What is the Difference Between Solar Shades and Roller Shades?

Most privacy-providing blinds, such as roller shades or cellular shades, are made with materials that are non-see through. This is the main difference between roller shades and solar shades. Roller shades, typically made of polyester or vinyl material, do provide privacy to the room. On the other hand, both interior and exterior solar shades, also known as sun shades or solar blinds, are made with a see-through sheer fabric that enables the user to see the view on the other side. That said, solar shades go by an openness percentage that indicates the tightness of the fabric's weave and its efficiency to block harmful UV rays. A 1% fabric would block 99% of UV and allow less see-through capabilities, while a higher percentage, like a 10% fabric would block 90% of UV and allow more see-through capabilities. Essentially, both the roller shades and solar shades are great window coverings to filter light and block UV rays entering the room.

Blackout Roller Shades vs Light Filtering Roller Shades

Roller shades are available in different textures and colours to elevate your interior style and give you the light control you need. Light filtering fabrics allow filtered light into the room while giving you privacy and a layer of protection from the sunlight. Darker tones of light filtering fabrics are considered room darkening fabrics as it filters more light than brighter toned-materials. These are perfect for rooms that need less light such as living rooms or kitchens. When complete darkness is needed; however, blackout shades are the way to go. Perfect for media rooms and bedrooms, blackout roller shades block the sun coming through the windows. Please note that light gaps do occur due to the manufacturing of the shades- to which side channels or light blockers are used for.

Comparing Roller Shade to Other Window Blinds

Roller shades are the simplest shades out there currently. There are no slats, pleats, or folds- just a straightforward fabric that rolls up and down. Cordless mechanisms are also available, making these child- and pet-safe like other cordless shades. Apart from other valances available for other blinds, customers can choose a cassette valance for roller shades which is a covering built into the shade. Shop and search our selection of easy- to- install roller shades and roller solar shades made with durable materials and fabrics. Enjoy our free shipping and save on your next window treatments with discounts on our products.