When winter settles over Appleton and the Fox Valley, homeowners feel the chill inside and out. The icy winds and shorter days make it the perfect time to focus on comfort—and one of the best ways to do that is by upgrading your window treatments.
If you’ve read our previous article, Stay Warm and Save Energy with Smart Window Treatments, you already know that your window coverings can do more than just look great. In this article, we’ll highlight the top window treatment styles that help Appleton homeowners stay cozy, reduce heat loss, and save on energy bills all winter long.
Whether you’re in Neenah, Menasha, or Oshkosh, cold drafts and rising heating costs are familiar struggles. Let’s explore how the right window coverings can transform your home into a warm, energy-efficient retreat this season.
The Role of Window Coverings in Winter Comfort
Your windows do more than let in light—they also play a big role in your home’s temperature. Even modern double-pane windows can lose warmth, especially when left uncovered. That’s where insulated and layered window treatments come in.
By creating a thermal barrier, these coverings help your home retain heat, reduce energy use, and keep you more comfortable through Wisconsin’s long, frigid winters. Studies show that up to 30% of a home’s heating energy can be lost through windows, so the right window treatments can make a major impact on your energy savings.
Roller Shades: Streamlined Style with Function
For a more modern and minimalist feel, roller shades are a great option. When made with the right thermal or blackout fabric, they can help trap heat and maintain warmth without adding bulk to your windows.
If you want flexibility, dual roller shades let you enjoy light-filtering fabric during the day and full blackout coverage at night—ideal for open living areas, kitchens, and home offices.
Cellular Shades: A Smart Choice for Insulation
If keeping your home warm efficiently is your goal, cellular shades—also known as honeycomb shades—are a perfect fit. Their unique design traps air inside small honeycomb pockets, acting as insulation that prevents heat from escaping.
For the best results, choose double-cell or blackout options. These shades not only improve insulation but also give you better light control and privacy, which makes them a top pick for Appleton’s coldest days and nights.
Roman Shades: Classic Warmth Meets Elegant Design
Roman shades are ideal for homeowners who want their space to feel both warm and refined. Made from rich, layered fabrics, Roman shades naturally help insulate your windows. When lined with a thermal backing, they can significantly reduce drafts.
Pair them with custom drapery for added depth and warmth. This combination enhances your home’s comfort while adding timeless texture and sophistication—perfect for cozy living rooms or bedrooms during the Wisconsin winter.
Plantation Shutters: Durable, Stylish, and Insulating
Plantation shutters aren’t just for warm climates—they’re also great for cold-weather homes like those in the Appleton area. Their sturdy construction and snug fit provide natural insulation, blocking drafts and helping to maintain a consistent indoor temperature.
Choose wood or composite shutters for the best results. They’re energy-efficient, durable, and give your home a refined, high-end look that never goes out of style.
Drapery and Curtains: Layering for Maximum Warmth
Nothing says “cozy” quite like thick, lined drapery. Fabrics such as velvet, wool, and thermal-backed materials work wonders in keeping out the cold.
For the best insulation, layer drapery over cellular or Roman shades. This layered approach adds an extra thermal barrier while giving your space a polished, designer finish. Plus, it allows for better light control throughout the day.
Motorized Shades: Smart Control for Warmth and Efficiency
With motorized shades, you can adjust your window coverings effortlessly—by remote, smartphone, or even voice command. Schedule them to open during the day to capture natural sunlight and close automatically at dusk to retain heat.
Smart automation ensures your home stays comfortable while optimizing energy efficiency—especially useful during those dark winter mornings when you’d rather stay under the covers.
The Custom Advantage: Made for Your Home
Store-bought blinds and shades can leave small gaps that let cold air sneak through. That’s why custom window treatments make a big difference. At Made in the Shade Appleton, we take precise measurements for each window to ensure a perfect, gap-free fit that maximizes insulation.
Our design experts will guide you in choosing the best fabrics, materials, and styles to match your décor while enhancing comfort and energy performance. From consultation to installation, we make the process seamless and stress-free.
Layering Window Treatments for Added Insulation
Layering window treatments isn’t just about aesthetics—it’s one of the most effective ways to improve insulation. Combining different types of coverings, such as shutters with drapery or roller shades with honeycomb shades, creates multiple barriers that help keep the warm air in and the cold out.
Why Choose Made in the Shade Appleton
At Made in the Shade Appleton, we specialize in custom window treatments that combine style, performance, and energy efficiency. Serving homeowners across Appleton, Neenah, Menasha, and the Fox Valley, we bring the showroom to you—so you can see fabrics, colors, and options right in your own space.
We proudly carry trusted brands like Graber, Alta, and Norman, offering everything from modern motorized shades to traditional plantation shutters. Our team is dedicated to helping you create a home that’s warm, inviting, and energy-smart—all year long.
Ready to Stay Warm This Winter?
If you’re ready to make your home more comfortable and energy-efficient, now’s the perfect time to upgrade your window treatments. Schedule your Free In-Home Consultation today with Made in the Shade Appleton, and discover how custom window coverings can transform your home this winter and beyond.
