My house faces west and gets direct Texas afternoon sun. The front porch was an oven and the unbearable heat was getting through the windows into the living room, AC was working all the time. The difference these shades provide is significant. My feral cats have a comfortable refuge now from the heat and my living room is really cool and the AC finally gets a break. The shades look very good. I received many complements from my neighbors. The shades block some light but in my case it is a welcoming change. Installation was very easy. No special skills required. You need a basic screwdriver and a ladder. I also used a bit longer screws than those which were provided. I highly recommend this product.