What is the Difference Between Solar & Roller Shades?
Roller and solar shades are among the most popular window treatment options, thanks to their modern, sleek look. However, so many people find it challenging to differentiate between the two. In some cases, you’ll find the terms solar shades and roller shades used interchangeably. However, there is a huge difference between the two.
Solar shades and roller shades may look very similar to the untrained eye. But with a little investigation, you can notice the differences between them. Knowing the difference between the two will allow you to choose the right shades that will work for your home. That’s why at Arizona Blinds Express, we’ll help you know how to distinguish the two so that you can decide which option is best for you. Using our 25 years of experience and knowledge, let’s look at the differences between solar and roller shades.
What Are Roller Shades?
Roller Shades are simple window coverings with a solid piece of material to cover the window. They do not have slats or sections, and the material is wrapped around the tubelike rolling mechanism at the top of the roller shades. When you pull down, the window covering rolls out and grows in length. If you pull it in the opposite direction, the fabric re-wraps the tube and becomes shorter. Because of their simplicity, roller shades come with a whole lot of possibilities.
The shade portion can be made from various fabrics, including natural and synthetic materials.
You’ll have a wide range of colors, patterns, and opacity to choose from. Since the window coverings are made of solid material, roller shades are often used to block any light from entering a room completely. Roller shades are also available in many opacities ranging from sheer to light-filtering, allowing you to customize them to complement your living space.
What Are Solar Shades?
Solar shades are also simple window coverings similar to roller shades. Like roller shades, they do not have veins or slats. They have a single sheet of material that can be pulled up and down via a roller and tube mechanism to cover the window. The window covering is woven screen-like material, making solar shades more expensive than roller shades.
Besides light control, solar shades are also designed to block harsh UV rays from entering your space, helping you regulate the temperature in your home, reduce glare and prevent your furniture and carpets from fading from the sun. These light filtering capabilities make solar shades excellent treatment options for windows in homes exposed to the sun.
The most important thing to look for in solar shades is openness, which refers to the tightness of the weave and the amount of UV rays it allows through. For example, 14 percent openness means that the shades allow 14 percent of UV rays while blocking out 86% of UV rays from entering your home. Solar shades come in various ranges of openness, ranging from 1 to 14 percent. You can choose solar shades based on the amount of light you would like to let into your home and the transparency you would like to achieve.
Roller Shades Vs. Solar Shades: The Similarities
So, why do people confuse roller shades with solar shades? Let’s look at the common features in both:
- They both have a roller mechanism.
- Both roller and solar shades allow you to control the amount of light entering a room.
- Both have blackout capabilities.
- They both have no pleats, giving them a smooth touch.
- Both solar and roller shades keep a low-profile appearance.
- They are both measured for and installed the same way.
- They come in various options, including metal chain lifts, nylon chain lifts, cordless spring rollers, and cassette valances.
- Both have the ability to reverse roll.
Roller Shades Vs. Solar Shades: The Differences
With so many similarities, it can be quite challenging to differentiate roller shades and solar shades. However, there is more to know about shades and blinds than you would expect. To determine how best they will work in your home, let’s look at the differences between the roller and solar shades.
- Solar shades are mainly designed to block UV rays, while roller shades just prevent light from entering your home
- Solar shades can be seen through, while roller shades cannot be seen through
- Solar shades come in neutral colors, while roller shades come in vibrant colors
- Solar shades are made of screen-like material, while roller shades are made of fabric and vinyl materials
Schedule a Consultation for Roller Shades in Scottsdale Today!
Even though they may look similar, solar shades and roller shades have distinct features, uses, and benefits. The major difference between the two is the material that is used to make them. If you’re still having problems deciding between the two, our experts are here to help you choose the best option.
At Arizona Blinds Express, we understand that you want to transform your home with the best window treatments. With our professional installation, you’ll not only receive the best window treatment services but also find the best shades that fit your unique personality.
Schedule a free consultation for roller shades in Scottsdale today and learn more about your options.