Welcome to the ultimate buying guide for window shades and thus your start into a new quality of life. This comprehensive buying guide is your roadmap to making the right choice and finding the best window shade for you. Here you’ll find information on what are shades and why you need them, everything concerning price points, color matching as well as comparisons of the different types of window shades.
1. What are window shades and why you need them.
- Window shades are covers for your windows that not only look good, but offer functional benefits such as enhanced privacy, energy efficiency and temperature control.
In short: The sleekest way to up your life quality while your costs of living go down. Window shades, or window coverings and window treatments, are not only for decorative purposes but also come with a wide range of functional benefits (and color options). Enjoy more privacy, energy-efficiency, pleasant room temperatures and an overall cozy atmosphere without having to turn your home upside down. No need for new windows, expensive tech-stuff or even a move: Window coverings do the trick without the fuss.
What are the different types of shades?
Window coverings come in various styles, forms and each with its own beneficial functions. Choose from light filtering shades, sheer shades, insulating window treatments, pleated shades, roller shades and more. Let us show you some of the most common shade types along with their advantages.
Top down bottom up shades: What are top down bottom up shades?
- Top down bottom up shades can be arbitrarily raised and lowered from the bottom and from the top giving endless positioning options.
Top down bottom up shades can in most cases appear in the form of pleated shades or cellular shades. As the name suggests, these window coverings can be adjusted from the top as well as from the bottom by raising or lowering the top and/or bottom profile rail. This allows you to uncover either the top part of the glass pane, the bottom part or the top and bottom part and therefore gives you endless flexibility.
How do top down bottom up shades work?
- These shades can be fixed in any position due to their profile rails being connected by tensioned cords.
Each pleated shade has a tension spring at each end of the profile rail. The cords are attached to each of these four tension springs. This type of pleated shade is more precisely called “tensioned pleated shade”, because the cords must be permanently under tension in order for the pleated shade to hold on the window. To achieve this permanent tension, the cords cross inside the pleated blind. This means that the cord that starts at the lower profile rail in the right corner comes out again at the upper profile rail at the left corner and vice versa. Therefore a pull on the left top cord moves the bottom right corner of the profile rail up. For a smooth and even open and close movement of the pleated shade, the knots on both strings should be on the same height.
Light filtering shades: What are light filtering shades?
- Light-filtering shades are window coverings that let natural light through while still bewaring your privacy.
- Pleated shades and roller shades can both serve as options for light-filtering window treatments.
These window coverings are made to provide privacy without having to sacrifice light incidence. In fact, they diffuse the light evenly, letting just the right amount into your home. How much light really comes through depends on the fabric’s opacity. However, they are the perfect choice for the kitchen or bathroom.
What exact type of light filtering shade is best depends on your windows as well as your interior preferences. Light filtering shades can be both pleated shades or roller shades.
Pleated shades
Pleated shades can be raised and lowered from top to bottom or from bottom to top, giving endless possibilities of covering your window pane. Whether you prefer the top part of your window pane to be uncovered or the bottom part or even the top and bottom part, with pleated shades endless combinations are possible, as they are sleek and endlessly adjustable in height.
Check out our detailed buying guide for pleated shades:
Roller shades
Roller shades with a Day & Night function give you one shade but with two options to choose from when it comes to privacy and light transmission. As they are equipped with two layers of opaque and translucent strips of fabric, you can enjoy a higher level of privacy and little less light by overlapping the opaque strips over the translucent strips or overlap the opaque and translucent strips respectively and have more sun shine through whenever you need it. Dual-functional and adjustable in a snap with a simple pull on the chain.
Check out our detailed buying guide for roller shades:
Sheer shades: What are sheer shades?
- Sheer shades let the most natural light into the room and enable you to enjoy the outside view even when completely drawn.
Sheer shades have a see-through fabric with a low fabric opacity. In other words: Even fully closed window coverings let you see through the window. These are ideal for creating a soft glow inside your home and eliminating any harsh light without sacrificing a beautiful view of the outside. Light filtering window treatments like Day & Night Roller shades can also be sheer shades, when opting for a low fabric opacity with a fabric color like White.
Solar shades: What are solar shades?
- Solar shades are armed with a silver coating and prevent unpleasant outside temperatures from entering the room.
Solar window coverings are designed to insulate and keep the heat and cold out of the room. These window treatments are equipped with a special silver coating at the back (the side facing the window) which not only makes the fabric a bit thicker preventing unwanted cold to enter the room quickly, but also reflects the sun rays while maintaining a pleasant room temperature.
What are solar roller shades?
- Roller shades with solar properties can be rolled down to any desired position for blocking the sunlight and still enjoying the view.
These are roller shades that have a solar or thermal function described above. The benefit of solar roller shades is that it gives not only the possibility of covering the whole window pane but also unwinding only a certain amount of fabric. By covering only the top part of the window pane you can still block sunlight, protecting furniture and floors from fading but won’t have to sacrifice the view. Therefore, if needed, only so much fabric can be rolled down to where the sun’s rays shine.
Honeycomb shades: What are honeycomb shades?
- Honeycomb shades offer maximum energy-efficiency, insulation, privacy and room-darkening.
These window coverings, also known as cellular shades, look as if two pleated shade fabrics were merged back to back. Double the fabric means double the fun. Honeycomb shades are a stylish way to maximize energy-efficiency by trapping hot and cold air in the cells or air-pockets between the two fabrics as well as maintaining full privacy and room darkening. In other words: They are the first class when it comes to window treatments.
Blackout shades: What are blackout shades?
- Blackout shades are designed to let no light through the fabric and provide room-darkening.
Blackout shades are often also solar shades but with an even higher energy-efficiency as well as full privacy. In addition, these window treatments are made for complete room darkening, meaning that no matter the color there’s always 0% light transmittance, ideal for a good night’s sleep (or a nap during the day). They are therefore perfect for the bedroom or the nursery as you can fully focus on the color matching. (Read more about color-matching in section 3: What color shades should I get)
Window coverings with a blackout function can be both roller shades or cellular honeycomb shades.
2. How much are window shades?
- The cost of window shades depends on various points, i.e. shade type, desired size as well as quality and features of fabric.
The question on how much do shades cost can not be answered in one short sentence as the cost depends on a couple of factors, such as the fabric’s quality, its functions, and customization options as well as the type of window shade. Solar shades with a thermal coating or blackout shades are therefore more expensive than regular light filtering shades.
Moreover, pleated shades are more expensive than roller shades but cheaper than Honeycomb/cellular shades.
However the biggest price determinant is the desired size combination. Round sizes are faster to produce and therefore cheaper whereas special orders with non-round sizes can be more expensive even if they are smaller than the next highest round sizes (i.e. 127 cm width would be more expensive than 130 cm).
How much do custom shades cost?
- Custom shades are more expensive than prefabricated shades, due to the possibility of personalization from A to Z.
Custom shades are always made individually for the customer and only after the order has been placed. These shades can be personalized in terms of fabric color, profile color, sizing and bracket type. Custom products are in general always a bit more expensive than regular prefabricated products, as the production process for custom shades requires more steps and therefore takes longer. However this way a perfect fit is guaranteed.
How much are motorized shades?
Motorized shades are on the pricier side, to the point where a window shade can go from $$ to $$$. When you’re gifted with handicrafts, consider buying a regular non-motorized shade and add a motorized mechanism afterwards. You can get away with the same functions but for less.
How much do shades cost per window?
The cost of a shade per window depends on whether you decide to mount one shade on one window or two shades per window, which, in turn, depends on the preferred window shade type.
One shade per glass pane
- This fitting option results in a higher cost of shades per window.
Having one window with two separate glass panes next to each other and opting for a pleated shade or a cellular shade, the only way would be to mount one shade per glass pane, making the cost of shades per window higher.
In general, suitable for the following window types:
- Bay window
- Bow window
- Palladian window
- French door window
- Garden window / winter garden
- Single-hung window
- Double-hung window
One shade per window
- This fitting option gives a lower cost of shades per window.
With one window but two glass panes one above the other, you could go for one pleated shade or one roller shade for the whole window and therefore lowering the cost per window.
Keep in mind that the above examples are just that: examples. Each window is different and should therefore be treated individually. Hence, sometimes for instance one window shade could work when having two glass panes next to each other.
In general, one shade per window is suitable for the following window types:
- Awning window / Hopper window
- Casement window
- Glass block window
- Cottage window
- Center pivot window
- Oriel window
- Picture window
- Fixed window
- Skylight window
Why are shades so expensive?
- Shades are not cheap as they’re not only for appearance but lower your costs of living and raise your comfort.
That depends on the beholder’s eye. Even if having to spend $$ or $$$ on ‘just’ window coverings, you should look at it in the long run. Spending a certain one-off amount on window shades can lower the cost of living in general and these are certainly more than just two digit amounts. With window treatments you don’t just buy something to cover the window, you invest in your home and most importantly into your quality of life.
Therefore, window treatments are so expensive, because they are made of high quality materials that don’t just have the looks and serve as a decorative interior element, but also provide something even more precious and priceless: your well-being.
3. What color shades should I get
- The color of window shades could either match or be a contrast to your window trim, wall and interior design giving different end results.
There isn’t a universal solution. Your choices should align with your personal preferences. We recommend either closely matching the color of your shade to your window trim, wall, and overall decor, or selecting a complementary shade for a stylish contrast. This approach can create a sense of spaciousness or introduce a captivating burst of color to your windows. If you’re unsure or seeking versatility, neutral tones like whites, beiges, or grays are foolproof options. Neutrals are a consistently reliable choice.
Blackout roller shades
- Regardless of the color you choose for blackout roller shades, their functionality remains consistently effective.
For Blackout roller shades, color doesn’t impact their maximum privacy feature. Whether you opt for darker hues or lighter tones like white and beige, these window coverings always guarantee complete seclusion. This means you can base your color choice solely on aesthetics, knowing that functionality remains intact regardless of your chosen shade.
Other shade types
- As to other window shade types, their fabric’s functionality depends on the chosen color.
Regarding other shade types like pleated shades or light-filtering roller shades, the level of opacity, privacy and light transmittance depends on the chosen fabric color. All light values to every color can be found in the product images on the product page of the desired window shade type.
What color window shades with white walls?
- Any color with white walls is possible: choose white for the room to appear bigger or opt for any other color to highlight your windows.
A white wall is like a white canvas. You can let your imagination run wild by having an artist’s palette at your fingertips. With the window shade color, you have two options: either a white shade with white walls to make the room appear bigger or choose a contrasting color to really accentuate the windows.
However contrasting doesn’t have to mean black or any bright color. To a white wall even gray can be a contrast. Neutral tones like grays or beiges in combination with a white wall give the room a luxurious touch and are also timeless. With white walls everything is possible.
4. Where to buy window shades
- Window shades can either be bought online or in a shop near your location. Both shopping paths have its own benefits.
When considering the comfort of purchasing window treatments in general, there are two approaches. You can opt to buy window shades online or conduct a local search such as ‘where to buy shades near me’ or ‘shades where to buy’ to explore brick-and-mortar stores in your vicinity.
Acquiring shades through online platforms introduces the convenience of price comparison, along with access to an extensive assortment of fabrics, colors, and size configurations. Conversely, a visit to a physical store allows you to immediately touch and feel the fabric, a tactile experience unavailable online without ordering fabric samples beforehand. Where to buy shades for windows is therefore an individual matter, as the different options come with its own benefits.
5. What are the best shades for windows
- Distinguish the differences among shades vs blinds, light-filtering vs room-darkening or insulating shades and find the best shade for your windows simply on your preferences.
Window treatments appear in a wide variety of shapes and colors: from roller shades to pleated shades or blinds with thermal or darkening functions. Sometimes a window shade is also referred to as a curtain, because it also covers the window and provides shade. However in this particular buying guide we focus strictly on customized roller and pleated shades with their diverse functions, because everything that’s personalized is automatically a million times better. Don’t you agree?
Blinds vs Shades: What is the difference between blinds and shade?
- Blinds and shades are not the same.
A lot of times these two terms are being used interchangeably. So for many people blinds are the same as shades and therefore sometimes one would say blinds but technically speaking meant shades. We’re here to clarify all the technical deets so that you will be the pro with the insider knowledge at the next friends and family gathering.
So, what is the difference between shades and blinds?
Blinds
- Blinds are made out of hard materials like metal or wood.
- They always look similar and differ only in the material from which they are crafted.
These window treatments can either be horizontal or vertical. Their individual slats are made of hard, solid materials like metal, various wood types or even bamboo. When speaking of horizontal blinds, these slats are combined with vertical cords and for vertical blinds their single slats are joined by horizontal cords at the top and bottom. Blinds are equipped with an additional cord allowing for the adjustment of the slats: by a simple pull the slats can be fully closed, opened or even tilted.
Shades
- Shades are made out of soft fabrics like cotton or polyester.
- They appear in divergent forms like pleated shades, roller shades, roman shades and more.
These window coverings are available in diverse forms and colors: from roller shades to pleated shades, cellular shades or roman shades. The main difference to blinds is that shades are made from soft materials (i.e. fabrics) like cotton, polyester, linen etc. They allow for a higher flexibility in terms of light transmittance, energy-efficiency, privacy and design.
What is the difference between light filtering and room darkening shades?
- Light filtering shades are the opposite of room darkening window treatments.
- The former lets natural light through while the latter reduces light transmission.
Light filtering shades
Light filtering window treatments are designed to let a certain amount of light through while still providing privacy. How much light comes through depends on the light transmittance value of the fabric as well as the features of the fabric itself. Thus, a shade with a light transmittance of 50% is just a light filtering shade as a shade with a value of 20% is. Light filtering window shades are the ideal companion in kitchens, bathrooms or living rooms.
Room darkening shades
On the other hand, the main feature of room darkening window treatments is their ability to block out light and provide room darkening to a certain extent depending on the light transmittance value (the lower the value, the darker the room). These window coverings are best suited for bedrooms or nurseries, as they are perfect for a good sleep during any time of day. An additional benefit of these covers is temperature control: the less light comes through the less the room heats up.
What shades look best from outside?
- Choose among shades with consistent colors both inside and outside or opt for a colorful inside with a light gray exterior.
It all comes down to personal preference. Are you in search of window treatments that maintain consistent colors from both the interior and exterior views of your home? If so, consider double Day & Night roller shades or pleated shades without additional thermal functionality.
On the other hand, if your preference is for an ‘incognito’ effect – where the window coverings appear in your chosen color from the inside, while adopting a light gray or nearly silver hue from the outside – then Thermal Blackout roller shades or Thermo pleated shades offer the perfect solution.
What shades are best for blocking heat?
- Solar shades are equipped with a silver coating, making them the most effective choice for heat blocking.
Every type of window covering blocks heat to some extent. In general: the lower the light transmittance value of the fabric the less light and heat enters the room. However there exist some super special window coverings, whose mission in life is to block heat and give you the best heat blocking experience. Try thermo pleated shades, cellular shades or blackout roller shades as they’re all equipped with a specially developed, silvery coating at the back of the fabric. This coating is a champ in terms of reflecting sun rays and blocking heat. Try for yourself and share your experience with us!
What are the best blackout shades?
- The fabric of cellular shades and blackout roller shades doesn’t let any light through, making them the ultimate blackout shades.
The best blackout shades have a close to zero or exact 0% light transmittance value. The light transmittance value tells you how much light enters the room in comparison to a window without any window covering. A value of 0% means that no light enters the room, which by implication means totally blackout or fully darkening. To turn a blackout shade into the best blackout shade, consider one with a thermal coating at the back of the fabric. This way you not only minimize light transmittance, but also maximize temperature control, heat blocking and energy-efficiency. A true win-win!
What type of shades are in style?
- All window shades are a timeless choice, although cellular shades will be the next big thing!
Caring for your well-being as well as the climate is always in style, which is why it’s safe to say that any kind of shade is and will be in style. On the other hand, trends come and go. Picking a particular window shade type may be out of style today, but in style again in a couple of weeks, months or years. So, rest assured regarding being always up-to-date: every type of window shade will enjoy its moment as the trendsetter at least a few times within your lifetime. However pssssst, we heard that cellular shades are the trend on the horizon. You heard it from us first!