Winter in the GTA isn’t just “a bit chilly.”
Between icy winds, early sunsets and rising heating bills, this season really tests how comfortable (and efficient) your home is.
What many homeowners don’t realize is that windows are one of the biggest sources of heat loss in a house. The good news? The right custom window coverings can make a huge difference in how warm, cozy and private your home feels this winter.
At Sunny Shutter Inc., our local factory in Scarborough designs and builds made-to-measure blinds, shutters and drapery that are tailored for Canadian winters – not just for looks, but for comfort and performance.
Why Winter Is the Best Time to Upgrade Your Window Coverings
When the temperature drops, you’ll notice the weak spots in your home right away:
- Cold drafts near large windows
- Condensation on glass
- Rooms that are always cooler than the rest of the house
- The feeling of “sitting beside a fridge” when you’re near patio doors
Upgrading your window treatments in winter helps you:
- Reduce heat loss
A proper fit plus thicker or layered fabrics create an insulating barrier between your warm indoor air and the cold glass. - Improve comfort without cranking the thermostat
Well-designed blinds or shutters can help stabilize room temperature, so you don’t have to keep adjusting the heat. - Add privacy during long, dark evenings
With the sun setting early, you’re more visible from outside. Good window coverings protect your privacy and still let you control light.
If you’re not sure how to measure your existing windows, you can check out our step-by-step guide:
👉 How to Measure for Custom Blinds and Shades
Best Window Covering Options for Winter Comfort
Different rooms have different needs. Here’s how our popular products work in a winter setting.
1. Zebra Blinds: Style + Flexible Light Control
Zebra blinds (also called dual or layered shades) are one of our best-sellers in Toronto for a reason. In winter, they offer:
- Soft filtered light during the day to keep your space bright without the harsh glare on snow.
- Better privacy at night when you switch to full fabric overlap.
- Extra insulation compared to bare glass, especially with thicker fabrics.
For many homeowners, zebra blinds are a perfect balance between a clean, modern look and practical comfort. They work beautifully in living rooms, dining rooms and home offices.
Want to explore more about our custom zebra blinds?
Visit our main site: Sunny Shutter – Custom Blinds & Shades in Toronto
2. Roller Shades: Minimal Look, Maximum Function
Roller shades are ideal if you prefer a simple, streamlined style. For winter use, we often recommend:
- Light-filtering fabrics for rooms where you still want natural light, but less glare off snow.
- Blackout fabrics for bedrooms and media rooms to block outdoor lights and drafts more effectively.
Paired with a proper cassette and side channels (where suitable), winter roller shades can significantly reduce light leakage and help keep warmth in.
3. Interior Shutters: A Classic Barrier Against the Cold
Interior shutters aren’t just beautiful; they’re practical in winter:
- The solid structure creates a sturdy barrier in front of the glass.
- Adjustable louvers let you fine-tune privacy and light, even on short winter days.
- They pair well with drapery if you want an extra layer of softness and insulation.
Shutters are especially effective on street-facing windows, where privacy and curb appeal both matter.
4. Layered Drapery: The ‘Winter Coat’ for Your Windows
Think of drapes as a warm coat for your windows.
Layering drapery over blinds or shades is one of the most effective ways to:
- Cut down on cold drafts
- Make large windows or patio doors feel much cozier
- Visually “warm up” a room, especially in neutral or minimalist interiors
Common winter combinations we install:
- Zebra blinds + side panels (decorative drapes that also help block drafts)
- Roller shades + full-height blackout curtains for bedrooms
- Shutters + sheer curtains for privacy during the day and warmth at night
How Much Do Custom Winter Window Coverings Help?
Every home is different, but our clients typically notice:
- Fewer cold spots near windows
- Less “chill” radiating from large glass areas
- More consistent temperature from room to room
- A noticeable improvement in comfort during windy days
Because we build everything locally in our Scarborough factory, we can adjust:
- Fabric thickness
- Liner options
- Fit and installation method
…to match both your aesthetic taste and your winter performance goals.
DIY Measurement vs. Free In-Home Consultation
You have two main options with Sunny Shutter:
1. Measure It Yourself (and Save More)
If your windows are straightforward (for example, standard rectangular windows), you can:
- Use a steel tape measure
- Follow our online instructions
- Send us your measurements for a quick quote
Start here:
👉 How to Measure for Custom Blinds and Shades
This is a great option if you’re comfortable with basic DIY tasks and want maximum savings.
2. Book a Free In-Home Consultation
Some windows are more complex — bay windows, bow windows, large patio doors, angled or unusually deep frames. For these, it’s often better to let us handle the tricky details.
Our consultant can:
- Check for drafts and mounting challenges
- Recommend the best product for winter comfort (zebra, roller, shutters, or layered drapery)
- Bring fabric samples so you can see colours in your actual lighting
- Take precise measurements for a perfect fit
You can easily book a time online:
👉 Book a Free In-Home Consultation
Winter Care Tips for Your Blinds and Curtains
Once your new window coverings are installed, a few simple habits help them last longer and perform better:
- Open them on sunny winter days
Let in natural light and warmth during the day, especially on south-facing windows. - Close them fully at night
This helps trap warm air inside and reduces drafts. - Dust regularly
Use a soft cloth or vacuum brush attachment. Clean fabrics insulate more consistently and look better. - Watch for condensation
If you see moisture on the glass, ventilate the room when possible. This protects both your windows and your coverings.
Final Thoughts: Make This Winter Feel Different
You can’t control Toronto’s winter weather, but you can control how your home responds to it.
With custom-fit blinds, shutters and drapery from Sunny Shutter Inc., you’ll get:
- A warmer, more comfortable home
- Better privacy during long winter nights
- A clean, modern look that still feels cozy
Whether you prefer to measure your windows yourself or book a free in-home consultation, our team is here to help you design window coverings that work beautifully in all four seasons—especially the coldest one.
