In January, when the wind hits the side of a house in Winnipeg, you can feel exactly which windows are weak. After one especially cold winter, I started paying attention not only to new windows but also to the best blinds for windows to boost comfort.
Why energy efficient blinds matter
Natural Resources Canada notes that windows, doors, and skylights can be responsible for a significant share of home heat loss, and that upgrading both the windows and how you manage them can improve comfort and reduce energy use.
Blinds and shades for windows are not a replacement for efficient windows, but they can add an extra layer of control and insulation.
What are the best blinds for windows in cold climates?
The best blinds for windows in Canadian winters usually include:
- Insulated cellular shades
- Well fitted roller shades with thermal backing
- Layered systems that combine blinds with curtains
Cellular shades create air pockets that slow heat transfer, and tightly installed units can significantly reduce heat loss.
Comparing energy oriented blind options
| Type | Insulation | Light control | Best use case |
| Cellular shades | High | Good | Bedrooms, living rooms |
| Thermal roller shades | Medium to high | Good | Rentals, simple installs |
| Layered shade plus drape | Very high | Flexible | Very cold regions |
The U.S. Department of Energy and Canadian sources both highlight how window coverings, especially insulated shades, support more efficient homes.
How to choose energy smart window coverings
- Check your windows
- If they are already ENERGY STAR certified, the right coverings will help you use that performance effectively.Natural Resources Canada.
- Look at orientation and local climate
- In very cold climates, you may want to close shades for windows at night to reduce heat loss and open them in the day for passive solar gain.Natural Resources Canada.
- Install with minimal gaps
- The closer the blind sits to the frame, the better the insulating effect.
- Do not forget summer
- The same coverings that hold heat in during winter can help keep heat out in summer if managed correctly.
Common mistakes to avoid
- Buying expensive shades but leaving them open on cold nights
- Ignoring air leaks around frames where weatherstripping is needed
- Choosing aesthetics over function on the coldest windows
- Forgetting to coordinate with ventilation and indoor air quality guidelines
FAQ
What should I consider first when choosing the best blinds for windows for energy savings?
Look at your climate, window performance, and where you feel the strongest drafts or overheating.
Do I need new windows before investing in energy efficient blinds?
Not always. While efficient windows provide the biggest gains, good blinds can still improve comfort on older windows.Natural Resources Canada.
What are the pros and cons of cellular shades vs thermal rollers?
Cellular shades usually provide better insulation but can cost more. Thermal roller shades are simpler and often cheaper, but may not perform quite as well in extreme cold.
Conclusion
The best blinds for windows in Canadian winters are the ones that work with, not against, your windows and climate. By pairing efficient products with thoughtful daily use, you can stay more comfortable, reduce drafts, and make your heating system work a little less hard all season long.
