Emergency
We've been helping Australians for 100 years
Using external shade cloths, shutters and external blinds to block out as much light as possible from the outside can help reduce indoor temperatures.
Once your home heats up it can take time and energy to cool down. External window shades can be one of the best ways to keep your home cool during a heatwave as they help prevent heat reaching the glass in the first place.
There are a number of external shade solutions, such as window awnings and external blinds that can help reduce the amount your home heats up and help reduce your reliance on air conditioning.
These windows get the most heat. Windows that face west receive the hottest afternoon sun.
Outdoor blinds and shutters can be especially effective on windows that face west. Retractable window awnings allow you to adjust them seasonally. Window hoods can also be fitted over windows and doors to help shield them from the sun.
For example, strategic planting of trees and shrubs could reduce heat gain in and around your home.
Important bushfire safety note
Make sure you consider potential bushfire risk, especially if you are in a bushfire-prone area. For example, plant trees a significant distance from your house, allowing clear access, and follow any guidelines from local fire authorities.
For support with external window coverings, whether it’s installation or advice, consider speaking with a professional.
Consider the following professionals for advice on shade solutions for your home:
It helps to have a few details ready
The risk ratings displayed by this tool are based on postcode-level data only and are not based on your own home’s characteristics. They reflect an average across all properties within a postcode and are provided as general information. They are not a substitute for a property-specific risk assessment.
Risk is distributed unevenly across properties within any postcode, which means most individual properties will not have the postcode-average risk rating, but will have a risk rating that is either higher or lower than the postcode average shown. This tool should not be used to calculate, predict or estimate the sum insured applicable to any individual property nor is this tool used by NRMA Insurance to calculate your premium. NRMA Insurance accepts no liability for any loss or damage arising from reliance on the information provided by this tool.
The information provided by this tool is general information only and does not constitute financial or professional advice. It does not take into account your individual objectives, financial situation, or needs (“your personal circumstances”). Before making any insurance decision, you should consider your personal circumstances and the relevant Product Disclosure Statement. The Product Disclosure Statement and Target Market Determinations are available at nrma.com.au. Insurance is issued by Insurance Australia Limited ABN 11 000 016 722 AFSL 227681 trading as NRMA Insurance.