Weatherization Series-Solar Screens

This is the third post in our series on weatherization.
We had an evaluation done in February after applying
for the weatherization assistance program last year.
Last week, we talked about Central Air/Heat maintenance.

Today we're looking at Solar Screens.

This is not window tinting,
but actual screens that fit over your windows.

Here's the back of our house.  It faces south.

The window to the left is the Master Bedroom,

the other two look into our living area.

Here the original screens are in place.

Lil' Guy's window is also on the south side.

He likes his room darker in the mornings,

so he can wake up at his own pace.

These two windows are on the west side.
We have one more window on the east side of the house, which I haven't shown here.
The north side of the house has one window and our front door.
The program doesn't provide screens on the north side of the home.

Maurice came out on two different occasions to measure our windows.

"Measure twice, cut once."

He then ordered his materials and made the screens in his shop.

Each screen is custom-made to order,

to ensure a perfect fit on the windows.

The bonus?

Maurice cleaned the windows before installation!

If you'll notice on the first pictures shown on the post,

these screens are much darker than the originals.

They block out 90% of the sun's rays.

One of the things I liked best about this house,

was all the natural light that came into it,

so I wasn't sure I would really like the light being blocked.

Each window is fitted with a metal channel to hold the screen in place.

The installation took the better part of a day.

We've noticed a big difference in the amount of heat felt through the windows.
It's also helped with privacy, as we have no back fence.

So far, I'm doin' okay with the decrease in light,
and being outside as much as I am,
I think it'll work out okay.



The best part of these screens is that,
unlike window tinting with film,
when you open up your windows in the cooler months,
you still get the protection from the sun,
but ventilation is not compromised.
They are also supposed to help retain the heat 
during the colder part of the year. 
With our house now on the market,
we think these screens will add to its resale value,
and it didn't cost us a dime.
Thanks, Maurice!




 

It's too early to tell what the change will be on our power bill,
but I'll bet it will be significant.
I'll post an update after we get our next bill.

Maurice can be reached locally at 863-661-1533 
or email him at solarscreenandmore@yahoo.com.
Tell him daisy sent ya.
Here's the company's website for more information.


Those in Central Florida can find out more
about the program here.