The orientation of your home to the harsh rays of the sun can dramatically impact how your home looks and feels throughout the day. However, by understanding the kinds of light that can come into your home based on the direction of the sun’s rays and your windows, you can choose the proper window treatments to create a comfortable space. Here is a guide to home sun exposure, and choosing the window treatments to match. 

Light Directions and How They Impact Sun Exposure

1. North 

Northern light is soft and consistent throughout the day. With a calming presence, northern lighting matches well with many types of window treatments, including shutters, blinds, custom shades, and even drapes. Since northern light tends to be softer, people who enjoy a well-lit home may opt for minimal window treatments, such as gauzy curtains.

On the other hand, if you like more privacy, plantation shutters can work well for your space. When you prefer darkness, shutters can be snapped shut, and then opened again when you want to let the light pour in. 

2. East 

Since the sun rises in the east, homes with windows on the east side enjoy bright morning light, followed by warm ambient light during the day. However, if your bedroom has east-facing windows, be prepared for a bright beam of light first thing in the morning. Blackout curtains work well in rooms where east-facing windows could wake people up in the morning, and honeycomb shades exemplify the soft glow in the morning if you enjoy the light. 

3. South 

Southern lighting tends to be harsh, especially in the middle of the day. Avoid using window treatments with dark color palettes if you have south-facing windows, as the bright light may make them look even darker.

4. West 

West-facing windows provide bright, golden sunlight in the afternoon and early evening as the sun sets. Since the afternoon sun tends to have golden and red undertones, avoid choosing window treatments with red, yellow, or brown colors, as they may make the light even warmer. Additionally, since afternoon sunlight can generate an exceptional amount of heat, consider choosing a window treatment that can block out the sun altogether on hot days, such as blackout curtains. 

Anytime you are thinking about updating the window treatments in your home, turn to Mike's Window Treatments Inc. in Dothan, AL. For more than 36 years, this trusted professional has been helping home and business owners create beautiful, functional spaces that work perfectly for their lifestyles. Whether you are interested in adding plantation shutters or custom shades to your home, visit their website to explore the products they carry, or give their office a call at (334) 793-3572 to schedule a complimentary estimate.