Warm Company: Insulated window coverings can save energy

Fabric covered insulated window coverings can be made using variousbatting type materials for insulation. Ideally, the insulating sandwichshould include a radiant energy reflective layer such as foil and a vapor barrier to reduce condensation on the glass, according to Jim Chumbley of The Warm Company."An average home can lose 30% or more of its heating energy through its
windows, even if double pane glass or storm windows are installed," says Jim
Chumbley. "If the walls and ceiling of a home have been well insulated, the
windows could account for more than half of total heat loss."

A very effective material available at most fabric stores, trademarked
Warm Window, incorporates the best features available. It is multiple layers of reflective and hollow fiber insulation quilted together with a moisture resistant exterior lining.
"During homeowner assembly of a Roman shade or a drapery type, side-draw
shade, the interior is covered with nearly any decor fabric," Jim Chumbley
adds.

The Warm Window system incorporates flexible magnets concealed inside the
shade to attract and seal tightly to others applied to the window frame when
the shade is lowered. Opened or closed, the shades can be a stylish addition to room decor.

An independent testing laboratory concluded that a Warm Window shade
installed over a single glazed window reduced window heat loss more than 80%.
While every home has different conditions some homeowners have realized total heating cost savings of 20% to 40% after installing Warm Window shades.