Going green just in time for spring

Earth Day has come and gone, so hopefully you've learned some lessons about how your actions affect the environment. Now that spring is here, homeowners are trying to put their homes on the market or are remodeling their homes in an effort to stay put. One of the most cost-effective means of improving your home will come in the form of window blinds and shades. Not only will they spruce up your home aesthetically, but they hold a number of energy-efficient qualities that will improve your carbon footprint.

Homeowners should try to work with the seasons to determine their design choices. In the winter, heavy draperies in conjunction with energy-efficient shades are the best option. However, in the warmer weather, you're likely to have your windows open and you'll need some lighter window coverings to let the air in. According to BurlingtonFreePress.com, spring is the perfect time of year to showcase crisp white and soothing creams to make better use of light throughout a home.

Start by removing dark lampshades and throw pillows and replace them with cooler colors such as spring pastels. In addition, remove heavy draperies and try to hang some lightweight curtains that will allow more light to come through. Remove heavy slipcovers and winter area rugs and try to go for a streamlined look throughout the space. Additionally, a vase with some spring flowers is always a good way to add a splash of color.

Furthermore, unless you have air conditioning in your home, now is the time to remove heavy window treatments and go with something that can add to your spring decorations. Bamboo woven wood shades are a popular option for the spring, and they will add warmth and texture to living spaces. They are also available with an optional privacy liner so they can be used in bedrooms and bathrooms just as easily.

If you love the look of fabric shades, roman shades offer a timeless design that can work with any décor. These come in countless colors and styles and will add can be custom-made to fit any window. They work well in conjunction with lighter spring curtains, so be adventurous with your color choices to create a one-of-a-kind aesthetic for your space.

However, if you have air conditioning and you're not going to have your windows open during the spring and summer, you'll need an energy-efficient window treatment. Honeycomb cellular shades come in single or dual cell designs, and are designed to control air leakage in any home. They come in many colors and styles and will ensure that your air conditioning is not going on overdrive all day to cope with the changing temperatures. This will help to reduce your energy usage and could be one of the most cost-effective ways to reduce your utility bills.

Roller shades are another option to help reduce your energy usage, and they have been wildly popular among interior designers for years. These shades run on a track on the inside of the window and form a tight seal to prevent air from escaping to the outside. They are very easy to operate and could be the perfect option for elderly consumers who are looking for a window treatment that is simple to open and close.

No matter which one you choose, go into your spring home renewal with energy-efficiency on the brain. You can easily improve the look of your home, and do your part for the environment in the process.