One of the most crucial elements in healthy plant growth is adequate sunlight. All plants need light for photosynthesis, a process of turning light, oxygen, and water into energy. However, it is vital to ensure that your plants only receive the amount of light that is required. A plant will dry out, have its leaves burned, and eventually die from an excess of light. Additionally, excessive light will hinder photosynthesis and limit plant growth. On the other hand, insufficient light will have the same effect.
Knowing how much and what kind of natural light you receive inside your home will help you choose the perfect spot for your houseplant. Like outdoor plants, indoor plants have a wide range of light preferences. And since windows are essential to delivering sufficient natural light for your plants, homeowners strive to carefully plan their home renovation when it comes to window replacement.
That is why we have contacted various window experts, so they share the most recent insights when installing windows that ensure maximum natural light. Keep reading to learn more!
What Are the Best Positions for Plants?
To figure out the intensity of the light flowing in, it’s also crucial to pay attention to the direction your window faces.
- North-facing windows: These windows frequently feature quite deep shade throughout and tend to have the lowest light intensity. These windows are typically not ideal for plant development in winter. However, during summer, shade-loving plants can thrive in a north-facing window.
- South-facing windows: Windows that face south will get the most direct sunshine all day. The sun rises in the East, swings to the South, and eventually sets in the West, whether it is Summer or Winter. Plants that require full sun will flourish in this area since it offers the best light intensity for photosynthesis, allowing for relatively rapid growth.
- East-facing windows: These windows receive the first waning rays of sunlight in the morning because the sun always rises in the East. Direct sunlight usually stops shining through these windows by mid-morning or mid-afternoon, depending on the time of year. Plants that require only morning or moderate sunshine frequently do well in east windows.
- West-facing windows: The sun will ultimately begin to shine through the west-facing windows as the day wears on and continue to do so until it sets and nighttime arrives. The afternoon sun can be too intense for the plants; however, your sun-loving plants will flourish well in a west-facing window.
What are the Best Window Styles for Natural Light?
When selecting replacement windows, you don’t want to be so preoccupied with their features and functions that you neglect to consider how much light they will let into your house. Here are a few window styles that we recommend for optimum sunlight.
- Picture windows: Install a series of floor-to-ceiling windows if you want to bring more natural light and create a statement at the same time. Wide and tall picture windows are fixed windows that don’t slide or swing open and are best for letting in as much natural light as possible.
These windows are a good option when you prefer only natural light and nothing more. With today’s glass technology, you can capture the light at various times of day without worrying about heat or cold transfer. Moreover, these units are also the most energy-efficient ones, allowing you to lower your energy bills significantly. They do not open, so homeowners usually install picture windows in living rooms for unobstructed views outside and much natural light for various plants.
- Sliding Windows: These windows are ideal type windows for rooms that overlook patios, landscapes, and walkways. Their full design allows a lot of natural light and fresh air to enter. There is no hassle in using them because they are stylish and simple to use.
Sliding windows come in a variety of window designs. The position is typically held at or above chest height. The window sills and elaborate casing enhance their design. These windows are ideal for providing controlled natural light in your home. When it comes to energy efficiency, sliders perform quite well but still are inferior to picture units due to their wide openings for air control. These models are a go-to option for modern house designs.
- Bay or bow windows: if you have never noticed the amount of light they let into a home, you are missing out! It is absolutely necessary to experience the aesthetics and how broad bay windows illuminate a home.
Think about the benefits of energy-efficient bay windows when you’re planning to get new or replacement windows for your house. Not only can bay or bow windows increase space by bringing in light, but their insulated frames also make them energy-efficient, allowing you to up to 15% more of your energy expenditures compared to standard units. These windows are mostly installed in living areas, sitting rooms, and master bedrooms.
What Else to Consider?
While keeping the amount of natural light your new window brings is important, you also want to ensure your windows perform well in terms of energy efficiency and daily operation. So before buying & installing new windows, check whether they are:
- Energy Star-rated
This organization performs various tests to make sure your windows are energy efficient. So opt only for units tested and approved by Energy Star. Ask your window company for specifications (Energy Rating).
- Correct installation
DIY here is not an option. You need a professional installation to ensure the windows perform to their maximum for the next 25 years at least. That is why we recommend dealing with skilled licensed window installers, ensuring adequate installation and providing a lifetime warranty for their products.
Final thoughts
Our indoor plants need light to thrive and survive. Without it, growth is constrained, sluggish, or nonexistent because it is an essential component required for photosynthesis. A plant’s ideal placement for decorating might not be the best place to grow. The most frequent factor preventing plants from growing in many parts of the house is a lack of sufficient light. This article covers the ideal window spots and styles for your plants. Follow this guide and watch your plants blossom!
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