Although sunlight has many benefits, such as bringing more natural brightness to a room and vitamin D to your skin, there are ways to make your living space much cooler and more comfortable. So, if you want to know how to keep a room cool that faces the sun, thankfully, there are a few practical ways that do not all include running your HVAC system constantly.
Install Awnings
Awnings will not directly affect the temperature inside your room, but they will help block some direct sunlight and provide shade. So even if you decide to leave your windows open on a hot day, an awning still allows for fresh, cool air to enter the room. The other beneficial thing about awnings is that they come in various styles, many of them adjustable and retractable, so you can find one that works for your home and needs.
Install Window Treatments
Before we dive more into the specifics of window treatments, you should investigate the windows themselves, particularly if it’s an older home. Consider switching from standard double-pane windows to energy-efficient ones if possible. These will significantly reduce the amount of heat that comes in without blocking the light.
If it seems as though your current windows are the culprit, but your budget doesn’t allow for new ones, consider the fact that you will cut costs on energy use over time. Still, the up-front costs aren’t for everyone, but drapes, blinds, and curtains are a highly beneficial addition to your windows – new or not.
Blinds with reflective backing reflect most of the heat that hits them, keeping the heat out and even minimizing glare. The only thing about curtains that bounce the heat outward is that the light won’t be absorbed by your room either, so you’ll be reducing the natural lighting as well. Adjustable blinds or roller shades can help solve this by allowing you to control the amount of each that comes in.
Finally, curtains or drapes can help. They won’t completely block out the sun, but you can find affordable ones that complement your home.
Utilize Outdoor Plants
If you want to know how to keep a room cool that faces the sun in a way that enhances the natural beauty and curb appeal of your entire home, large-leafed plants, shrubs, and trees are the way to go. Plant them outside your room’s windows as a great natural way to produce more shade and air circulation. In addition, they will absorb the sun’s UV rays, which will significantly reduce your room’s exposure to the sun.
Outside, Areca Palm Trees can tolerate full sun. When the sunlight is too severe, however, it can scorch their foliage. Inside, they do well with the filtered sunlight from a south or west-facing window and act as a natural humidifier.
You can also consider planting deciduous shade trees such as oak, walnut, ash, and bald cypress. Just be mindful not to plant them too close to your room so they won’t cause damage to your home.
