you want it and natural light when you don’t. With so many choices for style, functionality and enhancing your home’s beauty, custom window treatments are an excellent choice for any home in New Jersey.

Light Filtration

The window treatments you select can have a powerful impact on the overall look and feel of your living space. From regulating indoor temperature to elevating style and ambiance, the right window blinds and shades can transform your home for the better. However, the vast array of styles, materials, operating mechanisms and light filtering options available can be overwhelming for many homeowners. It is important to evaluate your needs and understand what each option has to offer before settling on any window blinds or shades.

Whether you want to bring a natural touch to your decor or create an airy and delicate ambiance, the variety of window shade fabrics allows you to find the perfect look. Sheer fabrics envelop your windows with a soft glow, while semi-opaque fabrics reduce glare and block harmful UV rays. Some shades also come with optional room-darkening liners to add a layer of darkness to your room.

For a sleek and minimalist aesthetic, consider roller blinds. These simple window coverings feature a single piece of fabric attached to a roller mechanism, making them easy to operate. You can choose from an assortment of colors to suit your space. They also work to keep sunlight at bay and block out the outside world, offering excellent privacy.

If you’re looking for a more traditional look, Roman shades are a good choice. These window treatments consist of a single piece of fabric that folds evenly when raised, creating soft horizontal pleats for a textured and structured appearance. They are a great option for bedrooms and living rooms, adding a sense of luxury to your interior.

Cellular shades are another popular window treatment option for their insulation and light control capabilities. Their honeycomb-shaped design traps heat and cold air to save energy year-round, while their crisp pleats add a sophisticated appeal to any home.

For a more formal look, you can opt for wood woven shades. Crafted from renewable materials like bamboo, jute and reeds, these eco-friendly window blinds allow just the right amount of sunlight to filter in while reducing glare and blocking harmful UV rays. They also provide moderate privacy. Woven wood shades can be upgraded to blackout liners, which allow you to darken your room for added privacy and comfort.

Privacy

Window treatments enhance home décor while regulating privacy, glare, temperature and ambiance. While off-the-shelf options can get the job done, custom blinds and shades offer important benefits that can significantly improve your living space.

Custom window shades are designed to fit your windows precisely. Unlike ready-made blinds that are assembled in a limited number of sizes before they’re sold, custom window shades are made to order. This ensures that they are a perfect fit and eliminates gaps and uneven coverage that detract from their appearance and reduce their functionality. By being a custom fit, they are also better at managing light and privacy and improving insulating capabilities.

Shades come in a wide range of transparency and color options. Sheer blinds, which allow a subtle view of the outside while diffusing natural light, are popular with homeowners who want to enjoy the sunshine without sacrificing privacy. For a more traditional look, woven wood shades (sometimes called matchstick blinds) provide the classic elegance of window coverings with the added benefit of privacy and sound reduction. Blackout shades are another option for those who prioritize privacy. Made from thick material, they block out light and the outside world completely at night – making them ideal for bedrooms or media rooms.

Choosing the right type of blinds for your windows and doors will depend on how you use each room. If you’re looking for privacy at night, a blackout blind is the best choice. For daytime privacy, a sheer or woven wood shade offers varying degrees of translucency to let in just the right amount of light.

Custom window shades are also available in a wide variety of colors, patterns and textures to coordinate with existing furniture and home fabrics. Additionally, child safety features are available to eliminate strangulation hazards in homes with young children. Whether you’re searching for the simple beauty of roller shades, the timeless elegance of soft Roman shades or the sophisticated energy efficiency of cellular shades, i9 Blinds can help you find the perfect privacy solution to elevate your living space. Contact us today to schedule a complimentary consultation.

Energy Efficiency

Investing in energy-efficient window treatments is a smart move for any homeowner. They can save money over time by reducing energy costs, and they can also create a more comfortable living environment by regulating home temperatures. Additionally, energy-efficient blinds and shades provide an eco-friendly option that reduces your carbon footprint and contributes to a sustainable environment.

Custom blinds are made to fit your windows perfectly, which eliminates gaps around the edges that can compromise their ability to insulate your home. Plus, custom blinds are often made with high-quality materials that make them more durable than ready-made options and less prone to problems like broken slats or malfunctioning cords.

One of the most common sources of energy loss in a home is through its windows, which allow heat to escape during the winter and sunlight to overheat rooms during the summer. With a combination of the right materials, design, and installation, however, you can mitigate these issues and improve your home’s energy efficiency with custom window treatments.

Some custom blinds and shades are designed with built-in insulation that helps them keep homes at more stable temperatures. For example, cellular shades feature an internal honeycomb construction that traps air and provides an effective barrier against cold drafts. Some cellular shade models also offer the option of automation, which allows you to set a seasonally optimized schedule that opens and closes them at specific times of day or night.

In addition to insulating your home, some custom shades and blinds are equipped with reflective surfaces that can further enhance their energy-saving capabilities. These surfaces help to reflect light away from your window in the winter and deflect sun’s rays in the summer, which makes them especially ideal for homes in climates with extreme temperature fluctuations.