When people think about improving energy efficiency in winter, they often focus on boilers, insulation or new windows. Curtains, however, are rarely mentioned, despite playing a significant role in reducing heat loss and improving comfort during colder months.
In reality, well-designed curtains can make a measurable difference to how warm a room feels, particularly in the evenings and overnight when temperatures drop.
The Science Behind Curtains and Heat Retention
Heat loss through windows occurs in several ways: conduction through the glass, cold air movement around frames, and radiant heat loss from warm rooms to cold surfaces. Curtains help reduce all three.
When closed, curtains create a still layer of air between the fabric and the window. This trapped air acts as insulation, slowing the movement of heat from inside to outside. Heavier fabrics and specialist linings increase this effect, making curtains a practical thermal barrier rather than just a decorative element. This is especially noticeable in older homes, bay windows and rooms with large expanses of glass.
Why Not All Curtains Perform the Same
Lightweight, unlined curtains offer minimal insulation. For winter performance, fabric choice and construction matter. Features that improve energy efficiency include:
- Thermal or interlined linings.
- Dense, tightly woven fabrics.
- Full coverage of the window and surrounding wall.
- A close fit at the sides and bottom.
Thermal curtains are designed specifically with these factors in mind, helping to reduce draughts and cold spots around windows.
Fit Is Just as Important as Fabric
Even the best thermal fabric will underperform if the curtains do not fit properly. Gaps at the sides or bottom allow warm air to escape and cold air to circulate. Made-to-measure curtains are particularly effective because they:
- Fully cover the window area.
- Reduce air movement at the edges.
- Improve both insulation and appearance.
Floor-length curtains that extend slightly beyond the window frame offer the best results, especially in living rooms and bedrooms.
Using Curtains Correctly in Winter
Curtains are most effective when used strategically:
- Open them during daylight hours to benefit from natural warmth.
- Close them as soon as it gets dark.
- Keep them fully closed overnight.
This simple routine can noticeably improve comfort without increasing heating use.
A Subtle but Effective Upgrade
Curtains may not seem like a technical energy-saving solution, but their impact should not be underestimated. With the right materials and fit, they offer a cost-effective way to retain heat, improve comfort and make living spaces feel warmer throughout winter.
At Brighton Sunblinds, made-to-measure curtains are designed to deliver both visual quality and practical performance, ensuring your home looks good and stays warm when it matters most.
Why Choose Brighton Sunblinds?
As one of the leading suppliers of curtains in Brighton, we take pride in delivering a truly personal service. Our team offers a free home consultation where we bring samples to your door, take precise measurements, and help you select fabrics and finishes that suit your space perfectly.
Every curtain we create is made to measure, expertly fitted, and built to last giving you the perfect combination of style, comfort, and quality.
Book Your Free Home Consultation
Ready to find the perfect curtains for your Brighton home? Let our experienced team at Brighton Sunblinds guide you every step of the way. Book your free home consultation today and discover why homeowners across Sussex trust us as their preferred suppliers of curtains.
📞 Call us on 01273 608208 or visit brightonsunblinds.co.uk to book your free home consultation.