3 Key Benefits of Bringing More Natural Light into Your Home
One of the most important elements in architecture is natural light. It is why all dwellings, from the earliest caves to the most modern homes, have holes carved out. Windows and doors give you access to ventilation, the outdoors, and of course, light. Can you imagine your home without any windows? It would be dark, stuffy, and enclosed. Most people don’t find that appealing and it can be difficult function well without getting at least some sunshine. Here is what you need to know about the importance of windows to get more natural light in your home:
Natural Circadian Rhythms
Circadian rhythms are the mental, behavioral, and physical changes that seem to follow a daily cycle. They typically involve sleep schedules, hormone release, eating habits, digestion, and other important functions. Almost all living things have circadian rhythms and many of them are light-related. Circadian rhythms are why we feel compelled to sleep at night and wake during the day. And a lack of natural sunlight can throw off these daily rhythms. This can cause various conditions like sleep disorders, eating disorders, and behavioral problems.
Health and Happiness
Vitamin D is essential. It supports immune system regulation, calcium absorption, and bone growth, as well as body weight maintenance. And sunlight exposure is the primary way people receive the right amount of vitamin D. Sunlight is also a natural stimulant. It can reduce eyestrain, improve focus, and increase productivity. So not only do you feel better, but you can get more accomplished.
Energy Savings
Natural light can save you money in two ways: heating and electricity. The sun is a powerful source of heat and light. Approximately 47% of the energy used in your home goes to space heating or cooling and artificial lighting. Through your windows, you can get heat transfer to warm your home in winter so your HVAC system doesn’t have to work as hard. And in the United States, electric lighting consumes more than 15% of generated electricity. By choosing windows that allow in more natural light, you can reduce both energy costs and reduce greenhouse gasses.
How Can I Get More Daylight in my Home?
Windows play a big part. To get more sunlight through your current windows, trim trees that might be blocking your windows. You can also consider replacing heavy drapes and window coverings with lighter material that allows light to filter through. And don’t forget to keep your windows clean.
Next, consider your home orientation and how the sun travels. Which windows can help you capitalize on more natural sunlight? Typically east and west facing windows will get the most exposure. Adding more windows to these areas of your home can open up space and improve the light.
Lastly, think about the size and shape of your windows. Short, wide windows do not catch as much sunlight. Larger, taller windows are what you want if your home to get more daylight. Consider replacing certain windows with larger styles.
If you are interested in getting replacement windows, contact Home Supply Window and Door. You can call 973-949-5401. Or stop by 160 Van Winkle Ave, Hawthorne, NJ 07506 to check out our wide variety of high-quality products that can help make a night to day changes in your home.