Weathering the Storm: How Boston Homeowners Can Protect Their Homes with Smart Window Treatment Choices
Living in Boston means experiencing some of the most dramatic weather extremes in the United States. From powerful nor’easters that bring heavy snow and destructive ocean waves to summer heat waves with temperatures soaring into the 90s, Boston residents face heat index temperatures of 95-96 degrees during heat emergencies and severe winter storms that are a regular part of New England life. The right window treatments can make the difference between a comfortable, energy-efficient home and one that struggles against Mother Nature’s fury.
Understanding Boston’s Weather Challenges
Boston has already experienced average temperature increases of almost 3.5°F, with the last decade bringing more hot days and nights than any decade in the previous 50 years. Looking ahead, the number of days over 90°F will increase from a historical average of 10 days per year to as many as 46 days per year by the 2070s. Meanwhile, nor’easters typically occur one or more times each year, sometimes producing both rain and snow, occasionally accompanied by thunder and lightning.
These extreme conditions create unique challenges for homeowners. Windows allow sunlight to enter homes, quickly warming interior spaces through solar heat gain, where solar radiation passes through glass and heats objects inside, causing them to radiate warmth into rooms. During winter storms, poorly insulated windows become sources of heat loss and uncomfortable drafts.
Energy-Efficient Solutions for Summer Heat
When Boston’s summer heat waves strike, the right window treatments become essential for maintaining comfort and controlling energy costs. During summer days, closing draperies on windows receiving direct sunlight prevents heat gain, with studies showing that medium-colored draperies with white-plastic backings can reduce heat gains by 33%.
Cellular shades are among the best New England window treatment styles, featuring a unique honeycomb design that traps heat inside cross sections, reducing heat conduction through windows. In summer, lowering these two-layer shades during the day blocks more of the sun’s rays and energy, keeping rooms cool.
For maximum heat protection, covering windows that receive morning or afternoon sun with drapes, shades, awnings or louvers is crucial, as outdoor awnings or louvers can reduce heat entering a home by up to 80 percent. According to the Department of Energy, awnings can reduce solar heat gain by 65% on south-facing windows and 77% on west-facing windows, demonstrating the importance of considering window orientation.
Storm Protection and Winter Insulation
Boston’s notorious nor’easters demand window treatments that provide both insulation and storm protection. Heavy drapes serve as excellent options for New England homes, trapping and separating inside and outside air to prevent large heat transfers. In summer, the heavy fabric blocks light and heat, while in winter, warm air inside stays separate from cool windows, raising average house temperatures by several degrees.
When drawn during cold weather, most conventional draperies can reduce heat loss from warm rooms up to 10% and increase thermal comfort. For maximum effectiveness, draperies should be hung as close to windows as possible, fall onto windowsills or floors, and include cornices at the top with sealed sides and overlapping centers.
Storm windows provide an additional layer of protection. These second windows fit in front of existing windows, offering extra protection by creating a pocket of air between interior windows, reducing drafts and protecting against bad weather elements. Aluminum storm windows can pay for themselves in about 4-7 years through energy savings while reducing condensation, noise, and helping balance indoor temperatures.
Professional Installation Makes the Difference
When it comes to protecting your Boston home from extreme weather, professional installation and quality products are essential. This is where experienced local companies like Mohawk Shade & Blind make a significant difference. Since 1986, this Boston-based company has been crafting window solutions that transform houses into homes, helping homeowners choose perfect fits for their spaces to create harmony and comfort for families.
Located in Cambridge, Mohawk Shade & Blind is a locally owned and operated company with over 30+ years of industry experience, offering commercial and residential window covering installations. They specialize in blinds, shades and indoor shutter installation, priding themselves on work quality and commitment to outstanding results while building lasting relationships and guaranteeing customer satisfaction.
Smart Technology for Modern Homes
Today’s window treatments go beyond basic functionality. Modern solutions offer energy efficiency to save money while keeping homes comfortable year-round, UV protection to prevent fading and damage to furniture and floors, tailored style to reflect unique tastes, and increased home value through high-quality custom designs.
For homeowners seeking the ultimate in convenience and energy efficiency, motorized solutions provide precise control over light and heat management throughout the day. While 75% of residential window coverings remain in the same position daily, strategic operation throughout the day maximizes benefits – opening coverings in winter mornings for solar heating and keeping them closed in summer to reduce heat gain.
Making the Right Choice for Your Boston Home
Choosing the right window treatments for Boston’s extreme weather requires understanding both the challenges and solutions available. Whether you’re dealing with scorching summer heat waves or preparing for the next major nor’easter, quality shades and blinds Boston homeowners can depend on make all the difference in comfort, energy efficiency, and protection.
Both cellular shades and heavy drapes offer great solutions for New England’s shifting scale of hot and cold weather while keeping areas looking stylish and new. Whether it’s a Boston high rise, suburban home, or waterfront apartment, the best time to invest in weather-appropriate treatments is after summer heat but before winter sets in.
The investment in quality window treatments pays dividends in comfort, energy savings, and peace of mind. When the next heat wave hits or nor’easter approaches, you’ll be prepared with window treatments designed to handle whatever Boston’s weather throws your way.