Living in Olympia, Washington, has its perks—the stunning views of the Puget Sound, lush forests, and a peaceful atmosphere. However, if you’re lucky enough to have a home with a view of the Sound, you’ve probably experienced the downside too: glare. Whether it’s the strong sunlight reflecting off the water or just bright sunny days, the glare can make it hard to enjoy your living space. This is where window treatments can save the day.
In this article, we’ll talk about how you can use window treatments to fight that annoying glare, and why it’s a good idea to work with a window treatments installer Olympia WA.
The Puget Sound Glare Problem
Homes near the Puget Sound are known for having a unique kind of glare. Because the water reflects sunlight, rooms with large windows or homes facing the Sound often get hit with intense, bright light. This might not sound too bad, but it can actually cause a lot of discomfort. It can make watching TV, reading, or even just hanging out in your living room tough. Worse, long-term exposure to intense sunlight can fade your furniture, flooring, and artwork.
How Window Treatments Can Help
1. Reduce Glare and Heat
The right window treatments are your first line of defense against glare. Options like blinds, shades, and drapes can block or filter sunlight, making your rooms more comfortable without taking away the view. Cellular shades, for example, are great for insulating your home while also softening sunlight.
Motorized shades are another popular option because you can adjust them easily throughout the day with just the push of a button. That means you can lower them during the brightest parts of the day to reduce glare and raise them again when you want to enjoy the sunset over the Sound.
2. Protect Your Furniture
Sunlight streaming through your windows might be pretty, but it can damage your furniture, floors, and other home décor over time. UV rays from the sun can cause fabrics and wood to fade, making your investment in furniture look worn out way too soon. A good window treatment installer in Olympia, WA, can help you find options that not only reduce glare but also block UV rays. Many blinds and shades are now designed with UV protection built in, so you don’t have to sacrifice style for practicality.
3. Enhance Privacy Without Blocking the View
One of the best things about living in Olympia is the natural beauty that surrounds you. You probably don’t want to block out the gorgeous view of the Puget Sound with heavy curtains. This is where options like solar shades come in. Solar shades are specially designed to reduce glare while still allowing you to see outside. They also add a layer of privacy so you don’t feel like your neighbors can look right into your home.
4. Energy Efficiency
Glare isn’t the only problem with bright sunlight. Direct sunlight can heat up your home, making it harder to keep cool in the summer. By using energy-efficient window treatments, such as cellular shades or dual-layer blinds, you can keep your home cooler, save energy, and lower your electricity bills. These treatments trap heat in the winter and reflect it away in the summer, so they’re a smart investment year-round.
Choosing the Right Window Treatment Installer in Olympia, WA
Now that you know how window treatments can help, it’s important to find a qualified installer who knows the Olympia area. A good window treatments installer in Olympia, WA, will understand the specific challenges that come with living near the Puget Sound and can recommend products that work best in this environment. They’ll also make sure your treatments are installed properly so they function as they should for years to come.
When looking for an installer, be sure to choose a company that offers personalized service and a range of high-quality products. A local installer will have the expertise to suggest the best styles, fabrics, and systems for your unique home.
Conclusion
Living near the Puget Sound can be a dream, but the glare that comes with it is no joke. The right window treatments can make your home more comfortable, protect your belongings, and enhance your privacy—without blocking out the beautiful views. By working with a professional window treatments installer in Olympia, WA, you’ll ensure your home stays bright and welcoming, without the unwanted side effects of harsh sunlight.
FAQs
1. What are the best window treatments for reducing glare?
Some of the best options for reducing glare include cellular shades, solar shades, and motorized blinds. These treatments help filter or block the sunlight while still allowing natural light into your home.
2. Can I still see my view with window treatments?
Yes! Many window treatments like solar shades and light-filtering blinds allow you to maintain your view while reducing glare and protecting your home from UV rays.
3. Are window treatments energy efficient?
Yes, many modern window treatments are designed with energy efficiency in mind. Cellular shades, for example, provide insulation, helping to keep your home cool in the summer and warm in the winter.
4. Why should I hire a professional installer?
Hiring a professional ensures that your window treatments are installed correctly and function properly. A local window treatments installer in Olympia will also understand the unique needs of homes in the area and can recommend the best products for your space.
