More about Valances and Pelmets

More about Valances and Pelmets
 
 
In a previous post I introduced some very beautiful valances. Now the reason for doing so with regard to energy savings.
 
 
 
 
 
According to some reliable sources a valance or pelmet can help to reduce your energy losses at the window by as much as 15%. That is no small change, especially over the life of a window.
 
It is an old idea but it works. Cornices, pelmets, or valances all save you money.
 
 
 
So here is one of the many how to do build your own valance,cornice or pelmet sites.
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Before central heating many low tech ideas were implemented at the window to keep rooms warmer. Valances and Pelmets, also known as Cornices were one of those low tech ideas that were useful both summer and winter.
 
In the wintertime heat rises and without a cornice or pelmet it begins a process of convection that increases heat loss at the window. A pelmet or valance/cornice will help to stop the flow of hot air stabilizing the temperature at the window and controlling the convection process. Controlling the convection process at the window makes for fewer drafts and lessens the heat to cold exchange, making the room warmer.
 
 
 
 
 
 
Here is an excellent short article about how this process works.
 
 
So here is my question are there manufacturers out there making heated pelmets? How would that change energy loss at the window from convection?
 
Here are two short videos  from youtube that outline how to build a cornice.
 
 
 
 
 
 

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=n7iGHuRaeUw
 
 
 
Although this is fairly easy to do, it does take some skill you might want to engage the services of a local woodworker. Pelmets and cornices can be as simple or as elaborate as you want. 


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