Effective window coverings are one way to reduce the heat that enters your home, and during the hottest months, they can make a difference.

But with so many options, it is tough to decide the right covering for your home.

Kenny Hoagland, a home décor customer service representative at Lowe’s on North Main Street, said having something covering your windows is essential if a homeowner is trying to keep his or her home cool.

“It’s always good to have something on your window,” he said.

The three main window coverings are blinds, shades and film, all of which come in a variety of materials and colors.

Hoagland said he recommends shades to homeowners who are looking to keep the light and heat out of their home altogether.

Shades allow for very little light to enter when they are drawn because they cover the window entirely.

He also said shades are quite cost effective, usually costing homeowners anywhere from $40 to $60 to adorn several windows.

“If you want to save (money) now, you probably want to go with shades,” he said.

However, Hoagland said faux wood blinds are a popular choice to allow for more light and add more beauty to a home.

He said although these blinds are a little pricier, they are durable and do not have to be replaced as often as vinyl blinds.

In reference to vinyl blinds, which many new homes are stocked with, Hoagland said they are ineffective at keeping both light and heat out, and homeowners should invest in a different covering if they want to save energy.

In addition to choosing the material, homeowners can choose the color of the covering.

Most blinds and shades come in neutral colors, ranging from white to dark brown or black.

Hoagland said using darker coverings be an effective way of keeping out more light and heat.

A third option is to use window film, which is placed directly on the glass and comes in a variety of shades.

There is even a privacy window film, which blacks out windows much like tinting on a car.

Window film is a more expensive option, but Hoagland said it is a good option for people who don’t want anything on the windows at all.