Long summer days are excellent. It is so nice to just open up the blinds, throw back the curtains and really enjoy the natural lighting from your home windows. Sunlight is good for your health and your mood, and relying on natural light during the day saves you energy.

By purchasing the right kind of windows, placing your windows in the ideal location and selecting drapery that allows the light to pass, you get a lighter, happier home. With that in mind, here are our top 3 suggestions of how to maximize natural lighting with your home windows.

1. Install Quantum 2 Windows

The best thing you can do to increase sunlight in your home is to open your blinds so the sun can shine in. However, you need the right kind of windows to make this an inexpensive and comfortable prospect. Quantum 2 windows have two panes and a film that help to minimize heat transfer through your windows. That way, your air conditioning does not have to work as hard to keep the home cool, even when you want to keep the blinds wide open. The film on the windows blocks UV rays and even sound waves, to reduce your discomfort and the inconvenience of noisy neighbors.

Also see: Should I Install Quantum 2 Windows?

2. Window Placement

The location of the windows makes a surprising difference in the amount of natural light you get from them. The most effective spots can vary depending on the position of your home on your property. Generally, south-facing windows are the best to add natural light to a room throughout the year. This is also true for skylights. If you are considering putting in a skylight in your kitchen, bathroom or bedroom, select a position that is likely to get a lot of light throughout the day without compromising your privacy. Skylights on the southern or southwestern pitch of your roof may give you the natural light you are looking for.

3. Avoid Heavy Shades

Window coverings can seriously affect the natural lighting in homes, so you should choose them carefully. Heavy, dark drapes and shades block out the natural light, making it hard for you to see. If you want something heavier for stylistic reasons, install a longer curtain rod so you can keep the drapes fully open and avoid sacrificing your access to light. Otherwise, opt for translucent drapes or shades to encourage natural light and make it easier for you to lighten up the room.

If you want to wake up happy and keep a pleasant mood throughout the day, increase the natural lighting in your home. Install Quantum 2 windows on the south side of your home and use window coverings that permit light, so you can save on energy while you enjoy all of the sunlight summer has to offer. When you want to know more about window installation or window replacements to boost light exposure, contact us for a free home window replacement quote.