This time of year, as the days grow shorter and the nights get longer, we cherish those precious hours of sunlight that brighten our homes during the fall and winter months.
But if the interior of your house has taken a detour to the dark side, consider these simple tips to increase the amount of natural light that comes in during the day.
- Treat your windows to a thorough cleaning.
We recommend deep cleaning your windows at least twice a year to keep them free of dirt and debris. In most cases, unless you have windows that are difficult to reach, you can do this yourself with a few simple supplies: a sponge, a squeegee, some extra rags, warm water, and dishwashing soap.
To begin, clear the area around your windows so you can easily reach them. Mix one gallon of warm water with one drop of dish-washing soap. (If your windows are particularly dirty, try adding a drop or two of white vinegar.) Using a hand-held sponge, wash the window border to remove any dirt and grime. Next, carefully clean the window glass and use the squeegee to clean off the solution. Gently use a rag or soft cloth to dry the window pane and remove any streaks.
- Lighten up your décor.
Oftentimes, a few simple changes to your interior décor can make all the difference.
While those dark-colored blackout drapes are helpful during the long, hot days of summer, this time of year swapping them out for lightweight fabrics and lighter hues can go a long way toward brightening up a room. The same goes for accent pieces like pillows, rugs, and blankets.
Feeling a little more adventurous? Choose a lighter, brighter paint color (or complementary palette) to help reflect the natural light that enters your home—and not just your walls, but the ceiling, trim, and window sashes, too.
- Install new or larger windows.
Just because your home was built with a certain number of same-size windows doesn’t mean that’s all you’re allowed for the duration of your stay. Installing additional windows or upgrading your current windows to a larger size is a great way to let in more natural light.
And while we’re on the subject, why stop at windows? Aluminum or vinyl sliding glass doors are a beautiful addition to any space and a popular option for homeowners looking to increase the amount of natural light that enters the home.
- Keep your landscaping under control.
Finally, do a little late-in-the-year landscaping and trim back any unruly trees and shrubs outside your windows. Clearing the area around the exterior of your windows is a simple way to make sure the most natural light is able to enter your home.
Thinking about upgrading your windows? Contact XO Windows for a free estimate.
As the largest window distributor in Arizona, XO windows can answer all of your questions about replacing your existing windows or adding new windows to brighten up your home. Our expert window consultants can help you make the best choices for your budget and style, so be sure to give us a call at (602) 455-6616 or fill out our online form for a free estimate.