While we’re all enjoying some respite from last weekend’s heatwave, another rise in temperatures is on the horizon as the July heatwave is set to begin this weekend. And one very effective – yet unknown-to-many – method of keeping your home cool in a heatwave is the ‘window stacking’ method.
You’re probably wondering right now – what is a window stack? It’s a fair question. It is a Consider window treatments which combine and layer several different styles of window dressing. And it just so happens that it does wonders in keeping the heat out during the summer.
(Image credit: Future plc/Colin Poole)
How does window stacking work?
“Window stacking is an effective technique for controlling the temperature of a home, especially during a heatwave,” says Kate O’Brien, style consultant. Swift Direct Blinds. ‘It uses a layering of window treatments viz curtains And considering blinds, fabrics and styles to help keep your home cool.’
Although the window stacking method is fairly new, this approach is already being adopted by many as we all learn about various cooling hacks, including expert advice. Keep blinds and curtains drawn during heatwaves to stay cool.
(Image credit: Future plc/David Giles)
‘We’ve definitely seen a growing interest in what people are calling “window stacks” – layering different types of window dressing together to better manage light, temperature and privacy,’ says Victoria Robinson, style and trend expert. Hilary’s.
‘It’s something I often recommend, especially during extreme weather like a heatwave. I’m a big advocate of layering because no single window dressing can do it all. By combining styles, keep the room cool and shaded when you want it, but also light when you want it.’
(Image credit: Future plc/David Giles)
How to Build a Window Stack – What Do You Need?
‘The method works best with two or three different covers to give maximum control over your home’s temperature. What’s particularly great about window stacking is that it can also look incredibly stylish when done right, adding texture and dimension to a room,’ Kate et al. Says Swift Direct Blinds.
And these elements are included for an effective and stylish window stack.
(Image credit: Future plc/Siobhan Doran)
1. Start with slatted blinds
Whether it’s Venetian blinds or another style of slatted blinds – shutters work too – these will be your first line against sunlight and the resulting heat.
‘These blinds have adjustable slats that allow you to tilt and redirect sunlight away from your space rather than blocking it completely,’ explains Helen O’Connor, Product and Trends Manager. 247 blinds. ‘This helps reduce glare and prevents rooms from overheating, particularly in south-facing rooms where sunlight is more intense throughout the day.’
(Image credit: Future plc/Katie Lee)
Alternatively, you can opt for a double roller blind which is a two-in-one type of solution. ‘Double roller blinds are designed with a dual purpose – to blackout a room at night and let light in during the day. They have two layers of fabric on one bracket, allowing you to switch between a full privacy layer and a blackout layer. Double roller blinds also have the added benefit of greater insulation, with the double layer keeping rooms cooler in summer and warmer in winter,’ says Kate of Swift Direct Blinds.
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Shutters give any space a Mediterranean, old-world charm. And these from Next are custom-made for your home windows.
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Housing Wooden White 50mm Slate Venetian Tape Blind
Boasting over 100 five-star reviews, these venetian blinds are a customer favorite. Made of real wood, this versatile white design will fit any space.
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Umbra Linen White Double Roller Blind
Equipped with a full blind and blackout blind, these double roller blinds cover all the necessary bases.
2. A perfect sound curtain layer
The next step is to lighten but adding a light acoustic curtain helps block some heat while still looking very chic.
‘Your second level should soften the light and help regulate the temperature without making the room feel dark and heavy and make your home feel light and airy. For this, sheer or light curtains or drapes work perfectly without compromising the overall style of the room. This light fabric will help diffuse harsh sunlight and reduce hot air circulation while still allowing natural light to flow through the space, ideal for keeping a room bright but comfortable during daylight hours,’ says Helen of 247 Blinds.
Argos Home
Linen effect slot top voile curtain
If you prefer something simple and budget-friendly, look no further than these Argos voile curtains with a linen effect.
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Natural Blanket Stitch Edge Slot Top Voile Unlined Sheer Panel Curtain
This voile curtain from Next may be everyone’s favorite piece. The simple detail of contrasting blanket stitch trim instantly enhances this design.
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Lucia Stripe Natural Slot Top Voile Pair
If you love stripes like I do, this sheer voile curtain from Dunelum with a subtle pinstripe pattern will be right up your street.
3. Add thermal blackout blinds or curtains
Thermal curtains are traditionally associated with the colder months to help keep the heat in and the cold out. But it works the other way, too, and Thermal curtains can keep the heat out in summer.
‘Thermal and blackout curtains are the heaviest, and are usually the outer layer in the window stack. We often associate “thermals” with retaining heat, but the barrier they create also blocks heat and sunlight in the warmer months – as well as preventing already cold air from escaping the home,’ confirms Kate from Swift Direct Blinds.
‘It’s important to choose a light-coloured fabric as it absorbs less sunlight than a dark-coloured blind,’ she adds.
La Redoute
Thermal blackout curtain, Exurie
Last week, shoppers were going crazy Dunelm’s temporary blackout blind. But if you want to achieve the same cool effect but in style, this is what I would recommend.
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Loch Blackout/Thermal Roller Blind
If you’re looking for blackout thermal blinds for curtains, this customer favorite design from John Lewis would be my top pick because it comes in so many different colors to choose from.
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Natural light blackout/thermal curtains
If you want to Choose designer looking curtains For those who won’t break the bank, it doesn’t get much better than this heavyweight, sophisticated design from Next.
‘A well-thought-out window stack means you can respond to changing temperatures throughout the day rather than relying on one solution,’ concludes Victoria et Hilarys. It’s a stylish approach, but it’s also very practical, especially as summer continues to heat up.’
