What To Do With A Sunny Window In Your Home

4 min read

Who doesn’t love a room with tons of natural light? It’s warm and open, and sunlight is a natural mood booster, turning a sunny window into something it actually feels good to be around! And in Birmingham, we have no shortage of sunny days.

But a window (and room) can get too much sun. The sunlight might make the room too hot to spend time in, and it will definitely make it hard to see your laptop, tablet, or TV screen. Even when it comes to windows in sunrooms, a lot of care goes into choosing the perfect style to keep the room comfortable.

So, what do you do when a window goes from being delightfully sunny to unbearable? Instead of just avoiding it, we have a few ways to turn that window into an asset instead of an inconvenience.

Tips to Make A Sunny Window More Comfortable

If you have a window that gets so much sun it makes the room uncomfortable, here’s how you can fix it.

1. Upgrade to Energy-Efficient Windows

If you have single-pane windows or your windows are more than 10-15 years old, upgrading to modern energy-efficient windows can make a huge difference in the way a too-sunny window feels. Features like low-emissivity glass limit the amount of solar heat that enters your home, while dual pane windows with insulation keep the temperature inside your home more consistent. 

Want more tips on keeping your home cooler in the summer? Here are more ways to stay cool when the temperature is high.

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2. Choose The Right Window Coverings

You want your curtains to look good, but if you have a window that’s too sunny, they should also work for you. That’s where thermal curtains come in.

You might think that thermal or blackout curtains are only for cold climates. That’s not the case! Thermal curtains are designed to keep both cold and hot temperatures from impacting your home’s interior temperatures. Thermal or blackout curtains are available in a variety of colors and fabrics, making it easy to find the perfect set of curtains for your home.

If you want to have an option between completely blocking the light and having full sun, layer sheer curtains with your blackout curtains. Sheer curtains will diffuse the light, making it less harsh and more manageable.

3. Create Shade

Sometimes you have to think outside the box. In this case, think outside the walls of your home! Create your own shade by planting a tree or two in your yard near your window. For central Alabama’s climate, magnolias, river birches, and sugar maples are all great choices. They’ll thrive in our warm, humid climate and provide shade for your sunny window and lawn!

How to Make the Most of a Sunny Window

Want to utilize the power of the sun? Here are a few ideas!

1. Turn it Into Your Own Greenhouse

Your window might be too sunny for you, but it’s probably perfect for your plants! Plants love indirect sunlight, which is simply sunlight that passes through a medium like a window. If you have amassed a collection of houseplants, move the ones that need full sun to this window and watch them thrive. 

Don’t have houseplants? Try growing your own herbs in your sunny windowsill! Herbs like basil, chives, and parsley are extremely easy to grow. Succulents are also great choices for beginners and they do best in bright light.

2. Start Your Day By The Window

Bright light may not sound like something you want first thing in the morning, but there are benefits to starting your day with some sunshine! Sunlight wakes your brain up and triggers the production of serotonin, a hormone that boosts mood and promotes feelings of calm and focus. Try sitting by your sunny window while you enjoy your breakfast and coffee. It’ll get your day started on the right foot!

bistro table in front of a bright window

3. Let Your Pets Enjoy The Sun

Anyone with a cat knows there are few things they love more than napping in the sun. Why not turn your too-sunny window into a haven for their catnaps? Cat window perches suction cup to your windows and allow your cats to see all the great outdoors has to offer or get some rest. They’re available in a variety of styles and sizes so you can find the perfect one for your feline friend.

You can also opt for step perches, which are just a set of window-height steps with a larger platform at the top. These are perfect for cats and smaller dogs to enjoy the sunshine! For larger dogs, try moving their bed or favorite chair near the window.

Make Your Home More Comfortable With Window World of Central Alabama

If you have questions about how replacement windows can increase your home’s comfort, we have answers! Explore our window styles to learn more or request your free estimate to speak with one of our team members.