An open concept living area with white window shades on windows looking out on a blue pool

Take Advantage Of Longer Days With These Summer Renovations In Minneapolis

June 08, 2026

If you appreciate the outdoor fun and long days of summer, why not take full advantage of it? The best summer renovations to your Minneapolis home can take your summer to the next level. Check out the ideas below and start projects suited for summertime fun, like keeping your home more comfortable in hot weather or creating a better space for entertaining.

Ease The Load On Your AC With Heat-Blocking Window Treatments

White Polywood shutters on doors and windows in a kitchen eating nook

As much as you enjoy the summer heat in Minneapolis, you don’t want your interior to get too steamy. That heat can put extra strain on your HVAC system. Give your air conditioner a respite this summer by adding energy-efficient window treatments. Window treatments that minimize harsh UV rays and exterior heat help keep your home cool without running your AC constantly.

Your leading choices for this kind of summer renovation in Minneapolis are:

Polywood® plantation shutters with their unrivaled insulating features

Structured “honeycomb” cellular shades that trap heat against the window

Motorized shades that close by themselves during the steamiest part of the day

Add A Pool Or Poolside Oasis

A couple lounging under a freestanding awning next to a backyard pool

Nothing can cool you off like a swim in the pool. If you have the means for this beloved summer renovation in Minneapolis, add a pool for a season of fun and relaxation. Your contractor can walk you through various features to create an amazing custom pool you’ll love for years. A pool also adds value to your home.

Have a pool already? Consider adding a pool house, cabana bar, or simply a shade structure for a poolside lounge area. Planters, seating, and tables for beverages and snacks give your pool a resort-like feel.

Escape The Heat With Outdoor Shade

A back patio with furniture and a striped awning over it

If you’ve been staying away from your patio or deck on sweltering days, put up an awning for the summer. A retractable awning attached to your house is the most convenient solution. Using a hand crank or electrical switch, you can unfurl your awning for immediate relief on bright, sunny days, making your outdoor living area more enjoyable.

If your patio or porch is already covered, but you still need more shade or privacy, look into exterior screen shades. You can lower these screens like large window shades to protect against bugs, debris, and sun glare. Your friends and family will appreciate hanging out and playing outside without the sun in their eyes.

Give Your Three-Season Room Some Attention

Tan window shades on windows and skylights in a large sunroom

Whereas many Minneapolis families update their main living spaces, sunrooms and three-season rooms don’t always get the same treatment. These more casual areas are often overlooked, but you’ll get so much more out of yours this summer when you make some simple upgrades. To begin, some comfy furniture sets the stage for both entertaining and relaxing. Add your own style with a rug and throw pillows, but don’t overdo the decorating.

Sunrooms and three-season rooms are excellent for keeping your favorite houseplants. Before you finish, add some functional but stylish window treatments that open to provide you a view outdoors but also close easily to guard against heat and sun glare.

Your Summer Upgrade Starts At Sunburst!

Start your Minneapolis summer renovation by calling the window treatment experts at Sunburst Shutters Minneapolis. We install a range of high-quality products built to block intense UV rays and sunlight during the summer. Give us a call at 952-856-8130 or submit the form on this page to book a free in-home consultation. We’ll help you find the perfect window treatment for enjoying summer and every season in your Minneapolis home!

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