Temperature regulation.

As this posting is written, it is about 100 degrees here in Reno, Nevada. Invariably the phone will ring today with this question, “What can I do to keep the temperature down in my room? I have these skylight windows, and the sun blazes in!” Whether summer or winter, temperature can be controlled with the proper window coverings. In the video posted below, the client is noticing a dramatic difference in temperature this summer. They will notice significantly warmer room temperatures on those cold January days as well.

There are a number of different products that can be installed on a skylight shade, but my personal favorite is a cellular shade. The shade in this video is by Hunter Douglas. It is their Simplicity shade. They are efficient, cost effective, easy to use and resistant to sun damage. Some applications call for different products, though. For example, if the skylight looks out at a view, I will often suggest a solar screen shade. That way, they still benefit from the solar properties of the screen shade while enjoying the view at the same time.

One often overlooked factor is the need to control your window coverings. Because the shades in most cases are not reachable by hand, you will have to decide which control to purchase. Options include a telescoping wand, as pictured in the video, or motorization with a remote control or wall switch. Automated shades can even include sun sensors in order to open and close based on the climatic conditions.

One of my online forums has been discussing the practicality of shutters mounted in a skylight as another viable option. As with all window covering or window treatment questions, there is usually no one simple answer. There are many things that will work, but only one right solution for YOUR window.