A precise answer to the question “Solar roller shades vs. traditional shades: which is better?” is: “Solar shades are better”. However, based on your unique settings and circumstances, you might need to go for traditional shades. This article covers an in-depth comparison and contrast of solar roller shades with traditional shades, along with the pros and cons of each. Just go through it before making a purchase.
Unsure which window treatment is a better choice for your home, solar roller shades or traditional blinds? Both solar roller shades and traditional shades are popular window coverings that can provide you with curb appeal, privacy, light control, and other benefits. However, they vary in their structure and the scope or efficiency of functionalities they provide. You’ll need to learn about their pros and cons to decide which one is better for your unique settings.
For example, if you want better control of light filtration, UV protection, and various openness factors, solar roller shades will be a better choice. On the other hand, if you are looking for an inexpensive window covering with a low level of insulation and UV protection, traditional shades will be a better option.
Sollar Roller Shades vs. Traditional Shades: Which Is Better for Light Control?
When you cover your window openings with a traditional shade, it will likely block out most of the natural light entering your room when it is closed or lowered. And when it is opened or raised, it will all light, including the sun’s harsh UV radiation. On the other hand, solar roller shades provide you with complete control of light so, you can easily control the flow of natural light into your room.
One special functionality of solar roller shades is that they come with different UV protection levels or openness factors, such as 1%, 3%, 5%, 10%, and 14%. Roller blinds can gently diffuse natural sunlight and provide your room’s interior with a gentle and soft glow. With their UV protection functionality, they help you to protect your skin against cancer. According to the Cancer Institute NSW Government, shade is one of the best means to minimize the risk of skin cancer.
12 Ways Solar Roller Shades Are Better Than Traditional Shades
Solar roller shades for homes, offices, and other structures offer several advantages over traditional shades, making them a better option in many scenarios. Here are 12 reasons why solar roller shades are often preferred over their traditional counterparts.
1. Reduced Heat Gain: Solar blinds are specifically designed to block and reflect solar heat. It will keep your indoor temperature cooler. On the other hand, traditional shades may provide some insulation benefits, but they are not as effective in reducing heat gain from sunlight through the window opening.
2. Glare Control: Solar roller window treatments have a special coating that filters and diffuses sunlight to minimize glare while still allowing natural light to enter your room. Traditional shades, on the other hand, may offer varying degrees of light control, but solar roller shades excel in reducing glare without sacrificing brightness level.
3. Preventing Damage to Furniture: Solar window coverings are effective at blocking out harmful UV rays, which can cause fading and damage to furniture, flooring, and other interior furnishings. On the contrary, traditional shades may not provide the same level of UV protection unless you specially design them with UV-blocking materials.
4. Energy Efficiency: By reducing solar heat gain, solar roller blinds contribute to your energy savings by reducing the need for air conditioning in your home. Their heat-blocking potentials can help you to lower cooling costs and make your indoor environment more energy-efficient compared to traditional blinds.
5. Improved View Preservation: Solar shades allow you to enjoy the outside view while still getting enough privacy during the day. Their unique fabric design ensures visibility while reducing glare. On the other hand, traditional shades, depending on their opacity level, may obstruct the view more significantly when closed.
6. Enhanced Aesthetic Appeal: Solar roller shades have a sleek and modern look that can complement different interior decor styles, including contemporary and minimalist settings. Traditional shades, on the other hand, offer a wider range of fabric choices, patterns, styles, and textures, but solar roller shades provide a more streamlined appearance.
7. Custom Options
Solar roller shades for windows come in various colors, opacity levels, and openness factors, allowing you to customize the level of light control to suit your needs and preferences. Traditional shades, however, may have fewer custom options in terms of opacity levels and light control.
8. Durability: Solar blinds are typically made with durable materials that can withstand prolonged exposure to natural light. They are resistant to fading and cracking and can maintain their functionality and appearance for a long period. Traditional shades, however, may be prone to wear and tear over time, especially if they are exposed to direct light.
9. Easy Maintenance
Solar roller shades are relatively easy to maintain. Regular dusting or vacuuming is usually enough to keep them in good condition. Traditional shades, on the other hand, depending on their material and design, may need more frequent and specialized cleaning steps.
10. Environmental Benefits: Solar shades contribute to a more sustainable living atmosphere by reducing energy consumption and dependence on air conditioning. Their energy-efficient properties harmonize with green building practices and eco-friendly styles.
11. Motorized and Smart Lift Options
Solar roller shades offer motorized or automated lift control options. This feature allows for convenient adjustment of the shades, either through a wall switch or a remote control device. Traditional shades, on the other hand, may not offer the same level of automation and ease of use.
12. Enhanced Comfort: By reducing solar heat gain and glare, solar roller shades create a more comfortable indoor space. They help regulate indoor temperature, improve visual comfort, and promote a pleasant living or working environment.
Summing Up
Considering these benefits, solar roller shades are often a better option than traditional shades when it comes to heat reduction, UV protection, glare control, energy efficiency, aesthetic appeal, custom options, durability, and ease of maintenance.