These days, everyone’s looking for a ‘green’ home. It’s become such a buzzword, with all sorts of manufacturers using the term to label their products, eco-friendly blinds and green window treatments included. What does it all mean?
There’s no regulatory body to permit or prohibit manufacturers from using the word ‘green,’ but we’ve done the research. At Strickland’s Home in Wilmington, NC, we’re happy to sort through the fifty shades of green to help you find the one that’s right for you.
Often when blinds, shades and other window treatments are labeled as ‘green’, it refers to their manufacturing process. Many green blinds and window coverings are advertised as being manufactured with a low VOC output, referring to number of volatile organic compounds both used in the creation of such materials and given off when they dry or cure. ‘Green’ manufacturers use paints, adhesives, and finishes that meet certain Environmental Protection Agency standards, making them safer for the environment.
Another great way to go green with your blinds or window coverings is by purchasing blinds made and packaged with recycled materials. Some manufacturers are so focused on staying green, that they’ll even proudly recycle wood shavings, plastic scraps, and other byproducts of the manufacturing process.
If recycled materials aren’t an option for your home, consider organic renewable materials. Plant materials such as jute and bamboo have incredibly rapid growth. Many eco-focused companies farm from sustainable forests, where two trees are planted for every one that is harvested.
Lastly, it’s important to keep in mind that what your green window coverings do for your home once they’re installed is key to their ‘eco-friendly’ status. Cellular shades, for example, are not only affordable, they also naturally reduce heating and cooling costs due to their structure. Solar shades are designed to reduce sunlight heating the home too intensely in the summer whereas insulated Roman shades are a perfect option to preserve heat in the winter. Even custom plantation shutters make a great energy-saving option for your home. In addition to meaning money in your pocket during extreme seasons, these options translate into less overall energy usage, letting you feel good about your home’s relationship with our planet.
There’s not even any need to choose between one benefit and another; many products offer all of the above. Visit the Strickland’s Home showroom in Wilmington, NC, to speak to our experts about the best way for you to go green.