Place them above the windows on the south side of your home, and you'll reduce incoming heat up to 60 percent or more. Place awnings above windows located on the eastern side of your home, and you can cut incoming heat nearly 80 percent. When you select an awning, choose a light-colored one that reflects sunlight rather than absorbs it. Keep your awnings up only during the summer months. Keeping them off during the cooler months will help you enjoy maximum warmth.
Shutters are a very attractive but expensive choice.
The cheaper versions sometimes do not come with hinges that give you access to your windows so that you can open and shut them. Shades that roll up and down are easy to use and maintain, but when they're down, they block out light almost entirely. That could be a disadvantage depending upon your individual needs and preferences. In addition, solar shades help prevent glare and provide privacy from the outside because they're tinted. If you're on the hunt for indoor drapes or curtains, your best bet is to choose light-colored materials that are also opaque.