Framing a clear case for the benefits of cellular shades
Cellular shades are energy efficient and reduce noise, helping you lower energy bills while creating a quieter, more comfortable home environment.
Motorized cellular shades reach $2,600, while standard cordless options cost less and still provide excellent light control and insulation for your windows.
Your cellular shades need regular dusting and spot cleaning with a damp cloth, but avoid submerging them in water to prevent permanent shape damage.
Blinds, curtains, shades—oh my! When it comes to making a house a home, there are many types of window treatments to choose from, all of which offer privacy and light control, but with different benefits and looks. Cellular shades, also known as honeycomb shades, are a popular alternative to traditional (and noisy) aluminum blinds or heavy curtains.
Learn more about this versatile treatment option to see if it’s the right fit for your home.
Cellular shades are made of pleated fabric cells, similar to the structure of a honeybee’s home. Unlike traditional blinds, which use a cord to open and close, cellular blinds operate in a very simple manner: You simply push the bottom up to raise the shades or pull it down to lower them.
They’re energy efficient, good at diffusing light, and offer a streamlined appearance that can match most decor styles. However, they’re not as durable as other options (especially if you buy from low-cost retailers) and aren’t as easy to clean.
You’ll want to hire a local window treatment pro to install your cellular shades so that you don’t accidentally damage them during a DIY gone wrong.
These shades are pretty versatile, with many options to choose from to make them the perfect fit for your home.
Single- versus double-cell shades: Single-cell shades have one layer of fabric, while double-cell shades have two. Each layer creates an air pocket that increases insulation, so double-cell shades have greater insulation and noise reduction.
Opacity: You can choose your opacity, giving you flexibility on whether you want light filtering or room-darkening window treatments. Opacities range from sheer to opaque or blackout.
Control: Most cellular shades are cordless, although there are corded options. Some open from both the bottom up and the top down for more flexibility. You can also upgrade to motorized cellular shades, which can easily reach $2,600.
Pleat size: You’ll buy shades with pleat sizes that match your window. So, if you’re covering a small window, you can get small pleats; large windows get large pleats.
Material: Some cellular shades are made with paper, which makes them very affordable but easily damaged. Fabric—like polyester, natural fibers, or vinyl—is a sturdier choice, if your budget allows. Both materials come in a variety of colors for the perfect match.
While there are a lot of benefits to cellular shades, we don’t want you to get blind sided by some of the drawbacks.
Highly customizable: With various shapes, sizes, colors, fabrics, and openings, cellular shades are highly customizable to your needs.
Very energy efficient: Cellular shades, especially double-cell ones, are very energy efficient and can lower your energy bills.
Sleek look: It’s hard to beat the look of cellular shades, especially if you’re upgrading from aluminum blinds. Plus, you can pick from a variety of colors and fabrics to match your specific style.
Reduces noise: In addition to filtering out light, cellular shades also filter noise, which is especially useful for nurseries or even as a window treatment for sliding glass doors.
Avoid submerging cellular shades in water as this could permanently damage their shape and lead to rust. You’ll want to only wipe them with a damp cloth and dry thoroughly.
More expensive: Compared to the cost to install blinds, cellular shades can be on the more expensive side. Choose paper cellular shades if budget is your top concern.
Not suitable for kitchens or bathrooms: Rooms with higher humidity shouldn’t use cellular shades, as the fabric can hold on to moisture and grow mold.
Harder to clean: The process for how to clean cellular shades is a bit more complicated and time-consuming than just getting out a duster.
We have used Window Warriors many times with no issues. They arrived on time and were very professional . We have pets and Window Warrior team treated them very well, well trusted team.
Window Warrior of Columbus, Inc.I am highly satisfied with the window replacement service I received; the professionals from Savvy Exteriors were punctual and did an amazing job that exceeded my expectations.
Savvy ExteriorsI hired windows depot USA of central to install new windows in house in Oshawa. Ilya was very professional from the start, not only did he offered a great price, he also made sure the installation was on time. I am very satisfied with final outcome. The windows look great and the overall...
Window Depot USA of Central OhioDescription says they handle window repair including rotten hardwood - they called me back right away but didnâ t leave a voicemail. I followed up 3 days later and they said they donâ t do that kind of work.
Window-GurusWe had a gutter blockage that was causing water to sheet down the side of the house and ultimately it started to come in at a window (need mortar people next). Called around 7:30am, and he responded by 8am. He was able to come out the same morning and do a look over and clean out. He also...
From average costs to expert advice, get all the answers you need to get your job done.
Not all shades block out light equally. Some act as solar screens, blocking UV rays, while others completely block out the sun. From shades and curtains to blinds and shutters, here are some of the best window treatments to block out light.
Can I tint my house windows? Home window tinting is a small upgrade that can yield major benefits. Here’s everything you need to know before taking the plunge.
Looking to better insulate your windows? Read this guide to the best insulating window treatments that will help you save money.
When dressing a small window, you want to let in as much natural light as possible and avoid making a space look smaller. Here are 10 inspirational window treatment ideas for small windows—from blinds to shutters to patterns and colors.
Find out about the different types of skylight shades and which one is right for you. Learn all about skylight shades here.
Are you looking for plants to include in your shaded gardens? Read on for the best varieties to choose.
