Make your home cosy and warm with winter curtains
- Kerrin Auld
- Consultant
In short
Windows are where a lot of your home’s warmth escapes in winter — up to 40% of your heating. Thermal curtains in heavier, densely woven fabrics with a good thermal lining cut that heat loss, and they work best with a snug, floor-to-ceiling fit. Paired with draught stoppers, a honeycomb blind and well-sealed windows, the right curtains can keep your home cosy and trim your heating costs by as much as 25%.
New Zealand's winters can be unforgiving, with chilly winds, frequent rain, and temperatures that seem to cut right through to the bone. But what if your curtains could be your home's secret weapon against the cold? With the right curtains you can transform your living spaces into warm, inviting sanctuaries.
Table of contents
How do winter curtains keep heat in?
When temperatures drop, windows become significant sources of heat loss. In fact, up to 40% of your home's heating can escape through poorly insulated windows. This is where thermal curtains for winter become more than just a decorative element – they're a practical solution to keeping your home warm and energy-efficient.
What makes a great winter curtain?
Not all curtains are created equal, especially when it comes to insulating your home against the winter chill. The best winter curtains combine a couple of key characteristics:
Fabric density and weight
Heavier fabrics naturally provide better insulation. Wool blends, velvet, and triple weave fabrics are all great choices for improving the warmth of your home.
Insulation technology
Modern thermal curtains can also feature advanced thermal properties through the use of thermal linings. These linings can be applied as a layered spray coating with each layer adding more insultation, or they may utilise special weaving techniques that trap air and reduce heat transfer.
Which heading style is best for winter curtains?
Classic, elegant design
Tight folds reduce air circulation
Excellent for traditional and modern interiors
Modern, clean look
Less effective at blocking drafts due to the gaps along the top
Best paired with additional insulation techniques
Not a curtain, per se, but an excellent insulating option
Can be fitted just outside the window frame for full coverage
A sleek blind look with the warmth of a fabric
It’s worth thinking about your curtain heading style here too, as the right one helps reduce draughts and keep more warmth in the room.
Why does a perfect fit matter for thermal efficiency?
When it comes to maximising the efficiency of your new curtains, getting the right fit is crucial. Luckily for you, when you get your curtains and blinds from Russells, we’ll take care of all the measuring and installation to make sure it’s a perfect fit every time.
If thermal insulation is one of your primary reasons for getting new curtains, our consultants will usually recommend the following for the best results:
• Consider floor-to-ceiling curtains for maximum insulation
What else can I do to insulate my windows in winter?
While thermal curtains are powerful, they work best as part of a holistic approach. Using draught stoppers, layering curtains with a thermal honeycomb blind, and regularly checking and repairing your window seals are all excellent ways to further insulate your windows this winter.
Are thermal curtains worth the cost?
Thermal window treatments are more than just a seasonal purchase – they're a long-term investment in home comfort and energy efficiency. While high-quality thermal curtains might seem expensive upfront, the potential cost savings are significant. Consider the annual energy savings: a well-insulated set of curtains can reduce heating costs by up to 25%, potentially offsetting their initial price within a few seasons.
The key is to balance initial cost with performance and durability.
Cheaper curtains might save money in the short term, but they often lack the insulating properties and longevity of more carefully crafted options. Look for curtains that offer the best value – those with robust thermal backing, high-quality fabric, and construction that will withstand multiple winters. Remember, you're not just buying a window covering; you're investing in your home's warmth, energy efficiency, and overall comfort. Sometimes spending a bit more upfront can lead to substantial savings and improved quality of life in the long run.
Our expert consultants can come to you for a free in-home consultation to help you find the perfect winter curtains tailored specifically to your space. Your consultant will: • Assess your windows and room layout • Provide personalised thermal curtain recommendations • Measure your spaces with precision • Discuss colour and style options that complement your home Book your free, no-obligation consultation today and experience the difference professional guidance can make.
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Guides
Choosing the right curtains for your home
Not sure which curtains will suit your home? Find out everything you need to know with this free guide.
Frequently asked questions
Do thermal curtains really keep a home warmer?
Yes. Up to 40% of your home’s heating can escape through poorly insulated windows, and thermal curtains help trap that warmth inside. A well-insulated set can reduce heating costs by up to 25%, so they pay for themselves over a few seasons.
What fabric is best for warm winter curtains?
Heavier, densely woven fabrics insulate best — wool blends, velvet and triple weave fabrics are all good choices. Adding a thermal lining, which traps air and slows heat transfer, boosts the warmth further.
Does the fit of my curtains affect how warm they keep the room?
Very much so. A snug, well-measured fit stops warm air slipping around the edges, and floor-to-ceiling curtains give the most insulation. When you order from Russells we handle the measuring and installation so the fit is right every time.
Besides curtains, how else can I insulate my windows in winter?
Thermal curtains work best alongside other simple measures — use draught stoppers, layer your curtains with a thermal honeycomb blind, and check and repair your window seals regularly to keep the cold out.
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