Natural light has many benefits. It can help you feel happy and energized, while sunlight has health benefits such as boosting vitamin D production in your body. There are several ways you can brighten your home without artificial lighting. The following options can help make your home more energy efficient and improve your overall well-being.
Lighter Paint
Painting your walls and ceilings a brighter color can add more light to your home. Pure white has a Light Reflectance Value (LRV) of 100%, while black has an LRV of 0%. Paint your eves white as well; light reflected off the overhangs into your house brighten things up naturally.
Skylight
A skylight is a type of window that is installed in your ceiling. It is perhaps the most direct way of bringing natural light inside, as it faces upward towards the sun. Even sunlight reflected off clouds is let in. Skylights are known for consistent lighting because they’re less likely to be in the shadow of trees, bushes, buildings, and other objects.
Sunroom
In a sunroom, one wall is covered by glass panels, creating an extra-large window space. This provides ample natural illumination (although this varies depending on location and orientation). A sunroom, skywall, or atrium bathes your house in light and provides a superior view.
Interior Windows
The more windows inside your home, the more natural light that can reach deeper rooms. The glass can be installed above eye level, maintaining privacy. Interior windows don’t only have to be fixed. Operable models can be opened to improve airflow and allow natural cross ventilation between rooms.
Transoms
When you see a window atop another window or door, this is a transom. It has long been respected for its aesthetic appeal. Transoms can be used above indoor windows to gain light without eliminating wall space or privacy.
Arch Windows
Arch and radius windows create a half circle above another door or window. They also contrast with rigid rectangular shapes. There are many options, including radiating bars, fixed windows, and operable ones to allow in fresh air in addition to extra light.
Glass Doors
If you have a small space, a glass door can really open things up. It can provide another entrance or exit, especially if you have an old home that might not have one. Common glass doors to consider include:
- Patio Doors: Add convenience and style as well as light, while providing an easy way to get to and from your outdoor space and maximize its function.
- Folding/Sliding Doors: Aside from eliminating space-hogging pivoting doors, a folding door is great for ventilation; sliding doors in general are very easy to use.
- French Doors: Two matching doors for patios, porches, or other rear exit points, often with multiple glass panes; one door is usually kept closed but both can be opened if necessary.
Call a Professional to Help Improve Natural Lighting
At Window World of Boston, we offer many choices of doors and windows that can brighten your home and improve energy efficiency. We install double-hung, casement/awning, bay/bow, garden, and other windows as well as sliding and hinged patio doors. Our installers are highly experienced, adhere to strict standards of excellence, and offer lead-safe and cold weather installation. In addition, we are conducting virtual consultations and practicing social distancing during in-home estimates and installation appointments to protect you and our technicians from COVID-19. Call us at 781-262-3925 and we’ll be glad to assist you during work hours; our current schedule is as follows:
| Tuesday | 10AM–2PM |
| Wednesday | 10AM–2PM |
| Thursday | 10AM–2PM |
| Friday | 10AM–2PM |
| Saturday | Closed |
| Sunday | Closed |
| Monday | 10AM–2PM |
