Roller shades are a trending window treatment. Their functionality makes them a great fit for homes designed with clean lines in a modern or contemporary style.
But what are their benefits? How practical are they? And do they require a lot of maintenance? Let’s find out!
Before we explain the benefits of roller shades, let’s find out what they are.
Roller shades are window treatments operated with a rolling mechanism used to open and close them. They can be pulled high or low using a cord pulley system, and when drawn open, they wrap around in a roll neatly at the top of the window.
This classic window treatment can be adapted to a variety of interior decor styles. They are available in a wide range of materials, ranging from fabrics to aluminum, to fit into any room.
As for their benefits…
Roller shades are affordable enough to allow you to choose a design for every room. Other window treatments, like curtains and drapes, typically require a lot of fabric, which adds to their costs. Roller shades don’t require much fabric so their price is more reasonable.
The sleek, uncluttered design of roller shades streamlines the appearance of any window and makes any room timelessly elegant. Made using a single panel of fabric, these window coverings can be connected to a cord system or motorized roller. They can also be paired with other window treatments to offer optimal coverage.
Most standard window coverings offer minimal shade, and any changes need to be made manually. With roller shades, you have motorized options to offer ease of operation and greater safety for homes with children and/or pets. (This is because corded window coverings pose a strangulation hazard which motorized ones don’t.) This is particularly useful in rooms with hard-to-reach windows.
Motorized roller shades can be adjusted with a remote control or smart device app to adjust privacy and light. This also makes them suitable for seniors with mobility issues.
Drapes and curtains can make a room feel cluttered and claustrophobic, especially when it’s small or has many windows. Roller shades take up less space as they are nearly invisible when rolled up. Unlike curtains and drapes that still take up floor space when you draw them on one side, roller shades sit close to the window frame, look neat and streamlined, and completely roll away when not in use.
They’re also beneficial in terms of health. Contrary to other blinds and shades that collect dust and dirt and provoke allergic reactions, dust can’t settle on roller shades when they’re pulled up.
Roller shades only need to be cleaned once a year, and it’s relatively straightforward. First, take them off their brackets and spread them out on the floor. Next, use a cleaning solution made using a mix of mild liquid detergent and warm water. Air dry and press them before remounting them.
If you have a big house, you’re likely spending a lot on heating and cooling. Roller shades can reduce those costs as they create insulation by trapping warm air. This helps keep your interiors heated during the coldest seasons. They typically fit inside a window’s casing.
Alternatively, you can improve energy efficiency by having side channels installed to get rid of gaps between the window sill and shade. Pairing them with solar shades in summer increases the amount of sunlight being reflected, diminishes glare, and thus reduces the temperature inside, decreasing your summer utility bills.
Whether your home decor is contemporary or modern, you can be sure to find roller shades to suit. Roller shades come in virtually every fabric, colour and pattern, allowing them to be installed in any room.
For instance, if you’re looking for a window covering that offers a lot of privacy, get roller shades with blackout lining. Alternatively, if you want sunlight, choose an opaque fabric that filters light while keeping your interiors hidden. You can also pair them with drapery without them looking bulky or taking up too much room.
Your options are virtually limitless with roller shades. However, when considering opacity, you need to figure out the level of light control and privacy the room requires. Generally, there are four levels of opacity.
If you want a good amount of natural light but prefer it diffused or filtered softly, choose sheer fabrics. They allow a virtually limitless amount of light while also providing privacy.
Translucent fabrics allow in ample light while blocking out the view. This helps achieve the perfect balance between light control and privacy.
This option is suitable if you want to block sunlight while maintaining a view outside. They are ideal for study areas and living rooms.
If you don’t want sunlight waking you in the early hours, go for blackout fabric. They have room-darkening qualities that improve your quality of sleep.
Roller shades are a practical and versatile window covering option. Their minimal but functional design makes them suitable for any room. They come in a variety of styles and are one of the easiest window treatments to operate. With so many benefits, it makes sense to consider roller shades for your home.
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