Natural light, or sunlight, is a great way to make your home feel warm and welcoming. More than that, there are serious benefits to choosing natural light over artificial lighting methods when you can. Luckily, several of our window styles offer extended glass space to allow maximum sunlight.
Keep reading to explore the benefits of natural light and discover which windows allow the most sunlight in. We even have some tips on mimicking natural light in rooms that lack windows.
Benefits of Natural Light in your Home
Natural Mood Booster
Neuroscientists have studied the impact of natural light on mood and mental health. Their findings? That natural light increases the amount of serotonin (the “happy” hormone) the brain produces. An increase in serotonin means more motivation and feelings of peace and calm.
Higher Productivity
Whether you work from home or just like to spend your free time being as productive as possible, natural light is a must. A study by researchers at Cornell found that office workers reported a 40% increase in productivity after being moved to an office with low-E glass. (And approximately 68% reported they had a little more or a lot more energy!)
Easier on the Eyes
Studies have shown that natural light is less stressful on your eyes than artificial light. Additional studies have shown that it may actually help reduce the risk of nearsightedness in children. If you’re looking for ways to give your eyes a rest, consider incorporating natural light into your home, especially in the areas you or your family work or read.
The Best Windows for Natural Light
Believe it or not, certain types of windows are better for getting more natural light into your home. Here are a few of the best:
Bay and Bow Windows
Bay windows have three glass panels and bow windows have four or five. They’re large, beautiful, and allow maximum natural light into your home. As a bonus, they expand your living space and add more seating to your room with charming window seats.
Our bay and bow windows come in a variety of beautiful colors to match your home’s decor. And with our low-E glass, you don’t have to worry about losing energy efficiency just because your windows are larger.
3-Lite Sliding Windows
Since this window style is wider than most, it provides panoramic views, plenty of ventilation, and an abundance of natural light. They’re a great choice for your kitchen, bathroom, or any area that has more horizontal space than vertical.
Window World Sliding Windows have Clarity mesh screens which allow you to enjoy clear views and fresh air anytime the window is open. And with energy efficient low-E glass, you can enjoy natural light while minimizing harmful UV rays.
Custom Windows
With our custom windows, you can design windows that allow as much natural light as you want! By combining window shapes and styles, you can create a window that matches your home and allows maximum natural light.
Our custom windows provide all the energy efficient benefits you expect from Window World, simply customized to your taste.
Adding Natural Light Without Windows
Of course, it’s not always possible to choose natural light (your basement, for instance, is one area of your house you’ll probably have to rely on electricity to illuminate). No worries! There are other ways to mimic the effects of natural light.
Lightbulbs
Choosing the right lightbulbs can make all the difference. Full-spectrum light bulbs simulate daylight by providing soft, bright light and removing the yellow color cast many other lightbulbs give off. These are affordable and available wherever you buy lightbulbs.
Evenly Light the Room
While it might be tempting to add extra light to the areas of the room you use most, this isn’t a good idea. Extra light in one area makes the rest of the room look even darker. If your overhead lighting doesn’t adequately illuminate the room, choose lamps with full-spectrum bulbs to strategically place in the areas that need more light.
Mirrors
Adding wall mirrors to your decor in rooms that lack windows is an easy way to amplify the light you do have and make your space feel larger. Large mirrors with frames can mimic the look and feel of windows.
Transform Your Home With Natural Light
If you’re ready to add more natural light to your home with new windows, make Window World your first choice. Browse our window styles to find the one that’s perfect for your home. Then, get started by scheduling your free in-home or virtual estimate to discuss your options and learn more about Window World products.