"first, we sealed all the edges with weatherstripping tape (super easy DIY), then layered sheer curtains behind heavier drapes."
We did something similar with our bay windows a few years back—weatherstripping was definitely the MVP there. I'm curious though, has anyone noticed a significant difference in energy savings after installing smart blinds alone? They're tempting for aesthetics and convenience, but I'm wondering if the energy payoff is noticeable enough to justify the cost...
Smart blinds are gorgeous, no doubt, but honestly...I didn't see a huge energy difference after installing mine. If you're really after savings, investing in quality thermal curtains or better insulation might give you more bang for your buck. Just my two cents.
Had a similar experience myself—installed smart blinds expecting some noticeable savings...but the difference was pretty negligible on my energy bill. From a design perspective, they're sleek and convenient, sure, but if you're aiming purely for energy efficiency, thermal curtains or window films usually have a bigger impact. Also, checking your window seals and weather stripping can help more than you'd think. Not as exciting as blinds moving on their own, I know, but practicality wins sometimes!
I've noticed the same thing in several homes I've built. Smart blinds are great for convenience and aesthetics, but energy savings tend to be overstated. Like you mentioned, sealing windows and doors properly makes a bigger difference overall. Another thing people overlook is attic insulation—it's not flashy, but it can drastically cut down heating and cooling costs. Curious if anyone here has compared energy savings from smart blinds to other smart home upgrades like thermostats or lighting?
We recently installed smart blinds and a smart thermostat around the same time, so it's hard to pinpoint exactly which one is saving more energy. But honestly, the thermostat seems to make a bigger difference overall. It adjusts automatically when we're away or asleep, and I've noticed our monthly bills dropping noticeably. The blinds are nice for comfort and privacy, but energy-wise... probably not as impactful. Has anyone tried smart lighting yet? Wondering if that's worth looking into next.
