Adding window shades or blinds can completely change the look of your house or room. In addition to dramatically enhancing a room’s decor, they can serve several other purposes.
People often make the mistake of confusing window shades with blinds. Although they sound like similar concepts, the two are actually very different from each other.
The Ultimate Difference Between Window Shades and Blinds
Window shades are solid, window-size pieces of fabric that can be pulled up or let down with a cord or a motorized mechanism. Blinds, on the other hand, are stiff window coverings with slats that can be rolled open to reveal the view and light, or closed to block them out. Window blinds are usually used in corporate offices and commercial spaces, whereas window shades are typically used to decorate residential properties. Window shades come in handy for protecting your privacy and blocking unwanted sunlight.
Window shades pretty much resemble curtains. The only major differences are that they are the exact size of your window and they roll up instead of spreading open. Window shades are available in several different styles and designs. Due to the wide variety, selecting the perfect window shades for your house can be a daunting task. Once you find the perfect shade for your home, however, it will add a more elegant, contemporary finish to the structure.
It’s very important to consider the size and shape of your windows when choosing shades. You can buy ready-made shades if you have standard-size windows, or you can go for custom shades made of exotic materials that have a more exclusive and eye-catching style. Ready-made window shades look good and are not very pricey. You can also install Rollac open-style awnings to enjoy some quality shade and make your windows look more beautiful.
Here are the following seven most popular choices in window shades:
1. Roman shades
Roman shades are the most popular and most commonly used style of shade. They are made of a single long piece of cloth that covers the entire window. A series of horizontal folds running from top to bottom gives the shades a layered look when they are raised. This has a really eye-catching effect. These shades look somewhat similar to traditional blinds, but they are more like a combination of a traditional blind and a fabric drape. You can use custom fabrics in different colors in your custom-made roman shades.
2. Pleated
Pleated shades are somewhat similar to roman shades. They are also made from a single piece of cloth the same size as the window. Just like roman shades, they have horizontal folds that can be adjusted according to individual preference. The main differences between roman shades and pleated shades are that pleated shades don’t have the same drape and their folds are much smaller. When pulled up, they look more like slats because they have many more horizontal folds. Pleated shades come in a wide variety of cloth options, with a lot of different textures and colors.
3. Motorized shades
Motorized shades are the result of new technology and automation. Electric window shades offer ultimate convenience. The basic motorized shades are equipped with electric motors that allow you to raise and lower them with just the press of a button. This lets you avoid the hassle of struggling with a cord to adjust the shade. The modern, high-tech electric shades come with remote controls. Some of the more advanced shades even have timers. You can set the time, and the shades will raise or lower automatically at the set time, without you having to lift a finger.
4. Honeycomb shades
Honeycomb shades are also known as cellular shades. If you want to increase your home’s energy efficiency, honeycomb shades are the best, most attractive way to do so. They are made out of a special fabric that is configured into cells that resemble a honeycomb. The benefit of this design is that the cells trap air between the window and the room. This air absorbs more heat during the winter season. On the other hand, it helps you stay cooler during the summer season by keeping the heat at bay.
5. Roller shades
Roller shades also consist of a single piece of cloth that’s the actual size of your window. Roller shades come in a wide variety of cloth options and color choices. They also come with different lifting systems. Roller shades are made using a special fabric that rolls up completely, without the horizontal or pleated folds that are visible on roman shades. They are quite effective in blocking or filtering sunlight. Roller shades often come with a motorized lifting mechanism, which makes them very convenient and easy to use.
6. Solar shades
Solar window shades are designed to completely block the rays of the sun. They offer you a greater degree of light control. They are sometimes referred to as sunglasses for your windows. These shades are made up of a special fabric that blocks sunlight, but doesn’t block your view of the outdoor scenery. The degree of opacity depends on the amount of light these shades block. The more light they block, the more opaque your view will be.
7. Bamboo shades
Bamboo shades are basically sushi rolling mats that are large enough to cover your window. They are also known as Bali shades. Bamboo shades go perfectly with Asian and African-style decor. These shades work perfectly whether you want to give a room a more stylish look or keep the decor casual. Bamboo shades are strong and sturdy. They are far less expensive in comparison to other types of shades.
Final words
The many different styles of window shades offer variety and versatility. You can choose a shade that best suits your decor and serves the purpose you have in mind.
Ryan Holman, Working as a blogger since last few years. He likes to writer & share contents related to Technology and Gadgets. Currently, Ryan is working with Couponobox.com - Best Deals & Coupons website in USA.