Solar shades are an excellent solution for managing sunlight and maximizing comfort in your home or office. At Tucson Rolling Shutters & Screens, we offer interior and exterior solar shades with unique benefits and applications. In this blog, we explore the differences and similarities between interior and exterior solar shades to help you determine the best option for your windows.
Differences Between Interior and Exterior Solar Shades
Interior Solar Shades
Functions and Features:
- Placement: Interior solar shades are installed inside the window frame mounted on the interior side of the window.
- Energy Efficiency: Interior solar shades also minimize heat gain, but don’t block out a significant portion of the sun’s heat.
- Installation: Generally easier to install than exterior shades since they don’t require exterior access to the window.
Exterior Solar Shades
Functions and Features:
- Placement: Mounted on the exterior side of the window, patio, or outdoor area, these shades provide the first line of defense against the sun.
- UV Protection: By blocking the sun’s rays before they hit the window, exterior solar shades offer superior UV protection, preserving indoor furnishings from fading.
- Temperature Control: Exterior screens are highly effective at reducing heat gain, keeping the interior cooler on hot days, and reducing the load on air conditioning systems.
- Durability: Made from weather-resistant materials, exterior sun shades are designed to withstand the elements, including wind, rain, and prolonged sun exposure.
- Privacy: Exterior shades maximize privacy during the day while allowing outward visibility to maintain the spectacular view outside.
- Aesthetic Appeal: Available in various fabrics with thick or fine weave colors and styles that add a decorative touch to any exterior decor.
Similarities Between Interior and Exterior Solar Shades
- Sunlight Management: Both types of solar shades are designed to manage sunlight, reduce glare, and provide protection from the sun’s harmful UV rays.
- Energy Savings: By reducing heat gain, both interior and exterior solar shades contribute to lower energy costs and improved indoor comfort.
- Customization: Both options are available in a range of fabrics, colors, and openness factors, allowing you to choose the level of light filtration and visibility that suits your needs.
- Motorization: Both interior and exterior solar shades can be motorized for convenient operation, integrating seamlessly with smart home systems.
How to Determine the Right Choice for Your Windows
Choosing between exterior and interior sun shades depends on several factors, including your needs, aesthetic preferences, and the characteristics of your home or office. Here are some considerations to help you make an informed decision.
Location and Climate
Arizona is a hot climate, so you are most likely concerned with reducing heat gain. In this case, a sun shade is a great option due to its superior heat-blocking capabilities. However, interior solar shades can still provide effective glare reduction and UV protection while adding a decorative element to your interior.
Aesthetic Preferences
- Interior Design: If you want your window treatments to complement your interior decor, interior solar shades offer a wide range of styles and colors to match your home’s aesthetics.
- Exterior Appearance: If maintaining the exterior appearance of your home is a priority, exterior solar shades can be designed to blend with your home’s exterior or make a statement.
Privacy Needs
- Daytime Privacy: Besides sun protection, exterior solar shades offer better daytime privacy from passers-by while allowing you to see outside.
- Interior Ambiance: If maintaining a certain ambiance inside your home is important, interior shades can provide light control without affecting the exterior view.
Installation and Maintenance
- Ease of Installation: Interior solar shades are typically easier to install and maintain since they do not require exterior access.
- Durability: Exterior shades are designed to withstand harsh weather conditions, making them a durable choice for long-term use.
Functional Requirements
- Motorization and Automation: Both interior and exterior solar shades can be motorized. But having more control over your exterior shades can create a more dramatic difference in the comfort and atmosphere of your room or exterior living space.
- Window Accessibility: Consider how accessible your windows are for installation and maintenance when choosing between interior and exterior shades.
Choose the Right Window Coverings for Your Home with the Help Tucson Rolling Shutters & Screens
Whether you opt for interior or exterior shading systems, our goal is to provide high-quality, customizable solutions that meet your requirements. By considering factors such as location, aesthetic preferences, privacy needs, and installation considerations, you can make an informed decision that will make a huge difference in the functionality and beauty of your space.
Contact us today to learn more about our interior and exterior solar shade options and schedule a consultation with our experts!
