Natural light can make any home feel more open, pleasant, and inviting. It not only improves the atmosphere, but it also offers proven health advantages, such as mood enhancement and better sleep. By carefully considering window placement and design, you can increase the quantity of natural light that enters your home.
If you’re thinking about upgrading your windows, here are a few expert tips from our window installation team to consider:
- Prioritize South-Facing Windows: One of the most effective methods for increasing natural light is to install large, south-facing windows. These windows get the most sunshine during the day, especially in the winter when the sun is lower in the sky. South-facing windows are ideal for living areas and kitchens, where enough natural light can brighten and revitalize the space.
- Choose Tall and Wide Windows: Choosing larger windows is a simple way to let more light into the home. Floor-to-ceiling windows or large casement windows have major impacts. These window designs can help dark or small rooms feel bigger by flooding them with light.
- Awning and Hopper Windows: Awning windows have hinges at the top and open outward from the bottom, just like awnings you might use on your deck. This makes them perfect for higher wall placements that allow sunlight in while providing privacy and ventilation, even in rainy weather. Hopper windows, on the other hand, have hinges at the bottom and open inward. They are generally installed lower on walls or in basements to direct light into smaller locations. Both types are adaptable and can improve both air flow and lighting.
- Think About Reflective Surfaces: Reflective elements such as mirrors or glossy surfaces on walls and furniture can help to increase the effect of natural lighting. These surfaces help to bounce light about the room, increasing the brightness from your windows.
