Are you struggling to keep your Medford home comfortable during the hot summer months? Solar shades for windows could be the solution you’ve been looking for.
With over 30 years of experience serving Southern Oregon, Patio Covers Oregon founder Tim Hubbard knows a thing or two about battling the sun’s harsh rays.
In this article, we’ll share our top 3 expert tips for selecting and installing solar shades that will transform your Medford living space into a cool, inviting oasis.

Professional measuring and installing solar shades for a perfect window fit
1. Selecting the Right Solar Shade Material for Medford’s Climate
Medford’s unique weather conditions – hot summers and mild winters – call for solar shade materials that can withstand temperature fluctuations and provide year-round comfort.
Material | Durability | Energy Efficiency |
---|---|---|
Woven | High | Moderate |
Vinyl | Moderate | High |
Polyester Blends | High | High |
Consider these factors when choosing your shade material:
- Woven shades offer excellent durability but may allow more heat transfer
- Vinyl is highly energy-efficient but less durable than other options
- Polyester blends strike a balance between resilience and insulation
2. Balancing Light Control and Heat Reduction
The key to maximizing comfort with solar shades lies in finding the perfect balance between light control and heat reduction.
Different openness factors in shades impact this balance:
- Lower openness (1-3%) blocks more heat but allows less natural light
- Higher openness (5-10%) maintains brighter interiors but provides less insulation
Room Orientation | Recommended Openness Factor |
---|---|
East-facing | 3-5% |
West-facing | 1-3% |
South-facing | 3-5% |
Consider your room’s orientation when selecting shade openness:
- East and west-facing windows receive direct sunlight, so lower openness is ideal
- South-facing rooms benefit from slightly higher openness for better illumination
3. Proper Fit and Installation for Maximum Efficiency
Even the highest-quality solar shades won’t perform optimally without proper fit and installation.
At Patio Covers Oregon, we recommend:
- Professional measurement and installation for a perfect fit
- Careful alignment to prevent sagging or gaps
- Securing shades tightly to window frames to minimize air leakage
Installation Issue | Impact on Efficiency |
---|---|
Sagging | Reduced insulation |
Improper alignment | Increased heat transfer |
Loose fit | Diminished energy savings |
While DIY installation is possible, our experts can ensure your shades look great and function flawlessly for maximum energy savings.
Eco-Friendly and Sustainable Solar Shade Options in Medford
Environmentally conscious Medford homeowners will be pleased to know that eco-friendly solar shade materials are readily available.
Look for options like:
- Recycled polyester fabrics
- PVC-free vinyl
- Shades with Greenguard or Oeko-Tex certifications
These sustainable choices reduce your carbon footprint without compromising performance.
Maximize Comfort Without Sacrificing Views
One of the most common concerns we hear from Medford residents is, “Will solar shades block my beautiful outdoor views?”
With the right transparency level, you can enjoy glare-free living spaces while still appreciating your surroundings.
Patio Covers Oregon client Jane Smith opted for 5% openness shades in her east-facing living room.

Room with solar shades installed for UV protection and stunning outdoor views
Why Solar Shades Matter for Medford Homes
As a long-time Medford resident and business owner, I’ve seen firsthand the transformative power of solar shades for windows.
Not only do they provide immediate relief from oppressive summer heat, but they also offer long-term benefits like:
- Lower energy bills from reduced AC usage
- Protection for furniture, flooring, and artwork from fading
- Glare reduction for more comfortable TV viewing and computer work
Most importantly, solar shades allow you to reclaim your living spaces and enjoy your home to the fullest, no matter the weather outside.
So if you’re ready to experience a cooler, more inviting home this summer, give Patio Covers Oregon a call.
With our decades of expertise and commitment to quality, we’ll help you select and install the perfect solar shades for your Medford windows.
Your comfort is our top priority – let us help you achieve it.
FAQs
What is the best solar shade material for Medford, OR’s climate?
Polyester blends offer an ideal balance of durability and energy efficiency for Medford’s hot summers and mild winters. They withstand temperature fluctuations while providing excellent insulation.
How effective are solar shades in reducing heat and glare in Medford homes?
Solar shades can significantly reduce heat gain and glare in Medford homes, especially when paired with the right openness factor for your room’s orientation. Expect cooler, more comfortable living spaces and potential energy savings.
How do I ensure proper fit and installation of solar shades for maximum efficiency?
For optimal performance, we recommend professional measurement and installation. This ensures a tight fit, proper alignment, and minimal gaps for maximum insulation and energy efficiency. DIY installation is possible but may compromise shade function.
Are there eco-friendly solar shade options available in Medford?
Yes, Medford homeowners can choose from a variety of eco-friendly solar shade materials, including recycled polyester fabrics, PVC-free vinyl, and shades with Greenguard or Oeko-Tex certifications. These options prioritize sustainability without sacrificing performance.
How much light control do solar shades offer without compromising views?
Solar shades are available in various transparency levels, allowing you to balance light control and view preservation. Lower openness factors (1-3%) provide more room darkening, while higher openness (5-10%) maintains better visibility. Choose the level that suits your needs and preferences.