Natural Light
Natural lighting in the home and workplace benefits people mentally and physically. An abundance of natural light is one of the top features that potential home-buyers in Portland look for in their new home. The amount of sunlight in the home can significantly affect mood, not to mention that using less electricity saves money and the environment. Natural lighting is a crucial aspect of an energy-efficient home, which is beneficial to both individuals and society as a whole.
Health Benefits of Natural Lighting
Mental Health
Nearly six percent of the American population suffers from Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), a type of depression that correlates with shorter days, and the changing of the seasons. Many more Americans (14%) suffer from a less severe version of SAD colloquially referred to as the “winter blues.” Natural lighting in the home can help ward off seasonal depression. Many sufferers note that sunlight and brightness in the home can help alleviate their symptoms.
Sleep
A small 2014 study conducted by architecture and neurology scholars concludes that office workers exposed to natural light throughout the day get significantly better sleep than those who don’t. Additionally, the study found that workers with more windows at the workplace tend to be more physically active than their windowless counterparts.
Vitamin D
For the skin to absorb vitamin D, it needs to be exposed to sunlight. Vitamin D is known as the “sunshine vitamin.” Vitamin D aids in absorbing calcium, lowering the risk of heart disease and cancer, and preventing bone density loss. The more sunlight someone is exposed to, the more vitamin D their body can absorb. Nearly ten percent of Americans suffer from a vitamin D deficiency, which can lead to brittle bones if left unaddressed.
How to Increase Natural Light in the Home
While many people don’t have control over the amount of natural light in their workplace, there are plenty of easy ways to increase the amount of sunlight in the home.
Mirrors
Mirrors are the easiest way to increase the amount of sunlight in the home. Placing a mirror opposite a window can help bounce more light around the room. Other shiny objects also achieve this effect. Decorative chandeliers, metallic fixtures, glass furniture, and a polished finish on the ceiling can all increase the amount of light in any space.
Color
Choosing the right color palette can have a drastic effect on the brightness in any room. Lighter colors reflect light, while darker colors absorb light. The same amount of sunlight in a dark blue room will seem much more somber than if the room is a lighter color such as white, gray, or tan.
Flooring
Similar to the mirror effect, cement with a polished finish can increase the amount of light in the room due to reflection. The lighter the color of the tile or wood, the brighter the room will seem. If carpeting is a must, pick lighter, neutral colors. Beige or tan carpet can make a place look warm and inviting without sacrificing any light.
Yard Work
Even if it seems counterintuitive, yard work and maintenance outside of the home can increase the amount of natural light inside the house. Keeping trees and greenery trimmed, especially around windows, can increase the amount of light that can enter the home. If overgrown plants or vines are blocking windows or doors, consider planting flowers or other low-growing flora to let in the sun.
Skylights
On the more financially- and labor-intensive side, putting skylights in the ceiling can significantly affect the amount of sunlight in a living space. Skylights come in a variety of shapes, sizes, and functionalities. A trained professional will have no problem installing a skylight and ensuring that it has a perfect seal so that no rain, only shine, comes into the home. If a skylight is not feasible, t benefit from a solar tube. Solar tubes are reflective pipes that can twist and extend up to thirty feet from the roof to the ceiling. They’re an ingenious way to provide more natural light in dark spaces, such as a basement.
New Window Treatments
One of the easiest ways to increase the amount of sun in a room is to change the draperies. Light sheer fabric can brighten a room immediately. Blinds are also a popular option, as they can be adjusted in multiple ways until the perfect amount of light shines through.
Wash the Windows
Dirty windows can affect the amount and quality of light inside. Simply washing the windows can make a noticeable difference. Make sure to clean both inside and outside for the most significant effect.
New Doors
Solid doors obviously block light from entering the home. Glass doors, or doors with glass insets, keep the light flowing from room to room. Consider replacing hallway, entry, or stairwell doors with glass, and watch the light flood the space.
New Windows
Without many windows in a room, it is next to impossible to increase the amount of natural light. Professional contractors and building professionals can determine where more windows can be installed. Another option is to replace existing windows with ones that have an increased surface area to let in more light.
How EvoSiding Window Installation Can Help
EvoSiding proudly serves the greater Portland metropolitan area. With decades of combined contracting and building experience, the hard workers at EvoSiding can replace existing home windows with a new style and a professional seal. Not only can they replace windows, but EvoSiding can replace doors, too. That way, the maximum amount of light can enter the home. Ward off those winter blues and call for an estimate today.