Energy-Efficient Blinds & Shades for Colorado’s Climate
If you’ve lived in Colorado for more than one season, you already know how extreme our temperature swings can be. We get sun-soaked afternoons, snowy mornings, cold drafts, and high-altitude UV exposure, sometimes all in the same week. That's why we came up with a complete guide to the most energy-efficient blinds and shades for Colorado’s climate, based on real installs we do every day.
Homeowners from Colorado Springs, Monument, Black Forest, Falcon, Fountain, Manitou Springs, and Castle Rock always ask us:
“What are the best blinds or shades to keep my home warm in winter and cool in summer?”
The good news is there are window treatments designed specifically to help with heat, cold, insulation, and energy use. Even better, some of them dramatically improve comfort without blocking your views or darkening your home.
Below is your ultimate guide so you can make the best decision on what window treatment to use for your home.
The Most Energy-Efficient Window Treatments for Colorado
1. Cellular (Honeycomb) Shades: The #1 Energy-Efficient Choice in Colorado
If your priority is comfort and energy savings, cellular shades are unbeatable.
We install more cellular shades than any other product in Colorado Springs for one reason: they work in every season.
Cellular shades trap air in honeycomb-shaped pockets, creating insulation between the window and your room. These shades offer these benefits:
- Reduce heat loss in winter
- Reduce heat gain in summer
- Lower energy bills
- Make drafty rooms feel instantly warmer
- Optional double-cell construction for extreme performance
Where cellular shades work best
- Bedrooms
- Living rooms
- Home offices
- Large picture windows
- Older homes with drafty trim
We assisted a couple in Black Forest who had a sun-facing living room that was too hot in summer and too cold in winter. We installed double-cell cellular shades, and they noticed a measurable difference the first week. There is less furnace activity in the evenings and less AC cycling in the afternoons.
2. Solar Shades for Heat Control & UV Blocking (Without Losing Your View)
Solar shades are perfect for Colorado homes that get strong, direct sunlight, especially west or south-facing windows overlooking mountains, open space, or the city. Solar shades are energy-efficient because they:
- Reduce solar heat gain
- Block UV rays
- Keep rooms cooler
- Minimize glare
- Protect flooring and furniture
Also, Colorado homeowners love solar shades because they preserve views. Homeowners get comfort and the scenery.
Best openness levels for efficiency
- 3% → maximum glare & heat control
- 5% → great views with balanced performance
Solar shades are ideal for:
- Living rooms
- Kitchens
- Home offices
- Sunrooms
3. Roller Shades with Thermal or Blackout Liners for Bedrooms & Media Rooms
Not all roller shades are created equal. Thermal-backed or blackout roller shades offer amazing insulation and heat reduction.
Why are roller shades effective
- Thick backing blocks drafts
- Prevents heat transfer
- Provides full darkness (great for sleep)
- Excellent for high-sun windows
Where they shine
- Bedrooms
- Home theaters
- Nurseries
- Large sliding doors
Many homes in Falcon and Peyton choose this combination because their big windows get intense morning or afternoon sun.
4. Roman Shades: Best for Style + Insulation
Roman shades offer both beauty and energy savings, especially when paired with a thermal lining.
Why they work
- Heavy fabric adds insulation
- Lined options block drafts
- Elegant, timeless design
- Works well in homes that combine modern + rustic styles
Best rooms
- Dining rooms
- Bedrooms
- Living rooms
- Homes with tall ceilings
If you want energy efficiency that doesn’t look like energy efficiency, Roman shades are the way to go.
5. Plantation Shutters for Blocking Drafts
Shutters are more than a style choice, they actually help seal out cold air and regulate heat.
Why shutters are energy-efficient
- Thick materials block drafts
- Adjustable louvers control sunlight
- Long-lasting investment
- Adds value to a home
Best placements for plantation shutters
- Front rooms
- Street-facing windows
- Older Colorado Springs homes with draftier frames
- Mountain-style interiors
A client in Manitou Springs told us after their shutter install, “The draft we always felt by the big bay window disappeared.”
6. Layered Treatments: The Secret Weapon for Colorado Homes
For many Colorado homes, layering provides the best performance. They create multiple insulation barriers, add visual softness, provide more flexibility for light control, and help rooms maintain stable temperatures.
Here are our top-performing combinations of layered treatments
- Cellular shades + drapery: Maximum insulation
- Solar shade + blackout roller: Best for heat and privacy
- Roman shade + side panels: Beautiful + functional
Layering is especially effective in older homes near Old Colorado City or
Downtown Colorado Springs.
Which Window Treatments Are Best for Colorado’s Four Seasons?
Winter
- Double-cell cellular shades
- Shutters
- Roman shades
Summer
- Solar shades
- Roller shades
- Zebra shades
Year-round
- Cellular shades
- Layered treatments
Colorado’s climate demands versatility, and these options deliver.
Common Mistakes Colorado Homeowners Make (And How to Avoid Them)
1. Choosing big-box store blinds that aren’t rated for insulation
Many homeowners buy blinds from big-box stores because they seem convenient, but these products usually offer little to no insulation. In Colorado’s climate, that means they do almost nothing to reduce drafts or temperature swings. Custom options perform far better and last longer.
2. Skipping UV protection
Colorado’s high-altitude sun is much stronger than people realize, and it can fade flooring, furniture, and artwork quickly. Without proper UV protection, rooms heat up faster and become uncomfortable during peak sunlight hours. Solar or light-filtering shades help solve these issues.
3. Installing the wrong color or openness level
Color and fabric choice dramatically affect how a window treatment performs. Dark solar shades absorb heat and can warm up a room, while lighter shades reflect more sunlight and stay cooler. Openness levels also control how much light, heat, and privacy you get.
4. Ignoring window direction
Not all windows face the same challenges. A west-facing window needs strong glare control, while a north-facing window may need more insulation. Understanding each room’s sun exposure helps you select the right product for comfort and performance.
5. DIY installation on large shades
Large or tall windows require precise measuring and professional mounting. Heavy shades can sag, bind, or fail early if installed incorrectly. Professional installation ensures smooth operation, proper alignment, and long-term durability.
Ready to Make Your Colorado Home More Comfortable?
If your home has hot rooms, cold corners, or energy bills that jump every season, we can help. We’ll look at your windows, sunlight exposure, and comfort needs, then recommend the most energy-efficient options for your style and budget.
Book your FREE in-home consultation today, and let’s make your home comfortable every month of the year.
FAQs on Energy-Efficient Window Treatments in Colorado
What’s the best option for cold, drafty windows?
Double-cell cellular shades provide excellent insulation because their layered pockets trap air and create a thermal barrier. Plantation shutters are also effective since they form a tight seal that blocks drafts. Both options make rooms feel warmer without relying solely on your heating system.
What’s the best treatment for heat and glare?
Solar shades with a 3–5% openness level are ideal for managing strong sunlight and glare. They significantly reduce heat gain while still allowing natural light into the room. This makes them perfect for west- and south-facing windows in Colorado.
Do energy-efficient shades really help with bills?
Yes, energy-efficient shades can quickly reduce your home’s heating and cooling needs. Many homeowners notice fewer temperature swings and less furnace or AC usage within the first few weeks. Over time, these improvements translate into real savings.
What’s the best all-around choice for window treatments??
Cellular shades are the most versatile option for Colorado’s climate because they offer both insulation and excellent light control. They help keep homes comfortable year-round, regardless of temperature changes. This makes them a reliable solution for almost any room.
Can I keep my views and still block heat?
Yes, solar shades are designed to reduce heat and UV exposure while keeping your outdoor views clear. They filter harsh sunlight without making the room dark. This makes them a top choice for mountain-facing homes or large picture windows.
