What Are The Best Skylight Blinds For South Facing Windows?
Skylight windows are a common feature in many extensions and loft conversions, and for good reason. Because of their optimal positioning, they are able to draw in as much natural light as possible. When designing a new space, optimal light availability is how you ensure that this new room will meet the needs of its future activities. Dark and dinghy loft spaces can be transformed into functional bedrooms or offices. New extensions can allow you to install additional kitchen appliances and draw in the natural beauty of your garden space. As with gardens, south-facing windows will draw in the most light. But is this also welcomed? And how can you combine this abundance of natural light with a blind that helps you to get the most out of this space?
Why does considering position matter?
Designing a loft or extension should be done with the support of a professional builder or architect. This ensures you cover all areas, creating a new space that will work functionally and stay in-keeping with your chosen style. In some rooms, the direction and positioning of roof windows will be dictated by the original building. Perhaps there is limited light overlooking your ground floor extension because of neighbouring buildings and, as such, you need to put windows in the corners where it can get through. Or perhaps building restrictions and regulations surrounding privacy or conservation areas mean that your windows have to be facing a certain direction. In these situations, it is easy to work with what you can have. However, just as we choose gardens that face south to benefit from as much light during the day as possible, so can we opt for windows that do the same thing. They are best placed to allow your new room to absorb the sun’s heat energy, making it easier to naturally warm up during the Winter.
The challenges of south-facing roof windows
In the UK, the sun rises in the east and sets in the west. This means that south-facing windows and households will have exposure to the most hours of sunlight during the day. During Winter, this means that you can make the most out of the limited house of daylight that we have. But, during the Summer, it can raise a number of problems.
Excessive heat
Uncovered windows will allow up to 60% of light rays and heat in. In the warmest months, this can cause significant problems. South-facing rooms can become unbearably hot and uncomfortable - the last thing you want when you’ve invested in creating this new space.
UV exposure
Standard windows offer no protection against UV rays. While this is less likely to cause damage to your own skin, it will cause the dye in the fabric to fade. If your south-facing window overlooks a new carpet or sofa, for example, it could begin to look sun-damaged much quicker than normal.
Movement of some materials
Some household materials, such as vinyl, are malleable. This means that they expand and contract when exposed to fluctuating temperatures. Without a protective cover to minimise this, you could find that flooring becomes damaged. For these reasons, it is important to consider how you will manage natural light exposure if you do choose (or need) to have south-facing skylight windows installed. The most cost-effective, versatile and practical way to do this is by choosing the best skylight blind.
How to use skylight blinds effectively on a south-facing window
All roof window blinds are designed to help manage both light and privacy. However, to get the most out of them and minimise the challenges created by south-facing windows, it pays to use them efficiently. This means:
- During summer - Close your blinds during the hottest hours during the day in Summer. Open them back up during the cooler times of the day to maintain a comfortable temperature inside.
- During winter - Close your blinds during the coldest times of the day. This will prevent excessive heat from passing out, minimising your dependency on central heating and reducing bills as a result. Open them back up during the warmest times to benefit from whatever thermal heat there is available.
The same rules apply for normal windows - especially those that are south-facing.
What are the best skylight blinds for these windows?
Choosing the right skylight blind will also help you to effectively manage the high percentage of light that your south-facing window will be exposed to. There are two main options to consider in this scenario - Blackout Thermal Skylight Blinds and Translucent Skylight Blinds.
Blackout Thermal Skylight Blinds
Giving the best control over light, skylight blinds manufactured from blackout thermal fabric are ideal for all rooms. However, they are the most popular choice for bedrooms, nurseries and other spaces where complete blackout is required. The multi-layer fabric sits within a secure channel which eliminates any gaps in light and provides the perfect level of control. They also help to manage the temperature in the room. When closed, the thermal fabric provides a physical barrier against heat loss, keeping a room warm during winter. In the warmer months (and, in this case, when dealing with south-facing skylight windows), they also prevent excessive heat from passing into a room when it is no longer required. While the video below shows our blackout roof lantern blinds, it is a good visual example of how effective blackout blinds can be when fitted in channels around the window recess.
Translucent Skylight Blinds
Another common issue with south-facing skylight windows is glare. Direct sunlight on televisions, computer screens or other devices cause disruption to your entertainment. In this situation, you need to find an effective way to reduce this light without blocking it out entirely. Translucent skylight blinds are the ideal option here. The woven fabric allows a muted degree of light through, reducing the intensity that creates glare but still allowing the room to be usable throughout the day.
How can Skylight Blinds Direct help?
Bringing you the best skylight window blinds is our speciality. It’s the reason why we’ve designed such a wide and varied collection - so that you can find the best blind for slanted windows to suit your home. With options to suit most major brands, including VELUX®, Keylite®, Fakro® and more with a multitude of colours and patterns that help you to create a home that you’re proud of. If you would like help finding the right skylight blinds for your south-facing windows, browse our online website or get in contact to speak to the team here today.
