Controlling Summer Solar Heat in Your Home

Suggestions for controlling summer solar heat gain:
Shade east and west windows
"A variety of shading devices can be used to control unwanted summer sun through east-and west-facing windows. The choice typically boils down to personal preference and cost. Some examples are deciduous trees, porches, awnings, or exterior shade screens.

Install solar control films or screens
"Special reflective films can be applied directly to windows and skylights to control summer sun. Though effective, they are sometimes aesthetically objectionable
because of their shiny appearance.

Close reflective drapes or blinds
"If you can't easily shade the outside of your east and west-facing windows from the sun, your next best solution is to close sun-reflective blinds, drapes, or moveable window insulation on the inside of the windows during sunny days. To be most effective, the outer surface of these shades must be a light color.

Window Replacement
"Deciding whether or not to replace old windows can be a difficult decision. Certainly new windows will be much better energy performers if high-performance, air-tight models are selected. But the cost of window replacement is rarely justified by energy savings alone. Replacement usually only makes sense if your existing windows are rotted or otherwise in extremely poor shape.
"If your windows are in good shape or easily repairable (new glazing, replacement of broken panes, repainting, etc.), you will probably be better off keeping them and adding separate exterior storm windows or interior energy panels. A professional energy auditor or home performance contractor can help you decide whether window replacement is justified. Be wary of making the decision based on recommendations from someone (typically a distributor of storm or replacement windows) who stands
to make money based on your choice."

From Chapter 4 of The Virginia Energy Savers Handbook 2008: Department of Mechanical Engineering of Virginia Tech Blacksburg, VA 24060