Can you give us your advice on whether it's a good idea to leave a window uncovered in our Leander Solar Window Screen project?
- Josh Hobbs
- Sep 7
- 3 min read
I would be happy to provide my thoughts on whether leaving a window uncovered is a wise choice for your Leander Solar Window Screen project.
Example of a 2021 Leander solar window screen project
In 2021, I completed the following installation for a Leander residence where the homeowners were initially inclined to keep the transom windows surrounding their front door uncovered. After discussing their options, I encouraged them to consider applying solar screens to those transom windows as well.
I explained that leaving the windows uncovered would create an incomplete or disjointed appearance, detracting from the overall aesthetic of the entrance.
By covering all the windows uniformly, we achieved a cohesive and polished look that enhanced the home's curb appeal. Do you agree?

This is the right side of the same residence.

Notice how the glass block window has been left exposed, lacking any covering?
Additionally, the first-floor opening window remains uncovered as well.
From my perspective, this gives the overall appearance an unfinished look, suggesting that the installation may have been incomplete.
Ideally, I would have preferred to see all the windows on this side shaded with solar screens, which would not only enhance the aesthetics but also provide better energy efficiency and privacy.
Here is a 2023 Leander solar shade project where the homeowner left off two windows on the front side of their home.

I advised the homeowners to cover the two front windows, but they ignored my suggestion. They mentioned there was no need to shade the dormer window and claimed the half-circle window above the front door was already shaded. I emphasized that for resale value, the front of the home should look appealing, and leaving these windows uncovered doesn't achieve that. They believed they could hire me later to cover those two windows if necessary. I explained that they would need to meet my minimum solar screen order and that it would be much more cost-effective to do it now.
This homeowner left three tree-shaded front windows uncovered but covered three.

This homeowner in Leander, TX, chose not to shade these three windows since the front yard tree already provided shade.
While I understand the reasoning, enhancing the front curb appeal and adding privacy to the front room would have been advantageous. Those in the room could have opened their blinds during the day to enjoy the view while solar screens maintained privacy.
Showing the back side of a home with missing solar screens.
I understand why this Leander, Texas, homeowner chose not to install solar screens under the patio, but the back door could have been shaded. As shown in this picture, the door is exposed to the sun and could have used the shade.
The homeowner kept the original bug screens for windows installed under the wooden patio structure in the three shaded windows.

This wooden patio design, with its exquisite craftsmanship and inviting ambiance, would greatly enhance the outdoor experience by adding one of my elegant outdoor pull-down shades. Imagine the soft sunlight filtering through the fabric, creating a comfortable sitting area from the harsh midday sun while maintaining the allure of the natural surroundings. This shade would not only offer comfort on hot days but also create a cozy setting for gatherings, increasing the pleasure of the area.