One factor that is often overlooked when it comes to selecting blinds for the home, is the direction that the window faces. South facing windows tend to get a lot of sun, and become very warm, while north facing windows only receive a limited amount of light. As a result, these windows may benefit from different types of blinds to achieve different results. So what should you consider when choosing blinds for north facing windows? And how can you make the right choice for your property?
What are the important considerations when choosing blinds for north facing windows?
There are a number of important considerations to bear in mind so that you can choose the right blinds for your north facing windows. These considerations include:
Making the most of natural light:
One of the key considerations for north-facing windows is the limited amount of direct sunlight they receive. Unlike south-facing windows that tend to receive abundant sunlight throughout the day, north-facing windows are typically shaded and receive indirect or diffused light. This reduced sunlight can affect the overall ambiance of a room and the functionality of the blinds you choose.
To make the most of the natural light available, it is important to select blinds that maximize the brightness of the room. Light and neutral-colored blinds are ideal for north-facing windows as they allow for the reflection and diffusion of light. Opt for shades of white, cream, or pastels to create an airy and spacious feel in the room. Avoid darker and heavy materials as they can absorb what little light enters the window, making the room appear darker and smaller.
Light control for north facing windows:
While maximizing the natural light available is an important consideration for your blinds, you will also need to be able to balance this need with the need for lighting control. As a result, blinds with adjustable slats or vanes, such as Venetian or vertical blinds, are an excellent choice as they allow you to control the amount of light entering the room. You can tilt the slats to let in some gentle daylight while still maintaining privacy.
Insulation and energy efficiency:
North-facing windows tend to be more prone to heat loss compared to other orientations. To combat this, consider blinds that offer insulation properties. Cellular or honeycomb blinds are an excellent option as they feature unique cellular pockets that trap air, providing an extra layer of insulation and enhancing energy efficiency. These blinds can help keep your room warmer during colder months while reducing drafts and saving on heating costs.
Glare reduction:
Even though north-facing windows receive less direct sunlight, glare can still be an issue, especially during certain times of the day or in rooms with reflective surfaces. Roller blinds with light-filtering or solar screen fabrics are a good choice for mitigating glare. These blinds can diffuse sunlight, reducing harsh reflections and creating a softer, more comfortable atmosphere in your space.
Privacy:
Privacy is an important consideration for any window, regardless of its orientation. Since north-facing windows often face the street or neighboring buildings, maintaining privacy is essential. Depending on your preference, you may opt for blinds that provide full privacy when closed, such as Roman or roller blinds, or those that offer privacy while still allowing some natural light to filter through, like sheer blinds or voile curtains.
Aesthetics:
The choice of blinds can significantly impact the overall aesthetic of a room. For north-facing windows, it’s advisable to select blinds that can enhance the natural light and make the room feel brighter and more inviting. Light-colored blinds, such as white or pastel shades, can help reflect whatever sunlight is available, creating a sense of airiness and maximizing the perception of light in the space.
Here at The Blinds Mart, we are Southport’s leading experts when it comes to blinds and shutters, so why not get in touch today to find out how we can help you choose the right blinds for your north facing windows?