Cellular shades are the most popular customer choice here at SelectBlinds. The purpose of this high-level guide is to break down the basics of cellulars and answer any questions you have about them. We’ll help you understand the different terms and features so that you’ll feel more confident throughout your journey. And if you have more questions, you can always call our Design Consultants!
What Even Are Cellular Shades?
Cellular shades are constructed by several soft-spun lace fabric “cells” that resemble a honeycomb. (Some people also call them honeycomb shades.) They act similarly to an accordion in that they expand or compress when you raise or lower them. The cell construction traps air and heat and provides insulation, which makes them the most energy-efficient window covering. In addition to their functionality, cellular shades come in a variety of colors, and they can be framed with curtains or drapes to create dimension.
Types of Cellular Shades
Single Cell vs. Double Cell
SelectBlinds cellular shades come in single- or double-cell constructions. Double cells simply means there is twice the amount of cells. It traps more air and adds another layer of insulation.
Light Filtering vs. Blackout
Both light-filtering and blackout shades block harmful UV rays. Light-filtering shades softly filters in light and creates a soft glow in the room. For blackout shades, the inside of the of the cells are lined with mylar, and it blocks up to 99 percent of incoming light.
Customer Review
“It was a cinch! Measurements were perfect, and they look so classy. We slept so much better in the dark, and to our pleasant surprise, it kept the rooms warmer!”
– Donna from Colorado
Pictured: Cordless Blackout Cellular Shades in Pebble
Top Down Bottom Up
Top Down Bottom Up cellular shades maintain your privacy while allowing incoming light. They utilize a mounted top rail along with a second floating rail that can be operated independently. To adjust them, you pull the tab down to lower the top of the shade and up to raise the bottom of the shade.
Trishades
Eliminate the need for multiple coverings with this two-in-one custom window treatment. Trishades can both filter light or black it out entirely, depending on how you adjust the sections. Simply pull down the light-filtering handle to let light in, or pull up on the handle for the blackout feature.
Why You’ll Love Them
- Energy efficient – The “cell” construction traps air and provides insulation from the heat and cold. In addition to insulation, the soft fabric diffuses light and reduces heat from entering the room, saving you money on electricity.
- Noise reduction – Their layers block out not only light, but also outside noise. Put them in rooms by busy streets to block out extra commotion.
- Light Control – Blackout cellulars can block up to 99% of incoming light.
- Cordless or Motorization Lifts – Like all our blinds, you can choose if you’d like a Continuous Cord Loop Lift or one of our Cordless Lift options. Motorization is another feature that customers love. Choose from a remote control, motorized wand, or home automation system.
How to Choose the Right Cellular Shades for Your Home
When choosing the shade, factor in the climate where you live, where in the home the shade is going, and the size of your window.
If you’re somewhere temperamental, a double-cell shade will keep your home warm in the winter and cool in the summer. If you live somewhere warm, a single-cell shade may provide enough insulation for you.
SelectBlinds cellular shades come in a variety of pleat sizes, from ⅜” to 2” wide. Typically, double-cell construction means smaller pleats, and single-cell means larger pleats. Smaller pleats will look more natural in shorter window frames; while the wider pleats are more proportional for larger sized windows.
Wider pleats are also lighter per square foot, which makes them ideal for large sliding doors and wider windows. This principle also applies when using them for skylight blinds and arches and window arches.
Because of their fabric material, cellular shades can absorb moisture and even odors. They’re not ideal for rooms exposed to condensation, such as kitchens or bathrooms. They are great though for rooms by busy streets because they reduce sound, and blackout cellulars help support a better night’s sleep.
Customer Review
I have installed dozens and dozens of shades during my lifetime, both personally and professionally. This blind was the easiest install I have ever done. It took longer to remove the old shade and hardware than it did to install the new unit.
– Bob from North Dakota
Pictured: Cordless Light Filtering Top Down Bottom Up Shades in Stone Wall
What’s Next?
Our process is 100% do-it-yourself! We’re a DIY company, but that doesn’t mean we won’t be there for you every step of the way when you need us. Along with our Design Consultants, we also have instructional guides and/or videos on how to measure, install and even clean your shades!
Call or chat with one of our Design Consultants to learn more about cellulars! Call (888) 257-1840. They’re easy to talk to!
