What Are the Different Types of Window Shades?
Window shades are highly effective, easy to adjust, and suitable for many budgets. This makes shades one of the most popular types of window treatments, and they can be found in almost every home. However, there are many different types of window shades available on the market, and what works in one home—or one room—may not work in another. Because of this, it’s important to research all the options available to you before deciding on a particular style. Some of the most common types of window shades that you’ll want to consider include:
Roller Shades
Roller shades are arguably the most common type of window shades and are likely the style that first comes to mind when you think about shades. Simple and effective, roller shades are an understated option that allows the rest of the room’s décor to shine.
Roman Shades
Another popular style, Roman shades feature soft pleats that appear smooth when lowered but fold up into each other when raised. This creates the appearance of a valance at the top of the window. There are many different types of Roman shades, some of which fold straight across the bottom and others that end in soft curves of fabric.
Cellular Shades
For homeowners looking to boost energy efficiency with their window treatments, cellular shades are a great option. Cellular shades feature rows of thin, air-filled tubes of fabric, called cells. This creates an insulating layer between the window and the rest of the home’s interior, helping to minimize heat transfer. As a result, less energy is needed to keep the home at a comfortable temperature, which can potentially lead to a reduction in heating and cooling costs.
Solar Shades
Solar shades look just like Roman shades but are manufactured using a special fabric that reduces glare and blocks UV light. Due to the open-weave design of the fabric, you can see out through solar shades during the day, but passersby can’t see in. Unfortunately, the opposite is true at nighttime. Because of this, solar shades are most commonly used in public settings, like cafes and restaurants, though they can also be ideal for homeowners who live in remote areas.
Natural Shades
Also called woven shades, natural shades are crafted from organic materials, such as bamboo, jute, and rattan. This creates a calm earthy vibe that will make your home feel more relaxed. And, because they are made from renewable resources, natural woven shades are an environmentally friendly option.
Sheer Shades
Sheer shades combine the benefits of blinds and shades. They feature a set of inner vanes that look and act just like blinds but are encased in sheer fabric. This allows you to close the window covering entirely for privacy while still allowing soft, diffused light to enter the room.
Dual Shades
Dual shades are a unique style that features alternating strips of solid and sheer fabric. The shades offer two positions when rolled down—one in which the sheer strips are visible, allowing filtered light to enter the room, and the other in which the sheer strips are hidden beneath the solid fabric, creating total darkness and privacy.
Exterior Shades
As their name suggests, exterior shades are designed to be used in outdoor settings, such as around a patio or pergola. They are made from highly durable, easy-to-clean fabric that helps create shade and privacy around an outdoor living area.
Motorized Shades
Motorized shades are increasingly common thanks to the convenient and child-safe operation they allow for. Motorized shades eliminate the need for cords, as they can be raised and lowered with the touch of a button. Virtually any type of window shade can be automated, so there is no limit to style when you choose motorized shades.
Blackout Shades
Manufactured using a special room-darkening fabric, blackout shades create total darkness when rolled down. Almost any type of window shade can be made using blackout fabric.
Consult the Window Shade Expert
If you’d like to learn more about the different types of window shades, contact Southwest Blinds & Shutters. We are a professional window treatment company that installs a wide selection of premium window shades for home and business owners throughout the Southwestern United States. We would be happy to answer your questions and schedule a free consultation. Give us a call today to get started.
