If you own a home in Sussex County, Delaware, you’re no stranger to intense summer sunshine. While natural light can brighten up your home and elevate your mood, the sun’s UV rays can quietly wreak havoc on your furniture, flooring, and artwork. The good news? UV-blocking window treatments offer a stylish and practical solution.

This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about protecting your coastal home using shades and blinds—especially those available through Better Blinds, the local leader in window treatments in Sussex County.

2. Understanding the Power of UV Rays

Ultraviolet (UV) radiation is a part of sunlight that is invisible to the naked eye but very damaging over time. UV-A and UV-B rays penetrate your windows, fading your hardwood floors, bleaching fabrics, and breaking down chemical bonds in furniture materials. The longer your interior is exposed to direct sunlight, the faster the damage occurs.

3. Coastal Living and UV Exposure in Sussex County

Sussex County’s scenic beauty and coastal charm come with a price—amplified sun exposure. With reflective surfaces like sand and water, UV intensity can be up to 25% greater in coastal homes compared to inland properties. Cities like Selbyville and Ocean View are especially vulnerable due to proximity to the shoreline.

4. How UV Rays Damage Your Home Interior

Fading: UV light fades the pigments in hardwood, carpets, wall art, and upholstery.

Cracking and Warping: Prolonged sun exposure dries out wood and leather, causing cracks.

Discoloration: Painted surfaces and fabrics discolor unevenly when exposed to sunlight.

Temperature Gain: Rooms with direct sunlight can become significantly warmer, leading to higher energy costs.

Protecting your interiors with quality UV-blocking window treatments is not just about aesthetics; it’s an investment in the longevity and comfort of your home.

5. UV-Blocking Window Treatments: A Smart Solution

Image of home sunroom-shielded-by-cellular-shades-sussex-county

Blinds and shades designed to block UV rays can reduce interior fading by up to 99%, depending on material and weave. UV-protective window treatments also reduce glare, maintain privacy, and contribute to energy efficiency by limiting heat gain.

Better Blinds offers an extensive selection of window treatments crafted specifically to handle the intense sun of Sussex County summers. Their team is experienced in matching the right treatment with the room’s purpose, orientation, and design style.

6. Types of UV-Blocking Shades

Solar Shades

Solar shades are engineered with tightly woven fabric that blocks up to 99% of UV rays while preserving your view. Ideal for living rooms and ocean-facing windows.

Roller Shades

Roller shades combine functionality with style and are available in various opacities. They offer a sleek look while delivering powerful UV protection.

Dual Shades

These offer a light-filtering option by day and blackout protection by night. The dual function makes them perfect for bedrooms and media rooms.

Cellular Shades

These honeycomb-shaped shades are great for insulation and UV protection, making them energy-efficient and perfect for all seasons.

Explore more about Better Blinds’ services to discover how these shades can be customized to your space.

7. Why Sussex County Residents Choose Better Blinds

Better Blinds has become a trusted name in Sussex County by offering tailored solutions, professional installation, and premium-quality materials. Here’s why they stand out:

Locally Owned & Operated

In-home Consultations for Custom Fit

Expert Installation

Warrantied Products

Whether you’re protecting your beach house in Ocean View or your year-round residence in Selbyville, Better Blinds provides top-tier solutions backed by local knowledge.

8. Real Customer Reviews

“We had our entire home fitted with solar shades by Better Blinds, and the difference is amazing. No more fading on our couch, and the room feels cooler too!” – Jane R., Ocean View, DE (Read more reviews)

“Better Blinds was professional from consultation to install. Our roller shades look modern and are incredibly effective against the summer sun.” – Thomas M., Selbyville, DE

“We were surprised how much cooler our sunroom felt after installing the dual shades. Worth every penny!” – Michelle K., Rehoboth Beach, DE

“Excellent service and great selection. The custom blinds we got from Better Blinds match our decor perfectly while giving us the UV protection we needed.” – Brian S., Bethany Beach, DE (View more testimonials)

9. Installation Tips and Best Practices

Installing UV-blocking window treatments is most effective when the shades cover the window fully and are tightly sealed at the edges. For best results:

Measure your windows precisely or request a professional measurement.

Consider motorized options for hard-to-reach windows.

Use light-colored backings to reflect more sunlight.

Coordinate your window treatments with your room’s decor for a seamless look.

The experts at Better Blinds provide free in-home consultations to make sure everything fits and functions perfectly. See examples of their work on the Our Work page.

10. Maintenance and Longevity of UV-Blocking Window Treatments

Dust regularly with a microfiber cloth or vacuum using the brush attachment.

Spot clean stains with mild detergent.

Inspect mechanisms yearly to ensure smooth operation.

Replace cords or motors as needed to extend the life of the treatment.

Better Blinds uses durable, high-quality materials that are built to last even in high-humidity, sun-intense areas like Sussex County. Visit their Resource Page for care guides and product details.

11. Cost vs. Long-Term Benefits

While UV-blocking window treatments might seem like a luxury, they offer substantial return on investment:

Lower cooling bills in the summer

Protection of expensive furniture and flooring

Reduced need for interior renovations or replacements

Increased property value and comfort

Better Blinds offers competitive pricing, free consultations, and seasonal promotions, making premium sun protection accessible to Sussex County homeowners.

12. 5 FAQs About UV-Blocking Shades

Q1: Do UV-blocking shades make my room too dark?
A: Not necessarily. Solar and light-filtering shades block harmful rays while still letting natural light through. You can choose from various opacities to suit your preferences.

Q2: Can I still see outside with UV-blocking shades?
A: Yes, solar shades allow you to maintain your view while blocking UV rays, depending on the openness factor of the fabric.

Q3: How do I know which type of shade is best for my home?
A: Schedule a consultation with Better Blinds. Their experts will recommend the best option based on window direction, room use, and personal style.

Q4: Are these shades difficult to maintain in a beachside home?
A: No. The materials used by Better Blinds are specifically designed to withstand coastal humidity and sunlight. Regular dusting and occasional cleaning will keep them looking great.

Q5: What if I want to automate my shades?
A: Better Blinds offers motorized and smart-home compatible options, making it easy to adjust your shades with the touch of a button or voice command.

13. Conclusion

UV rays are an invisible yet powerful force that can quietly erode the beauty and value of your home. For Sussex County residents—especially those in sunny beach towns—protecting your interiors should be a priority.

With advanced solutions like solar and roller shades, you can shield your home from harmful rays while enhancing its aesthetic and energy efficiency.

Better Blinds has built a reputation across Selbyville, Ocean View, and other coastal communities by providing premium, custom-fit UV-blocking window treatments. Their full-service offerings include consultation, selection, and installation—all tailored to your home’s unique needs.

Don’t let another summer go by without protecting what matters most. Visit Better Blinds Blog for more tips and inspiration or schedule your consultation today.

RESOURCES:

🌐 3 Government Links

Official Site of Delaware

Ocean View Town Government

Sussex County, DE Government

📚 3 Wikipedia Links

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ultraviolet

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Window_blind

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Coastal_management

FREE IN-HOME DESIGN CONSULTATION

Schedule your free in-home design consultation today!

ABOUT US:

Better Blinds in Ocean View & Millsboro DE:

Better Blinds has locations in Ocean View & Millsboro and is a proud neighbor of all the communities in Sussex County, DE

We have been serving Sussex County residents for years and looking forward to providing their window treatment, blinds, shades and shutters needs for many years to come.

Why Choose “Better Blinds” of Ocean View & Millsboro, DE to ensure a Better Experience for Homeowners?

Offering the highest quality window coverings at an affordable price, along with Free installation and a 100% guarantee, has made us one of the best window treatment installers in Sussex County with many satisfied clients.

Available to you is a complete line of high-quality blinds, roller shades, sheer shades, layered shades, romans, sliding panels, and interior shutters, all installed by certified professionals that will arrive on time and complete the job as promised.

“We sell and install high quality Blinds, Shades, and Plantation Shutters for your residential home. We have been selling and installing custom window treatments for over 10 years. We are locally owned and operated and serve the Ocean view, DE and surrounding areas.”

“We carry world leading brands and offer free in-home consultations. We pride ourselves on being punctual and dependable. Most products are installed within 4 weeks. Give us the opportunity to earn your business. Call or text us to arrange a free in-home consultation!”

Window Treatment Products Include:

Roller Shades | Soluna Cordless Precision Lift
Solar Shades | Soluna Cordless Precision Lift
Perfect Drape
Plantation Shutters | Invisible Tilt
Sliding Panels
Natural Shades
Honeycomb Shades | Cordless TDBU
Cordless Faux Wood Blinds

Locations served:

Frankford
Selbyville
Dagsboro
Fenwick Island
Ocean View
Bethany Beach
South Bethany
Millville
Millsboro
Lewes
Rehoboth Beach
Long Neck
Harbeson
Milton
Georgetown

Better Blinds & Shades offers world leading brands and free in-home consultations. We pride ourselves on being punctual and dependable. Most products are installed within 2 weeks.

Give us the opportunity to earn your business. Call or text us to arrange a free in-home consultation!

Or visit our website for more information & great window treatment ideas

Better Blinds & Shades
Ocean View, DE 19970
(302) 402-6180

Better Blinds & Shades
Millsboro, DE 19966
240-440-1220
https://betterblindsshades.com

Resources:

YT Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCjbx4kVQWyLFngmoOFKk9JA
Reviews: https://g.page/better-blinds-de/review?rc
Ocean View Location Map: https://www.google.com/maps?cid=3543074099480450270
Millsboro Location Map: https://www.google.com/maps/d/u/3/edit?mid=1SarbbV8qDMa_YsyHnJJdMwpfzt-Z7Zbz&usp=sharing
G Site: https://sites.google.com/view/betterblindsshades
GBP: https://better-blinds-shades.business.site

Ocean View Location

Selbyville Location

Plantation shutters in Sussex County DE coastal home by Better Blinds

Coastal Living Redefined: Best Blinds, Shades & Shutters for Your Sussex County Beach Homes

Posted by admin on June 11, 2025

Sponsored by Better Blinds in Selbyville, DE

Table of Contents

Introduction: The Allure of Coastal Living

The Coastal Aesthetic in Delaware Beach Homes

Why Window Treatments Matter in Coastal Climates

Plantation Shutters: Timeless & Functional

Light-Filtering Shades: Let the Sunshine In—Gently

Breezy Drapes: Airy Elegance for Beach Vibes

Customization

UV Protection & Energy Efficiency by the Shore

Better Blinds: Local Experts for Coastal Style

Real Client Reviews: Why Homeowners Trust Better Blinds

Conclusion

1. Introduction: The Allure of Coastal Living

Whether your home is nestled in Lewes, steps from the sand in Rehoboth Beach, or tucked into the serene community of Ocean View, coastal living in Sussex County, Delaware offers a tranquil lifestyle. To fully embrace that breezy, relaxed environment, every design choice should reflect the beauty and practicality of beachside living—starting with your window treatments.

2. The Coastal Aesthetic in Delaware Beach Homes

The “coastal chic” design aesthetic blends soft, natural textures with an airy color palette—think sea-glass greens, driftwood grays, sand-beige, and crisp white. The goal is to let light and ocean breezes in while maintaining privacy and UV protection.

Sussex County beach homes often feature wide windows or panoramic sliders that showcase the ocean or bay. Selecting window treatments that complement these architectural highlights is key to achieving both function and style.

3. Why Window Treatments Matter in Coastal Climates

Coastal homes face intense sunlight, salt air, and variable weather conditions. The right window treatments:

Reduce glare and harsh UV rays

Help maintain indoor temperatures

Preserve the integrity of flooring, furniture, and artwork

Enhance the overall beach aesthetic

Better Blinds specializes in custom window solutions that stand up to the unique conditions of coastal Delaware while elevating your home’s charm.

4. Plantation Shutters: Timeless & Functional

Why They’re Perfect for Beach Homes:
Plantation shutters offer a clean, structured look with slats that allow for adjustable light and airflow. They are ideal for high-humidity environments and can be customized in various finishes to match any beach-inspired color palette.

Benefits:

Superior light control

Durable materials that resist warping

Increased home value

Explore our Selbyville designs to see how Better Blinds integrates plantation shutters into coastal homes.

5. Light-Filtering Shades: Let the Sunshine In—Gently

Shades are the go-to for softening harsh daylight while keeping interiors bright and breezy. Light-filtering roller or cellular shades diffuse light beautifully, enhancing your interior glow without overheating the space.

Style Tip: Choose woven textures or linen-like fabrics in neutral tones for a breezy, sun-bleached look.

Better Blinds Offers:

Motorized options for hard-to-reach windows

Eco-friendly fabric selections

Expert consultations in Ocean View and beyond: Visit our Ocean View location

Review: “Better Blinds was amazing from start to finish. They helped us choose beautiful light-filtering shades that kept our beach house cool and stylish!” – Rehoboth homeowner
(Read more reviews)

6. Breezy Drapes: Airy Elegance for Beach Vibes

No material captures the seaside essence better than flowing curtains that catch the ocean breeze. Light, breathable fabrics like cotton, linen, and voile bring effortless sophistication.

Design Tips:

Floor-to-ceiling panels elongate your space

White or cream drapes enhance natural lighting

Pair with bamboo or wood blinds for layered texture

Better Blinds offers full customization: View our work for inspiration.

Review: “The linen drapes from Better Blinds completely transformed our sunroom. It feels like a beachside resort now.” – Lewes homeowner
(Read more reviews)

7. Customization: Matching Your Window Treatments to Coastal Decor

Light-filtering roller shades, blinds and shutters installed in coastal beach house

Every beach home has its own character. Custom window treatments allow you to tailor colors, materials, and finishes to perfectly suit your space. Whether you’re looking to match driftwood flooring, seafoam tiles, or nautical décor, Better Blinds offers bespoke solutions.

Visit our Resource Page for design tools and style inspiration.

8. UV Protection & Energy Efficiency by the Shore

Living by the water means extended sun exposure. Over time, UV rays can damage floors, rugs, and furniture. Smart window treatments help mitigate this and also reduce your cooling costs.

Top Coastal Options:

Solar shades with UV-blocking fabrics

Insulating cellular shades

Durable faux-wood plantation shutters

With Better Blinds services, you can install functional, elegant solutions that preserve your interiors.

Review: “We didn’t realize how much sun damage we were getting until Better Blinds installed UV-protective shades. What a difference!” – Dewey Beach homeowner
(See more reviews)

9. Better Blinds: Local Experts for Coastal Style

Proudly serving Sussex County, Better Blinds understands the rhythm of beach life. With decades of experience, a deep understanding of climate challenges, and a stunning portfolio, the team is known for:

Personalized design consultations

High-quality installations

Ongoing support

Learn more about Better Blinds and why homeowners across Lewes, Rehoboth Beach, Selbyville, and Ocean View trust them with their windows.

Review: “We used Better Blinds for both our vacation home and our permanent residence. Their team made the process stress-free and fun.” – Ocean View client
(Browse more feedback)

10. Real Client Reviews: Why Homeowners Trust Better Blinds

“Exceptional service and coastal expertise.”
“We had no idea what would work in our Lewes cottage. Better Blinds took the time to walk us through everything—and our new shutters look incredible.”

“Better Blinds really knows beach homes.”
“Our bayfront windows were tricky to cover, but the team delivered a perfect custom solution. Highly recommended.”

“Design help was a game changer.”
“We had vision, but no idea how to bring it to life. Better Blinds brought samples, style boards, and incredible insight.”

“They brought luxury to our beach house.”
“From motorized shades to delicate drapes, our Rehoboth escape now feels polished and serene.”

See why so many are choosing Better Blinds for their window treatment needs.

11. FAQ

Q1: What window treatments work best for beach homes?
A: Plantation shutters, light-filtering shades, and sheer drapes are excellent choices for a coastal home. They offer style, privacy, and protection against sunlight.

Q2: Do Better Blinds products protect against UV damage?
A: Yes. Many of our products—including solar and cellular shades—offer strong UV-blocking properties that help preserve your interiors.

Q3: Can I get custom window treatments for oddly-shaped windows?
A: Absolutely. Better Blinds specializes in custom solutions for all window shapes and sizes common in beach homes.

Q4: What areas in Sussex County does Better Blinds serve?
A: We proudly serve communities including Lewes, Rehoboth Beach, Ocean View, and Selbyville, among others.

Q5: Can I see previous projects?
A: Yes! Visit our gallery of completed work and browse the Better Blinds blog for real client projects and design inspiration.

12. Conclusion

Creating the perfect coastal chic home starts with thoughtful details—and window treatments are among the most impactful. With the right shades, shutters, or breezy drapes, you can elevate your Sussex County beach home into a haven of light, elegance, and protection.

Let Better Blinds bring your coastal vision to life. From Rehoboth Beach to Selbyville, their team has the local expertise, product selection, and design flair to transform any room into a beachfront retreat.

Ready to begin? Contact Better Blinds today and turn your windows into works of art that reflect the serenity and style of the sea.

✅ Government Hyperlinks

NOAA: Coastal Climate Data for Delaware

Delaware Coastal Management Program

U.S. Department of Energy – Energy Efficient Window Coverings

✅ Wikipedia Categories URLs

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Window_blind

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Interior_design