This follow-up guide expands on those ideas by offering deeper insight into advanced winterproof window solutions, layering strategies, and practical upgrades that make a noticeable difference during the coldest months.
Whether you live in a Montclair Tudor, a Wayne colonial, or a modern condo in Jersey City, the right combination of heat-retention window treatments can help your home stay warm, stylish, and energy efficient.
Why Winter Comfort Starts with the Right Window Plan
Windows are one of the biggest sources of heat loss in North Jersey homes. Even high-quality windows allow warmth to escape through the glass, gaps, and frames. This forces heating systems to work harder and increases your energy bills each winter.
While insulating window coverings are a strong starting point, the best results come from combining products, adjusting how you use them, and selecting materials that fit each room’s needs. This guide walks you through strategies that maximize comfort and savings.
The Power of Energy-Saving Window Treatments in Winter
Layering window treatments is one of the most effective ways to increase insulation and block winter drafts. By creating a multi-layer barrier, you keep warm air inside and cold air outside — all while enhancing the style of your room.
1. Pair Cellular Shades with Decorative Drapery
Cellular honeycomb shades are known for their powerful insulation. Their honeycomb pockets trap air, forming a thermal barrier. When these shades are paired with custom drapery, you get both beauty and performance.
Benefits include:
- Fewer drafts near older windows
- A cozier, more comfortable environment
- Softer acoustics and reduced outside noise
This combination is one of the easiest and most attractive upgrades for winter comfort.
2. Add Side Panels for Extra Insulation
If you already have thermal window shades you love, adding side panels is an easy way to improve thermal performance. Side panels help seal the edges where cold air often creeps in.
They pair well with:
Side panels also add softness, depth, and color to any room.
3. Use Top-Down/Bottom-Up Features Strategically
Top-down/bottom-up cellular shades allow you to bring in sunlight while maintaining privacy and warmth. During sunny winter days, open the top to let in natural heat. At night, close the shade fully to trap warmth indoors.
Winter-Ready Window Treatment Materials
Not all materials provide the same insulation. Choosing the right fabrics or structures can dramatically improve comfort all winter long.
1. Thermal & Blackout Fabrics
Thermal fabrics have dense weaves that reduce heat transfer. Adding blackout liners boosts insulation further while enhancing privacy and light control.
These fabrics are ideal for:
- Bedrooms that stay cold at night
- Living rooms with large windows
- Home offices facing exterior walls
They are especially effective when used with Roman shades and drapery.
2. Wood & Composite Structures
Plantation shutters provide excellent insulation because they create a sturdy barrier between the room and the window. When closed, they seal tightly against the frame.
Ideal for:
- Street-facing windows
- Older homes with drafty frames
- Rooms where privacy and insulation matter most
3. Multi-Layer Shade Designs
Some shades, such as dual shades or layered shades, offer built-in layers for added insulation. These products allow you to switch between light filtering during the day and full coverage at night to retain heat.
Room-by-Room Winter Window Treatment Recommendations
Every room has unique comfort needs. Here are the best winter upgrades for each type of space.
Living Rooms
Living rooms often have large windows that let in cold drafts. Cellular shades paired with decorative drapery provide excellent insulation without sacrificing style. A combination of cellular shades and drapery panels
is a strong choice for these high-use spaces.
For modern homes, thermal roller shades or layered shades are great choices for flexible light control and warmth.
Bedrooms
Bedrooms should feel warm, cozy, and private. Blackout Roman shades or lined drapery panels create effective insulation while also blocking unwanted light.
If early morning sunlight is an issue, blackout cellular shades offer both insulation and light control.
Home Offices
Cold drafts make it difficult to stay focused. Insulating solutions such as cellular shades and energy-efficient
roller shades help stabilize the temperature and maintain comfort throughout your workday.
Kitchens & Bathrooms
Kitchens and bathrooms need durable, moisture-resistant solutions. Insulated blinds like faux wood blinds
and composite shutters offer insulation without being affected by humidity or steam.
How to Get the Most Out of Your Winter Window Treatments
Once your energy-saving window treatments are in place, small daily habits can increase their effectiveness.
Tips include:
- Open treatments during sunny winter days to bring in natural heat
- Close treatments before sunset to retain warmth
- Use layered treatments on north-facing windows for extra insulation
- Seal small gaps around window frames whenever possible
These simple adjustments help maximize energy savings and improve overall comfort.
Why Choose Made in the Shade North Jersey?
Our team understands the unique challenges homeowners face in North Jersey during winter. We offer
custom-fit solutions that help reduce drafts, improve comfort, and lower energy spending.
You benefit from:
- Free in-home consultations
- Expert design guidance
- Accurate measurements and personalized recommendations
- A wide selection of energy-saving window treatments
- Local service designed for North Jersey homes and climates
We bring the showroom to you, making it easy to compare materials, colors, and textures in your home’s
natural lighting.
Warm Up Your Home This Winter — Book Your Free Consultation
If you’re ready to improve comfort, reduce cold drafts, and enjoy a more energy-efficient home this winter,
we’re here to help. The right window treatments can make a noticeable difference in how your home feels —
and how much you spend on heating. Request your consultation today.
