Choosing the right kind of shades is an easy-yet-powerful way to dramatically alter the look and feel of a room.

There are so many options to choose from. What can make buying a new set of shades challenging is sorting through all the styles and variations to find the perfect fit for your home.

Also, there are so many factors to consider. You have to think about size, fabric, lighting, color, etc.

Once you have an idea of what you need for your window, you can start considering the types of shades available. In your mind, picture how they go along with your room’s overall aesthetic.

To make your decision easier, we’ve compiled this list of the 9 most popular types of window shades.

#1. Honeycomb Shades

Also known as cellular shades, honeycomb shades are fantastic for increasing your home’s energy efficiency. The honeycomb cells that make up these shades trap the air between your window and the room.

During wintertime, this helps conserve heat indoors. During the summer, these same cells help keep your home cool.

#2. Solar Shades

These are great for light control. Solar shades work by filtering sunlight. They limit the light that comes in without completely obscuring your view of the outside.

#3. Sheers

Sheers and semi-sheers are a smart option for when you need a lot of light and don’t need a lot of privacy.

They’re also very decorative, giving your room a refined touch.

#4. Panel Track

Panel track shades are a beautiful alternative to vertical blinds.

These types of shades consist of panels covered with fabric. You slide them into place to cover up your windows.

Panel track shades work best for living rooms, dining rooms, and other large spaces.

#5. Natural Woven Shades

Woven shades can be made from many different natural materials; for example, reeds and grasses.

These shades are among the best when you need privacy.

#6. Roller Shades

Roller shades ofter a lot of choice when it comes to lifting systems. They are very effective at blocking out sunlight, especially in combination with drapes and valances.

#7. Pleated Shades

Pleated shades consist of a single piece of fabric. They’re pulled tightly and have many horizontal folds–giving the appearance of slats.

#8. Roman Shades

Roman shades are among the most popular types of shades around. Like pleated shades, they’re a single piece of fabric. They’re easily lowered thanks to their horizontal folds.

#9. Motorized Shades

Motorized shades give you the most convenience. The latest technology allows you to open up all your shades with just the flip of a switch.

Hunter Douglas makes motorized shades that you can sync to a smartphone app. You can even program the shades to open automatically everyday at the time of your choosing.

Conclusion

As you can see, there’s no shortage of options when shopping for window shades.

If you need help choosing the shades that are right for your windows, go ahead and Contact Us. We can send a design specialist to your home for a complementary consultation.