Cellular shades are a bit costlier option and are difficult to clean, but they offer the best possible insulation, more privacy, and better noise cancellation. On the other hand, pleated shades are more affordable, easier to clean, and come in a huge variety of fabrics, but they are less insulating.
A Top Down Bottom Up Cordless Cellular Shade will cost you $98.86 (£77.20) for a 48” (4 ft) W x 48” (4 ft) H window, while you can buy an Essential Cordless Pleated Shade for as low as $77.21 (£60.29) for the same sized window, saving you at least $21.65 per product! If you buy 10 pieces, the savings will be $216.5! However, that extra amount is worth it, as cellular shades will save you $100’s per month on your home’s energy bills. The double cell design of honeycomb blinds offers even better insulation.
There are many factors to consider when choosing window treatments for your home. Two of the most popular options on the market are cellular shades and pleated shades. But which one is right for your home, cellular or pleated? To help you in the decision-making process, here’s a comparison and contrast of pleated shades and cellular shades with pros and cons of each.
Similarities between Cellular and Pleated Shades
- They are just plain easy window treatments.
- Both honeycomb and pleated shades are popular modern choices for decorative appeal and energy efficiency.
- Each comes with child-safe cordless, top down bottom up, and motorization options.
- Pleated blinds look the same as cellular shades from the front, but they do not offer the highly insulating honeycomb design.
- Both are available in lots of sizes to fit any window, from very small to extra large.
Differences Between Pleated Shades and Cellular Shades
Pleated shades and honeycomb or cellular shades are two of the most popular types of window treatments on the online market.
Both offer lots of benefits, but they also have some key differences that you should keep in mind when making a decision about your future window treatments.
Pleated Shades – A Single Piece of Fabric
Pleated shades are made from a single piece of fabric that is folded into a series of pleats. This gives them a clean, streamlined look that can complement any decor.
Pleated shades also provide some insulation, helping to keep your home cool in the summer and warm in the winter.
Cellular Shades – A Series of Interconnected Cells
Cellular or honeycomb shades, on the other hand, are made from a series of interconnected cells that trap air inside.
This design makes them one of the most energy-efficient window treatment options available, as they can help to regulate temperature and reduce your energy costs.
Saving on Energy Bills vs Preferring Curb Appeal
When it comes to choosing between pleated shades and cellular shades, it really comes down to your personal preferences and needs.
If you’re looking for a window treatment that will help you save money on your energy bills, cellular shades are the way to go.
But if you prefer the look of your window treatment or need a more budget-friendly option, pleated shades are a great choice.
Whichever type of shade you choose, be sure to measure your windows carefully before making a purchase to ensure a perfect fit and easy, hassle-free installation.
The Pros and Cons of Cellular Shades
Shades are a great way to add functionality and curb appeal to your windows and overall interior décor. Pleated shades are a popular option because they are relatively inexpensive, but cellular shades are another option that you may want to consider.
Here are pros and cons of cellular shades.
Pros
Better Insulation and Energy Efficiency
The design of honeycomb or cellular shades consists of two layers of fabric with pockets of air in between, which makes them very good at insulating your home.
Blocking Out More Light
The cellular shades also do a great job of blocking out light, so they are perfect for bedrooms and other rooms where you want to create a blackout or dark environment. That’s why they are also called room-darkening shades.
Adjustable Light Filtering
The cell structure of cellular shades allows for adjustable light filtering, providing privacy and reducing glare.
Durability
Cellular or honeycomb shades are made of durable materials and are easy to clean, so they are a long-lasting window covering option.
Style Versatility
They are available in a range of colors, fabrics, and opacity levels, making them suitable for a variety of interior décor styles.
Improved Acoustics
The cellular structure of the honeycomb shades can also help reduce outside noise, providing a quieter environment inside your room.
Cons
Expensive
The downside of cellular shades is that they can be more expensive than pleated shades, but the extra cost may be worth it if you are looking for the best possible insulation and light-blocking capabilities.
Difficult to Clean
The cellular structure of honeycomb shades may be a bit difficult to clean.
They’re Not 100% Sound Proofing
While cellular shades do dampen sound from the street better than pleated shades and other window treatments, they do not provide 100% sound proofing.
The Pros and Cons of Pleated Shades
Pleated shades are a popular window treatment option for many reasons. Below are some of the advantages and disadvantages of pleated shades.
Cellular or honeycomb shades are great at insulating your home, ensuring privacy, blocking out light, and providing energy efficiency. But a cellular blind can be more expensive than a pleated shade.
Pros
A Wide Range of Options to Choose From
They are available in a variety of materials, colors, and patterns, making it easy to find an option that suits your style.
More Affordability
Pleated shades are also more affordable than cellular shades, making them a good choice for budget-conscious consumers. Cellular shades typically cost between $46 (£35.96) and $190 (£148.51) for a window measuring 18” (1.5 ft) W x 24” (2 ft) H to 72” (6 ft) W x 84” (7 ft) H. On the other hand, the average price range for pleated shades is $44.87 (£35.04) to $129.64 (£101.23) for a window measuring 18” (1.5 ft) W x 24” (2 ft) H to 72” (6 ft) W x 84” (7 ft) H.
If you need a more affordable option, go with pleated shades. If you need more insulation and privacy, go with cellular shades. Consider your budget and your needs before making a decision.
Light Control
Pleated shades can be raised, lowered, or adjusted to control the amount of light sailing into the room, providing privacy and reducing glare.
Easy Operation
Pleated shades can be easily raised, lowered, and adjusted using a cord or a remote control, making them a convenient-to-use window treatment.
Space-saving Design
When raised, pleated shades fold neatly at the top of the window frame, taking up minimal space. This makes them a good option for small rooms or spaces with limited window clearance.
Cons
Less Insulation
Pleated shades don’t offer as much insulation as cellular shades, so they may not be the best choice for homes in colder climates.
Collecting Dust and Pollen
Pleated shades are also more likely to collect dust and pollen, so they may need to be cleaned more often than other types of window treatments.
Overall, pleated shades are a versatile and affordable option, but they may not be the best choice for everyone.
Which Is Better: Pleated or Cellular Shades?
Pleated shades and cellular shades are both popular window treatment options, but they each have their own advantages and disadvantages. The right choice will depend on your budget, need for functionality, and personal preferences.
If you are looking for a huge variety of fabrics to fit nearly any room or design scheme, choose pleated shades. On the other hand, if you need best possible insulation against heat and cold, go with cellular shades.
Pleated shades are more affordable window treatments than cellular shades, but they provide less insulation. Cellular shades are more expensive, but they’re better at insulating your home.
Both pleated and cellular shades provide excellent light control, but honeycomb shades provide more privacy and noise cancellation.
If you are looking for a budget-friendly option, go with pleated shades, as they are more cost effective.
Finally, the decision between the two window treatment types depends on your budget and the requirements of your room or home.
Where to Buy Cellular or Pleated Shades at Best Prices and Discounts
Where to find the best cellular or pleated shades
If you buy new cellular or pleated shades at Affordableblinds.com, you’ll get:
- Up to 70% discounts
- Free Shipping throughout the contiguous United States at no cost to you
- 110% best price guarantee.
- 100% Worry-Free Fit: We’ll take up part of the cost to get your problem resolved, if you miss-measure your window.
- A Free Lifetime Guarantee
- 100% Satisfaction Guarantee with 5-star customer care
- Free Consultancy (Measuring, Installing, Choosing Right Product)
Summing Up
If you’re looking for a window treatment that will help you save money on your energy bills, cellular shades should be given preference over their pleated counterparts.
On the other hand, if you prefer the look of pleated shades or need a more budget-friendly option, pleated shades are a great choice for your home’s windows.
Nevertheless, after choosing your desired window treatment, be sure to measure your windows carefully before making a purchase to ensure a perfect fit.
FAQs
Are pleated shades still in style?
The answer is yes. Pleated shades are one of the most stylish window treatments ideas, offering a contemporary and sleek look to make your room feel updated. Functionally, they let in just the right amount of light without compromising your privacy. Also, they have an insulating effect to increase the energy efficiency of your home.
Are pleated blinds any good?
Yes! Pleated blinds can help improve energy efficiency in any space, as their honeycomb construction with air-trapping pockets can provide a highly effective insulating effect. Pleated window blinds are one of the most attractive and practical type of blinds available. They are look as good on large windows as small ones.
Need More Help?
Still unsure which is better for your unique settings or needs: cellular or pleated shades? Contact our professionals using 24/7 live chat or give us a ring at (800) 863-6109 for expert advice and a custom solution.