Reduce Drafts and Increase Insulation With Interlined Curtains

Insulating curtains are constructed of a normal, lined curtain, that can be made from almost any fabric, together with a layer of high-density foam, plus layers which reflect moisture and heat. The energy saving may seem small in just one house, but the benefits in large establishments, such as schools, hospitals, hotels and office buildings, can be dramatic. Not only are insulated curtains effective at retaining heat, they can keep rooms cool in summer by blocking out sunlight, meaning you can turn down the air-conditioning. They are also effective in soundproofing, keeping your noise in and traffic noise out. Insulated curtains will also block out light, which means they are ideal for the bedrooms of people who have trouble sleeping, or night workers.

The insulating properties of curtains means that they are effective in keeping out drafts and keeping warmth in. It is worth spending a little time or money sealing window draughts, as without attention, draughts will increase over time. They won't just go away on their own. If your home doesn't have double glazing or window insulation, a window insulation kit is inexpensive and the perfect partner to insulated curtains.

For further information on thermal curtain linings and other linings, see our FAQ section on linings.

Insulated curtains also have a positive effect on the environment. By letting less energy escape from your home, you are not only saving money but also letting fewer emissions into the atmosphere, so they are both ecological and economical. This is an important consideration to think about when purchasing your insulated curtains. It has been estimated that you could be losing up to a quarter of your home's heat in the winter by not having insulated curtains, as warm air is drawn to cold windows. At the same time, around a third of heat coming in through your windows in summer can be prevented from entering the home. The use of insulated curtains in summer will not only keep the home cool, but avoid the effects of sunlight entering the windows and causing carpets and furniture to fade. This is especially undesirable when the sunlight fades just one patch of carpet, leaving an undesirable and ugly effect. Insulated curtains are often fitted with magnetic side-strips, which hold the curtains tight against the wall, preventing draughts coming through the sides of the curtains or blinds. Every time warm area from your home hits a cold window, a convection draught is caused, even if your windows are double glazed or properly sealed against draughts.

Curtains designed to block out light are made with an opaque rubber backing, which can block out anything up to 100% of direct light. Lined curtains work on a similar principle, with a coated fabric fixed to the rear of the decorative side of the curtain. From inside your room, insulated curtains will not appear any different to normal curtains. They can be vacuumed regularly to keep them looking fresh, or dry cleaned just as regular curtains.

Although it is possible to buy ready-made insulated curtains online or through mail order, you will want to have them for a number of years, and be sure of the quality of both insulation and finish. It is best to consult a professional curtain specialist, who can advise you on the amount or type of curtains that you need, and answer your questions on the insulating properties of curtains. While this may not be the cheapest option, your curtains will save energy and money, as well as helping the environment, for years to come. Planning at the fitting stage will mean that your insulated curtains serve you well in the future.

To look at some of our great fabrics look no further than here; Cath Kidston, Clarke & Clarke , Vanessa Arbuthnott or Prestigious Textiles.