At Droitwich Shutters, we’re always looking for independent, third-party evidence to back up what we experience on the the ground: that high-quality shutters are a smart investment – not just for looks, but for energy saving and keeping your home warm in the winter. In 2023, the British Blind and Shutter Association (BBSA) published ground-breaking lab tests from the University of Salford’s Energy House, showing how different window shading products reduce heat loss.
The data showed that window coverings could reduce heat loss by up to 33%
The research in a nutshell
- Created by the BBSA & The University of Salford
- 5 window coverings were tested
- Temperatures from -12℃ to 30℃
- Tested in a mock 20th century terraced house
How did BBSA complete the research?
The Energy House is a full-scale 20th century mock terraced house placed in a climate chamber so that conditions (temperature, wind, solar radiation) can be tightly controlled. The researchers tested five shading systems on a standard double-glazed window, tested under lab conditions replicating rain, wind, and a range of temperatures from -12℃ to 30℃.
The purpose was to measure how much each window covering reduced heat loss by monitoring how much less heat escaped through the glazed area when the shading was in place.
The data from this study is being used to support BBSA’s campaign, Blinds Make Better, to show how different window coverings can be used to insulate homes through reducing heat loss. The campaign aims to demonstrate that blinds and shutters can keep your home warmer in the winter and cooler in the summer.
It’s important to remember that this study was conducted under ideal, controlled conditions, with perfect installations and no wear and tear, but it gives a solid benchmark we can use. In real life, some of the window covering may score lower due to looser fit, sagging over time (for fabric blinds), air flow (if shutters are poorly fitted) and many other reasons.
The results
- Roller blind fitted with zip side channels with low-e fabric: 33%
- Blockout honeycomb blind in a framed bead fit system: 32%
- Internal plantation shutter: 28%
- Roller blinds with fitted side channels: 22%
- Standard roller blind: 13%
What do the experts say about this research?
Andrew Chalk, director of operations at the BBSA, called the research ‘vital’ and highlighted its importance as consumers in the UK continue to make energy-saving a top priority. David Farmer, Energy House Research Fellow at the University of Salford, said: “The work the BBSA has undertaken at the University of Salford Energy House test facility will inform the design of energy efficient window coverings and assist energy conscious consumers.”
What does this mean for you?
If you’re looking for a window covering that saves energy, shutters are a great choice. While they came slightly behind for heat loss, they are more accessible and far more durable than the top two options. As a homeowner who wants to benefit from heat retention for a long time, shutters can ensure you make savings consistently. Particularly if you have children or pets!
