The 2026 Guide to Energy-Efficient Window Treatments

As we step into 2026, energy efficiency is no longer just a “nice-to-have” feature — it’s a cornerstone of modern home and business management. With rising cooling costs and a global shift toward sustainable living, the right window treatments are your first line of defense against the sun’s intensity. But where do you start?

At North Solar Screen, we specialize in custom systems designed to maximize comfort while minimizing utility bills. Here is a quick and simple guide to help you choose the most energy-efficient solutions this year.

1. Exterior vs. Interior: The “First Barrier” Advantage

While many homeowners focus on interior design and look, the most significant energy savings come from exterior shades.

• How it works: Exterior shades block or reflect solar radiation before it hits your window glass. Once sunlight passes through the glass, it turns into heat that gets trapped inside your home, and that’s not always a good thing.
• The Results: High-quality exterior solar shades can reduce solar heat gain by up to 77% and lower indoor temperatures by as much as 15°F on the hottest days.
• Exterior shades are a smart addition to aesthetically address energy efficiency.

2. The Power of “Openness Factors”

Energy efficiency is largely determined by the “openness factor”—the density of the fabric weave.  Quality of the material matters at North Solar because a shade is only as good as the material it’s made with.  

• 1% to 3% Openness: These are the heavy hitters of efficiency. They block up to 99% of UV rays and the maximum amount of solar heat, making them ideal for south- or west-facing windows.
• 5% to 10% Openness: These offer a balance, providing significant heat reduction (around 75-85%) while maintaining a clearer view of the outdoors.

3. Specialized Solutions for 2026

• The “Grande” & “Citadel” Series: For those in high-wind areas, North Solar’s best selling, heavy-duty exterior shades are engineered to stay in place and protect your windows, even when the weather turns.

• Retractable Awnings: These extend your living space while shielding your windows from the high midday sun, reducing the cooling load on your entire home. Awnings are ideal for patios, decks, and windows to help you enjoy outdoor spaces year-round while protecting your home and furniture from the elements.

• Clear Vinyl Shades: These shades allow the warmth of the sun to fully penetrate your outdoor space while creating a transparent barrier against the elements to make it usable year-round. Vinyl is suitable for many outdoor applications such as restaurants and outside gathering areas like, patios and gazebos.

4. Smart Automation for Maximum Savings

In 2026, “set it and forget it” is the gold standard for energy efficiency and who doesn’t love that.  Sun and wind sensor options are available and RollApp hub can incorporate your shades into your Somfy home automation for amazing ease at home.

• Scheduled Operation: Use smart home integration to automatically lower your shades during peak UV hours (typically 10 AM to 4 PM).
• Adaptive Sensors: Modern systems can detect rising temperatures or sunlight intensity and deploy themselves, ensuring your HVAC system isn’t overworking while you’re away.

Why Choose North Solar Screen?

We don’t just sell shades; we manufacture high-performance systems tailored to your specific environment. Whether you are looking to protect a commercial storefront or create a comfortable backyard oasis, our 2026 lineup is designed for longevity and maximum thermal performance.

Ready to lower your energy bills?
Contact North Solar Screen for a free consultation and let our experts help you find the perfect energy-saving solution for your home or business today.