"R-Value" measures the resistance of a particular material to heat flowing through it. The higher the R-value of any given insulator, the greater its heat resistance. Blinds with lower R-values don't insulate as well.

To give you an idea of what a high or low R-value for blinds is, a higher value would be around 5 or so. On the lower end, you'll see blinds and shades with R-values around 3.33.

To calculate the R-value of a given material, a test is conducted inside a heat flow meter apparatus. The material is placed between a cold and hot plate. Heat then flows from the hot to cold plate via conduction, convection, and radiation, and the testing device measures the flow of all three. The R-value is then calculated after the test is completed.

Overall, you're always going to be looking at cellular shades. They're always the best insulators. And they insulate well both during the summer and winter. Here are some of our top insulating blinds and their R-values:

1. Deluxe Blackout Double Cellular Shades (R-value: 5.0)
2. Cordless Blackout Single Cellular Shade (R-value: 5.0)
3. Deluxe Blackout Single Cellular Shades (R-value: 4.8)
4. Deluxe Light Filtering Double Cellular Shades (R-value: 4.5)
5. Cordless Light Filtering Double Cellular Shades (R-value: 4.4)

But these aren't the only shades that are good for temperature control. Solar shades with lighter fabrics can also be excellent for keeping the sun's light and heat out while reducing glare. They also allow you to see outside during the day. So if you live in a sunny area, they may be a better option than cellular shades. However, they don't provide the privacy of a cellular shade. Others can see inside at night when the lights are on.

What you'll want with solar shades  is to choose the right "openness factor." The lower this number is (range from 1% to 14% openness), the more light that the shades reflect out. A 1% openness factor, for example, means 99% of natural light gets blocked out. However, the lower the openness factor, the harder it is to see outside (so there's a little sacrifice in return for the insulating effects).

1. Premium Textured Solar Shades – all styles are currently 3% openness, R factors range from 3.4 to 3.62. – This fabric series is our best-seller and was designed to add beauty to the home. Most solar fabrics are woven to a preset openness using a basketweave style. Instead, the Exotic Collection fabrics are woven for their beauty unique fabric design.  
2. Premium Light Filtering Solar Shades – 1%, 3% & 5% openness available, R factors range from 3.27 to 3.62 – These shades are made with fabrics made in the U.S.A. The fabrics are available in a wide variety of solid colors, and every color is available in each openness factor. The fabrics are treated with Microban© which works continuously to inhibit the growth of bacteria, mold and mildew.  
3. Deluxe Solar Shades – 1%, 3%, 5% & 10% Openness available – These shades come in a variety of basketweave fabrics at a very economical price.

Now you have an idea of the best blinds and shades for keeping your home cool in summer and warm in winter.

Enjoy the new look…and the energy savings!