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3 affordable ways to convert your home into a sustainable one

With most of us working from home and now paying extra for our surging electricity usage, you may be wondering how you can do your part to create a more sustainable home, without conducting an entire retrofit of the existing foundation.

Research conducted by the team at Budget Blinds found that as much as 50% of a home's heating and cooling energy can be lost through its windows, so let's start there and give you three tips to help you conserve energy and save money.

1. Stylish Coverings

You may be surprised at how much the right window covering will retain heat. Many experts agree that an average house featuring 15 windows outfitted with energy-efficient window coverings can achieve an annual energy savings of approximately $150.

The first option we'll cover is Blinds, which have found the perfect balance between shutters and shades. They provide great privacy and lighting control with styles such as wood, faux wood, composite wood, vertical and fabric. Your renewed sustainable space will have a clean and dynamic feel to it.

<who>Photo Credit: Budget Blinds</who>

Now if you are looking for variety and diversity, look no further than Shades. They have, by far, the most amount of customization for window coverings.

From natural woven shades to contemporary prints and colours, you can get as creative as you want in any season. Adding more natural colours into your home will also help remind you that spring is on its way.

The dynamic styles of shades can fill any room and whether you want more heat retention, energy-savings, elegance or privacy, shades are a sustainable upgrade.

Your next window covering option is Shutters. Now, these have been around the longest, but that doesn’t mean they are out of style. In fact, it is the opposite. These are some of the most popular window coverings out there - with good reason.

<who>Photo Credit: Budget Blinds</who>

With options such as vinyl, aluminum, wood and many more, your space will be protected from the cold, heat and humidity, enhancing your home’s comfort in every season. Shutters can also come in vinyl, which is inherently termite, rot and moisture resistant. A perfect way to combat natural elements when the snow melts, all while upgrading your space into a sustainable one on a budget.

2. Energy Efficient Lightbulbs

Once you've covered the natural light from the windows, you'll naturally turn on the lights. So you may as well convert your interior lighting to energy-efficient options. You can do this by simply swapping your bulbs for warmer and brighter light; go for more energy-efficient options such as LED.

Research shows that LED bulbs are about six times more efficient and generally last much longer, too (and unlike the CFL bulbs, they don't need to "warm-up" to reach full brightness). Although this might sound silly, adding more light into your home can also have a very positive effect on your mood.

If you are someone who has a hard time getting up in the morning, then you might be interested in motorized window coverings. These blinds can be programmed to open up in the morning to let light in so that you can get a move on.

<who>Photo Credit: Budget Blinds</who>

Oftentimes when you think of motorized blinds that can open on their own you think about the high-end executives in movies that seem to have a remote for everything... when in reality, motorized blinds are affordable for all homes, apartments and offices!

The motorization of blinds, shutters, shades, curtains and drapes has never been more accessible. Controlled remotely, this option is kid and pet friendly.

To learn more about how motorized blinds can be incorporated into your budget, Request a Free In-Home or Virtual Consultation with the teams in Vernon or Kamloops.

3. Ask an Expert

Before you spoil your windows, it is best to know your options.

Take a good look at your windows and the style you are going for in your home. Maybe facetime a friend and ask for their advice. There is a good chance that they know your style and remember your interior decor enough to provide some helpful advice. You never know what will spark an idea!

If you don’t trust your friends’ opinions then check out this free, in-home style consultation.

<who>Photo Credit: 123rf</who

By asking an expert, they can see your space and provide advice on how to convert it into a sustainable one that could save you hundreds of dollars a month. So lucky for you, Budget Blinds has you covered!

With state-of-the-art window coverings and sustainability advice, you will be saving money all year long. Whether it is heat retention, moisture resistance or you just want to click a button to open everything, these window coverings are always working to save you money and create a space that brings you happiness, no matter the weather.

With an industry-leading No Questions Asked Warranty, Budget Blinds strives to provide their customers with a free virtual consultation, a hassle-free shopping experience, perfect installation and of course, beautiful views.


Budget Blinds strives to turn your vision into reality with professional window treatment installation and experienced Style Consultants that bring the showroom to your home.

NowMedia sponsored content is written and posted in partnership with participating businesses. While NowMedia retains editorial control of sponsored content, the content is created in collaboration with the sponsor.



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