Window treatments built for the Austin sun
Austin summers are long, hot, and bright. Triple-digit afternoons, intense UV, and low western sun pouring through glass make some rooms hard to use from late spring to early fall.
We start every project by looking at which way each window faces, then match the product to the problem: heat, glare, fading, or all three.
What the sun does to your home
- Heat: sunlight through glass turns into heat inside, so sun-facing rooms run hotter and your air conditioning works harder.
- Glare: bright afternoon light washes out TVs and computer screens and makes rooms uncomfortable.
- Fading: UV fades hardwood, rugs, leather, upholstery, and artwork over time.
- Hot spots: upstairs bedrooms, west-facing living rooms, and big sliding doors often feel several degrees warmer than the rest of the house.
Which way do your windows face?
- West: the hardest-hit. Strong, low sun from early afternoon to sunset. Best: 3% solar shades, exterior shades, awnings.
- South: steady sun most of the day. Best: solar shades, cellular shades, awnings.
- East: bright mornings. Best: 5% solar shades, blackout for bedrooms.
- North: softer, even light. Best: light filtering shades, draperies.
Your best defenses, strongest first
Mix and match by window. Most Austin homes use two or three of these.
Exterior shades
Block sun before it hits the glass, so the heat never comes inside. Keep your view.
Awnings
Shade windows and patios from above. Great on south and west walls.
Solar shades
Cut heat, glare, and up to about 97% of UV while you still see out.
Cellular shades
Honeycomb pockets add insulation at the window.
Blackout shades
Block direct sun completely in bedrooms and media rooms.
Motorized schedules
Close sun-facing shades automatically every afternoon, even when you're away.
Keep the view, lose the heat
Austin homes are built for views: Hill Country, Lake Travis, the skyline, the backyard. Solar fabrics let you see out during the day while cutting the glare and heat. Darker colors give the clearest view, and 3% vs. 5% lets you balance sun control and visibility window by window.
Austin sun questions
Call or text (512) 751-8408.
What's the best window treatment for the Texas sun?
On west- and south-facing windows, 3% solar shades, exterior shades, and awnings do the most. Cellular shades add insulation, and blackout shades block direct sun completely in bedrooms.
Which windows get the most heat in Austin?
West-facing windows take the strongest afternoon sun, followed by south-facing windows. Upstairs rooms and large glass doors also heat up fast.
Do solar shades block UV?
Yes. A 3% solar shade blocks about 97% of UV and a 5% shade about 95%, which helps protect floors, furniture, and art from fading.
Will window treatments lower my electric bill?
They reduce heat gain through windows, so your air conditioning doesn't work as hard. Results vary by home. See our guide to lowering your summer electric bill.
Can you look at my home and tell me which windows need what?
Yes. At your free in-home consultation we note which way every window faces and recommend the right product for each.
Get a sun-control plan for your home
Tell us a little about your project. We'll call to set a time that works, any day of the week, and bring our mobile showroom to you.
(512) 751-8408Text us: (512) 751-8408info@austintexasblinds.comConsultations available Monday through Sunday.
What happens next
- We call you from (512) 751-8408, usually the same day. Save our number so you know it's us.
- No answer? We'll text you from the same number to find a good time.
- We bring the showroom to you: samples at your windows, and we measure everything.
- Written quote within 24 hours. No obligation, no pressure.