Best Window Treatments to Keep Heat Out in The Summer

Updated: 4/8/2026

Are you struggling to keep your home cool and comfortable throughout the summer? Your current window treatments might be the culprit. Outdated window treatments, such as vinyl blinds and curtains, don't provide adequate insulation and aren't ideal for those living in extreme climates. Instead, you'll want to switch to a more energy-efficient alternative. Making the switch will help regulate indoor temperatures and even lower your monthly energy bill.

In this article, we'll explore the best window treatments to keep heat out, so you can keep energy costs low, and lessen the strain on your area’s overworked electricity grid during summer months. Here's everything you need to know:

The Best Blinds and Shades to Keep Heat Out

If you're struggling to regulate indoor temperatures and overusing your AC, it's time to upgrade your window treatments. Investing in new window treatments is the most effective way to keep your home cool and comfortable all summer. Here are the top five best window coverings to keep heat out.

Cellular Shades

Cellular shades feature a distinctive honeycomb pattern of cells that acts as a heat-trapping barrier between your window and the interior. Cellular shades are available in single or double-cell patterns. The fabric can also be customized in four opacity levels, from sheer to blackout, giving you more control over light and privacy.

Solar Shades

Your windows will stay cool and look cool, with modern, streamlined solar shades. Solar shades are rated by the openness factor. The scale can range from 1% (tightly woven fabrics that let in little light) to 14% (a looser weave that allows more light to enter). Adding KOOLBLACK® Technology gives you even more power to block light, which reduces heat and glare.

These heat-reducing window shades are also exceptional at protecting your home’s interior from UV rays. Choose from a vast lineup of colors and styles, as well as valance, facia, and headrail options to create a stunning look.

Roman Shades

Roman shades are a sophisticated style that provides sunlight filtering. They work much like regular shades but are made from durable, appealing fabrics that help insulate your home from scorching outdoor temperatures. You can also have Roman shades lined with blackout fabric for better light control and privacy. These heat-reducing window shades are available with top-down/bottom-up lift options, providing flexibility to position the shades to reduce heat.

Wood Blinds

Did you know wood acts as a natural insulator? Wood blinds can help regulate indoor temperatures and block out the sun. The style has a classic appeal, making it a top choice for more traditional interior designs. While these blinds can keep heat out during the summer, they don't help retain heat as well during the winter, which is something to consider if you live in a cooler climate.

Drapery

Drapery, like Roman shades, offers cooling by absorbing heat through heat-absorbing fabric. Custom drapery accommodates a range of window sizes and design sensibilities, with specially tailored widths and lengths. If you want to block heat from windows with style, coordinate custom drapery with shades or blinds for a deluxe window treatment that is visually powerful.

Tips For Keeping Your Space Cool and Comfortable This Summer

Comfort should always be a top priority. Here are three tips you can use to ensure your window treatments work for you:

Invest in Motorization

If you don’t want to think about opening and closing your window treatments in the summer or any other time, consider opting for automatic or motorized window treatments. Motorized window treatments feature a small motor installed in the stack, so you can control your window treatments without having to lift more than a finger. The motor is controlled via an app on your smartphone, a wand, a wall switch, or a remote control, and can be manipulated with a simple touch.

Automated Your Window Coverings

Home-automated window treatments give you the control of motorization, but with the freedom to set your window treatments on a timer. Get drapery or shades that close automatically before you get ready for bed, then quietly open before your alarm goes off, letting you gently wake to natural sunlight.

Pair Drapery With Insulated Window Treatments

If you like the look of drapery but need insulation for your space, consider pairing shades with drapes or curtains. For example, sheer drapery softly filters natural light, providing your space with a soft summer glow. If you pair sheer drapery with cellular shades or solar shades, you can maximize the energy efficiency while still achieving that summer-time feel.

Find Shades and Blinds to Block out Sun and Heat

If you're tired of dealing with daily temperature fluctuations, it's time to upgrade your outdated window treatments. At Stoneside, we specialize in custom-made shades, blinds, and drapery. When you're ready, a designer on our team will visit your home and provide expert recommendations. They'll walk you through different light-filtering fabrics, shade styles, and materials available.

Once you decide on the best window coverings to keep heat out, our professional installers will install your new window treatments.

Reach out to Stoneside and schedule your free consultation.