Cellular Window Shades

Cellular window shades have withstood the test of time. Installed in homes around the world for over 30 years, these stylish window coverings are enjoying resurgence in popularity.  There is an ever increasing need for us to focus on the environment and these window coverings are famous for their ability to save energy around the home.

These cellular window shades are often called honeycomb blinds because that is how the cell structure looks upon closer examination. They are often made up of fabric that is glued or sewn together into pleats in a fashion that leaves a cellular or honeycomb type pattern. From the side, this pattern looks similar to a beehive. The cells of air trapped between the fabric layers provide excellent insulation from the elements. These cells of trapped air insulate the window stopping the transfer of heat or cold from the outside of the window. They also trap the warmth or cool inside, preventing it from escaping through the window glass. This ability to insulate the window is why cellular window shades are great for energy saving. By providing great insulation on your windows you can reduce your heating or cooling costs and reduce your carbon footprint.

Cellular window shades can be used for many purposes. Some are specifically designed to act as a block out blind. These types are manufactured slightly differently and include a tri-laminate backing to help block out any light that might usually pass through the fabric. Other types of cellular shades may be used to filter the light rather than block it out completely.

Cellular window shades are not only functional but very aesthetically pleasing as well. Made from many different types of fabrics, it is easy to find a texture or pattern that will suit your décor.  Most types are made from 100% polyester; however cotton shades are becoming popular more recently as well.

The cellular window shades can be retracted in many different ways; some more modern varieties are even motorized. The most common variety is the bottom up where the shade simply goes up or down. These types generally have a cord or string on one side of the blind. Pulling on the cord makes the blind go up and when you pull the string out to the side the blind locks in the up position. Pulling on the cord towards the middle of the blind releases the blind from the up position and the blind goes back down.

Continuous cordless blinds are becoming more popular as you don’t have to worry about the cord getting longer when the blind is retracted. This type works on a continuous cord so that the cord is contained on a roller mechanism on the side of the blind. This option is very good for larger blinds because it offers more stability.
Some cellular window shades are completely cordless. This is a popular option for children’s rooms where you don’t want to worry about them playing with the cord or becoming tangled in it. These types of cellular window shades only have a handle at the bottom of the blind that is useful for opening or closing the blind.

Top down, bottom up blinds work in a reverse manner to the standard blind. In these blinds, the bottom of the blind remains in position and the top of the blind is brought down.  These types of cellular window shades have two head rails and two sets of strings that work similar to the standard bottom up variety.