Shades are an important part of home decor, adding style and functionality to any room. They create atmosphere, privacy, and can help control the amount of light that enters a space. Many different types of shades are available on the market today, each with its advantages and disadvantages. In this article, we will explore two popular styles – cellular shades and pleated shades – to help you make an informed decision about which type is right for your home.
Cellular Shades
Cellular shades, also known as honeycomb shades, are made from two or more layers of fabric woven together in a cellular pattern. They form pockets of air between each layer, which acts as insulation to keep the room warmer in winter and cooler in summer. This makes them an energy-efficient choice for any home.
Cellular shades offer excellent light control and privacy. They come in a variety of colors and styles, from sheer to blackout, allowing for complete customization of the look and feel of your room. Additionally, their unique cellular design helps absorb sound, making them great for rooms that tend to be loud or reverberate noise easily.
Though cellular shades are an excellent choice for any home, they do have some drawbacks. When closed, they offer a limited view to the outside. They can also accumulate dust over time, which requires regular cleaning and maintenance. Additionally, cellular shades are more expensive than other types of window treatments.
Pleated Shades
Pleated shades, also known as pleated blinds, are an affordable and versatile window covering. They are made from a single continuous piece of fabric that has been folded into pleats and held in place with string or tape. This allows the shade to be drawn up completely for an unobstructed view out of the window.
Pleated shades are available in a wide range of styles, colors, and textures, so they can easily be matched to any decor. They are very low-maintenance and easy to clean – simply dust or vacuum them regularly to keep them looking their best.
Though pleated shades may offer less insulation than cellular shades, they still provide some degree of energy savings by blocking out direct sunlight. The pleats also offer a degree of light control, though not as much as cellular shades. Additionally, they can be somewhat difficult to install and may not provide complete privacy when closed.
Differences Between Cellular and Pleated Shades
Structure and design variations: Cellular shades have a honeycomb-shaped design, while pleated shades feature crisp pleats.
Insulation and energy efficiency capabilities: Cellular shades excel in energy efficiency and insulation, while pleated shades provide moderate insulation.
Light control and privacy options: Cellular shades offer a wider range of light control and privacy options, including room darkening and blackout capabilities.Customization and style choices: Pleated shades offer a broader range of style options, including various colors, patterns, and fabrics.
Determining the Right Shades for Your Home
When it comes to choosing the right shades for your home, there are several factors to consider. From energy efficiency to style options, light control, and lift types, understanding your needs and preferences will help you make an informed decision.
Energy Efficiency
One of the key considerations when selecting shades is their energy efficiency. Efficient window coverings can help regulate indoor temperatures and reduce energy consumption. Both cellular shades and pleated shades offer excellent energy efficiency features. With their honeycomb-shaped cells, cellular shades create insulating pockets of air that help prevent heat transfer. Although not as thermally efficient as cellular shades, pleated shades still provide some level of insulation and contribute to energy savings.
Style and Versatility
Another important aspect to consider is the style and versatility of the shades. Window coverings should complement your home’s decor and contribute to its overall aesthetic appeal. Pleated shades offer a wide range of style options, including different fabric choices, colors, and patterns. They can be easily customized to match your interior design preferences. Although more limited in fabric options due to their unique structure, cellular shades still offer versatility in colors and light control options.
Light Control
Controlling the amount of light entering your home is essential for creating a comfortable ambiance and protecting your privacy. Both cellular shades and pleated shades provide varying levels of light control. Cellular shades offer a wider range, including light filtering, room darkening, and blackout options. These shades are designed to block out light and provide maximum privacy when needed. While offering some light filtering options, pleated shades may not provide the same level of darkness as cellular shades in the room darkening or blackout categories.
Lift Types
Selecting the right lift system for your window treatment can greatly impact its overall appearance and functionality. When it comes to pleated and cellular shades, you have the option to choose between cordless or wand-control systems, as well as the popular top-down bottom-up format.
Opting for the top-down bottom-up feature provides you with increased flexibility in controlling the amount of light entering your space. With this configuration, you can effortlessly open the top portion of the shade to invite natural light while keeping the bottom portion closed for enhanced privacy. This allows you to strike the perfect balance between enjoying sunlight and maintaining a secluded atmosphere in your room.
Best Places to Hang Pleated Shades
In bathrooms, pleated shades provide the perfect combination of privacy and natural light. The pleats diffuse the sunlight, creating a warm glow in the space without sacrificing privacy.
In bedrooms, pleated shades provide an elegant and modern look. They are perfect for creating a cozy atmosphere and blocking out unwanted light or noise. If you prefer a more traditional look, consider opting for sheer pleated shades to let in natural light while still providing privacy.
Pleated shades can also be used in the living area. They offer a modern yet timeless look and balance natural light and privacy perfectly. The pleats allow for diffused sunlight, creating an inviting atmosphere to relax in.
Best Places to Hang Cellular Shades
Cellular shades are a great choice for any room in your home, as they offer energy efficiency, light control, and an easy-to-maintain design.
In bedrooms, cellular shades provide excellent insulation and privacy. With their honeycomb structure, they help regulate interior temperatures while providing complete darkness and blocking out noise. Plus, the sheer fabric options offer a subtle translucence that still allows natural light to enter the room.
In living areas, cellular shades are perfect for creating an inviting atmosphere. With their sheer fabric choices, you can enjoy diffused sunlight while keeping out excess heat from direct sun exposure. For added convenience, you can opt for motorized or cordless lifts to raise and lower your shades with just the press of a button.
In bathrooms, cellular shades provide excellent insulation and are great for blocking out moisture. With their honeycomb structure, they help keep the interior temperature cooler while still allowing natural light to enter the room. Plus, you can choose fabric options that will let in more or less light depending on your preferences.
Making The Decision
When choosing cellular shades vs pleated shades, know that each has their own unique benefits and features. By considering factors such as energy efficiency needs, light control preferences, design aesthetics, and budget, you can make an informed decision. Whether you choose cellular shades for their exceptional insulation or pleated shades for their versatility and cost-effectiveness, both options can enhance your home decor and provide the functionality you desire. Explore the range of options available and find the perfect window coverings to transform your living spaces.
If you’re interested in exploring pleated shades further, be sure to check out the pleated shades collection from MITS Eastern Shore. With our wide range of styles, fabric choices, and customization options, they offer high-quality pleated shades that can elevate your home’s interior design. MITS Eastern Shore takes pride in providing top-notch window treatments to meet your specific requirements and enhance your living spaces. Take a look at our selection and discover the perfect pleated shades to transform your windows and create a welcoming atmosphere in your home.
