Wondering which option out of light filtering, room darkening, and blackout shades will best suit your taste, style, and needs? Here is a detailed comparison of these three types of window treatments, while highlighting their differences and pros and cons.
Light Filtering vs Room Darkening vs Blackout Shades – What’s the Difference?
Light filtering, room darkening, and blackout shades are all types of window treatments for windows that are designed to control the amount of light that sails into your room.
- Light Filtering Shades: Light filtering shades for windows are typically made of sheer or semi-sheer fabric materials that allow some light to pass through, while also providing some privacy. They are a great option for rooms where you want natural light to come in but still want some level of privacy.
- Room Darkening Shades: Room darkening shades are made of heavier materials that block out more light than light-filtering shades, but they still allow some light to enter your room. These window coverings are an excellent choice for bedrooms, nurseries, or any other room where you want to reduce the amount of light coming in, but don’t necessarily need complete darkness.
- Blackout Shades: Blackout shades, as the very name suggests, are designed to completely block out all sunlight. They are usually made of thicker, opaque fabrics that do not allow any light to pass through. These window treatments are a good choice for bedrooms, media rooms, or any other room where you want complete darkness.
In short, light-filtering shades allow some light to pass through and provide some privacy. On the other hand, room-darkening shades block out more light than light-filtering shades, but they still allow some light to enter the room. And blackout shades for windows completely block out all light.
Pros and Cons of Light Filtering Shades
Light filtering shades have lots of advantages, such as illuminating your room’s interior, resisting damage from UV rays, and providing privacy. At the same time, they do have some disadvantages, for example, they are not a good choice for bedrooms.
Here are some of the pros and cons of light-filtering shades for windows.
Pros
- Allow natural light to enter your room.
- Provide some privacy in your home.
- Allow a view of the outside.
- Can be used on windows in any room, including living rooms and kitchens.
- Can be less expensive than room darkening or blackout window shades.
Cons
- May not provide enough privacy if your room is well-lit at night.
- May not block out enough sunlight for your rooms that receive a lot of direct sunlight.
- May not be the perfect choice for bedrooms, nurseries, or other rooms where complete darkness is desired.
Pros and Cons of Room Darkening Shades
Like light-filtering window treatments, room-darkening shades do have some advantages and disadvantages. Below are their common pros and cons.
Pros
- Block out more light than light-filtering shades for windows.
- Provide better privacy than light filtering shades.
- Can be used in bedrooms, kids’ rooms, or other rooms where some natural light is desired, but not too much.
- Can be less expensive than blackout shades for windows.
Cons
- May not completely block out all light entering your room, especially if the room is well-lit or the sun is shining directly on the windows.
- Are not suitable for rooms where complete darkness is required, such as media rooms or bedrooms for people who are sensitive to light.
Pros and Cons of Blackout Shades
Blackout shares are the right window treatments for creating cozy and comfortable spaces for sleeping and relaxing.
Pros
- Completely block out all light entering your room, thereby providing complete darkness when desired.
- Provide maximum privacy in your room.
- You can use them in any room where complete darkness is desired, such as bedrooms, media rooms, or nurseries.
- Can improve energy efficiency by keeping out sunlight and reducing the need for air conditioning.
Cons
- Can be more expensive than light filtering or room-darkening window shades.
- Do allow any view of the outside when closed, which some homeowners may find undesirable.
- May be too dark for some people when lowered, especially during the day.
- May not be suitable for rooms where some natural light is required, such as your living rooms or kitchens.
Overall, the choice between light filtering, room darkening, and blackout shades for windows will depend on the individual’s needs, taste, and preferences for each room in their home.
Installing Light-Filtering, Room Darkening, and Blackout Shades
Installation of light filtering, room darkening, and blackout shades follow the same procedure. You will need to follow these DIY steps:
- Measure your Window Frame: Start by measuring the width and height (w x h) of your window frame. Make sure to measure both the inside and outside of the frame to ensure accurate sizing.
- Choose your Shade Type: Light filtering shades for windows allow some light to pass through while providing privacy. Room darkening shades block out the most sunlight but still allow some of it to come in, and blackout shades completely block out light rays.
- Buy your Shades: Once you have your measurements and shade type, purchase your window shades from a reputable retailer, like Affordableblinds.com, that offers high-quality products at affordable rates and huge discounts.
- Install the Mounting Brackets: Most shades come with mounting brackets that need to be installed on the top of the window frame. You can follow the instructions provided by the manufacturer for specific installation details.
- Hang the Shade: Once the mounting brackets are installed, attach the shade to the brackets by sliding it into place.
- Test the Shade Operation: Test the shade operation by pulling it up and down to make sure it works correctly.
- Finish Installation: Once you have tested the operation of your shade, finish the installation by securing any cords or cordless lift systems and adjusting the shade to the desired height.
By following these steps, you can properly fix your light-filtering, room-darkening, or blackout shades for maximum functionality and curb appeal.
Maintaining Light-filtering, Room-darkening, & Blackout Shades for Maximum Benefit
Installing and maintaining light-filtering, room-darkening, and blackout shades for maximum benefit can be a daunting task. But with the right tools, it’s easy to create an environment with desired feel and functionality.
To make sure this dreamy setup of window treatments is yours for many years to come:
- Check the manufacturer’s instructions when installing your light-filtering, room-darkening, and blackout shade system – they may have specific tips to help you achieve optimal performance.
- Make sure the mounting brackets, tracks, or other supports are firmly secured so there won’t be any shifting over time.
- Regularly inspect your light filtering, room-darkening, and blackout shades for signs of wear or damage, such as tears or fraying fabric.
This way you’ll know if repairs need to be made – before something worse happens!
Setting up light-filtering, room-darkening, and blackout shades takes some effort upfront, but it provides long-lasting rewards like improved mood and energy levels for a better environment and quality sleep. Plus, these innovative products require minimal maintenance once they’re installed properly – just follow the above steps and enjoy a sound and cozy environment.
Safety for Children and Pets
All three types of shades – light-filtering, room-darkening, and blackout – support cordless and motorized lift systems. These lift systems do not have any cords, so they are safe for homes with children and pets.