The Many Styles of Window Shades

A window shade is a specific type of window covering that is one of the most effective ways for keeping the sun out.  As with all the other window coverings and window treatments available to you these days, window shades come in a wide variety of styles, looks and price points.

Simple Fabric Shades

The most cost effective type of window shade is the simple spring-loaded fabric shade.  While this may not be the most visually stunning window treatment, it is extremely effective for keeping out the sun and creating privacy.  Some styles are fancier than others and you may be surprised at the level of elegance that is available in some of the more expensive product lines and what can be custom made.

Honeycomb Shades and Pleated Shades

Honeycomb shades (made popular by Hunter Douglas) are styled like a series of honeycomb shaped tubes fastened together.  By design, the trapped air space in these shades helps to reduce heat gain or heat loss while providing an aesthetically pleasing style.  Honeycomb window shades can be made two and three rows deep to further improve performance.  Since Honeycomb shades and their cousin pleated shades are highly customizable they have the added bonus of fitting those odd windows that you can never seem to fit properly with other treatments.

Wooden Shades

If you like the warmth of wooden window blinds, but prefer a shade, a woven wood window shade is also available as an option.  This may be a bit more costly than other window shades, but they do look more elegant and give you the warmth and natural feel of wood.  Woven wood blinds are made from thin pieces of wood, bamboo, grass or reeds.  Due to the weave, a fair amount of daylight can pass easily into the room.  However, woven wood window shades can be lined to decrease light and add privacy.

Roman Shades

Another beautiful and elegant window shade is the roman shade which comes in a variety of designs and styles. For instance, with fabric roman shades, you have the choice of a flat roman shade or a relaxed roman shade.  If you want custom made, you can choose from a hobbled roman shade, a perma-pleat roman shade, a cascade roman shade, or a dual fold roman shade. Wood and bamboo roman shades are available as well!

Choices, Choices, Choices!

Window shades can be used as stand alone window treatments or paired with curtains, valances and interior shutters to create just the right environment to highlight the beauty and personality of your home. At Beyond Blinds, our friendly and helpful design team can help you find the window shade that is just right for you and your budget.  Call us today at 630-232-9901 and let us share our insights with you and help you design the window treatments of your dreams.