One of the most common requests we hear from Phoenix homeowners who are shopping for replacement windows is: “How can I get more natural light in my home…without turning it into a sauna?”
It’s a great question because natural light has countless benefits. It can make your home feel brighter, bigger, and more inviting. It boosts mood, supports better sleep, and even increases your home’s value. But in Arizona, letting in more sunlight can also mean letting in more heat, and when summer hits, that’s the last thing you want.
The good news? You can fill your home with beautiful natural light without driving up your APS bill or sacrificing comfort. At Greco Roman Windows and Doors, we specialize in helping homeowners get the best of both worlds: bright, airy spaces that stay cool even in the heart of summer.
Here’s how to do it.
Choose Energy-Efficient Windows Designed for the Desert
Not all windows are created equally, especially in a climate as intense as Phoenix. If your home still has older single-pane windows or basic builder-grade glass, chances are they’re letting in far more heat than light.
Modern energy-efficient windows use low-E coatings, double- or triple-pane glass, heat-resistant frame materials, and argon or krypton gas fills. These materials and features work together to reflect heat, reduce temperature transfer, and add insulation. The end result is a window that looks like clear glass but acts like a protective shield, letting in sunlight while blocking the harsh desert heat.
Upgrading your windows is the single most powerful step toward creating a bright, cool home.
Use Sliding or Multi-Panel Glass Doors Strategically
Large glass doors—such as Milgard’s stacking glass doors—add incredible natural light, especially in main living areas, dining rooms, and kitchens. But many homeowners worry that adding huge door systems will make their home too hot.
That’s only true if the glass isn’t engineered for heat protection.
Today’s premium sliding, bi-fold, and multi-slide glass doors are built with the same energy-efficient features as high-performance windows. You can enjoy full-wall sunlight and still keep the temperature comfortable.
Consider placing these doors:
- On north-facing walls for soft, indirect light
- On east-facing walls to enjoy bright mornings without afternoon heat
- With proper overhangs or patio covers to reduce solar exposure
With the right placement and the right glass package, you can enjoy stunning views and bright interiors without overheating.
Use Clerestory or High Windows to Capture Cool Light
Clerestory windows (the kind that sit high on the wall, near the roofline) are incredibly effective for bringing in natural light without glare or heat. Because heat rises and sunlight angles downward, placing windows up high allows you to illuminate a room evenly while minimizing direct sun penetration.
Milgard’s radius windows are available in circular shapes, arched tops, and half circles, and they can be effectively installed higher on the wall. If you’re looking for more light in bathrooms, entryways, stairways, or closets, these windows will brighten your interior without sacrificing privacy, comfort, or indoor comfort.
Use Exterior Shading to Control Heat, Not Light
One of the smartest ways to enjoy natural light without overheating your home is to block heat before it reaches your windows. Exterior shading solutions can dramatically reduce heat gain without making your rooms feel dark.
Popular options to manage shade in Phoenix include pergolas and patio covers, exterior sun screens, awnings or shade sails, and strategically placed landscaping. For example, a pergola outside a south- or west-facing sliding door can filter harsh afternoon sun while allowing the interior to stay bright and open.
Consider Transom Windows for Soft, Ambient Light
Transom windows (the small windows placed above doors or larger windows) allow sunlight to travel deeper into your space while avoiding harsh direct rays. They’re excellent for adding natural brightness to entryways, hallways, or living rooms.
Because transom windows are positioned higher on the wall, they let in indirect light, which is much cooler and more pleasant during Phoenix summers.
Pick the Right Window Orientation for Maximum Comfort
Not all sunlight is equal. The orientation of your windows has a major impact on how much heat they let into your home:
- North-facing windows get consistent, cool, indirect light
- East-facing windows bring bright morning light with minimal heat
- South-facing windows get stronger light but can be controlled with overhangs
- West-facing windows receive harsh afternoon sun—the hottest of the day
If you’re doing a remodel, addition, or replacing windows, orientation is key. Greco Roman Windows and Doors can help you design layouts that maximize natural light while minimizing heat exposure.
Enjoy Brighter Spaces Without the Extra Heat
Living in Phoenix doesn’t mean you have to choose between natural light and a comfortable home. With the right window technologies, thoughtful placement, and smart shading solutions, you can enjoy bright, sun-filled rooms without pushing your APS bill through the roof.
At Greco Roman Windows and Doors, we help homeowners create spaces that feel open, airy, and cool, even in the height of summer. Whether you’re replacing old windows, redesigning your interior, or exploring new door systems, our team can guide you through every step.
Ready to brighten your home without overheating it? Contact Greco Roman Windows and Doors today at 480-504-5400 to schedule a consultation.