Why Cellular (Honeycomb) Shades offer Greater Protection than Normal Shades?

Posted on by Matt Schwegman

Cellular shades are considered to be an energy efficient option because of their unique “honeycomb” structure. The shades have air pockets instead of the straight fabric design. But how does the honeycomb structure improve efficiency? The structure works by trapping air between the room and window, slowing down heat loss and heat gain. The greater insulation makes them suitable for summers, stopping the heat gain, and winters, stopping the heat loss.

 

Honeycomb Shade Types


Honeycomb shades are available in two styles: Single Cell and Double Cell. The single cell ones have one air pocket layer, while the double cell have two air pockets. Having  twice as many air pockets, the double cell window treatment will provide more protection from the sun.

Fabrics and Opacity


Like other window treatments, honeycomb shades are also available in both light filtering and blackout fabrics, with a range of opacities. If you want to completely blackout the sun in your bedroom, then go for an opaque option. If you want to control the light while allowing sum of it to enter, then you have the semi-opaque option. The shades are also available in sheer style, allowing plenty of light to enter the room. Sellers usually provide the insulation values for their product. The higher the value, the more the insulation your shades will provide.

Besides opacity, you also have colour options. The shades are available in a variety of colours, including, black, beige, white, blue, grey, among others, making them customisation-friendly. Both single cell and double cell are available in many different sizes as well, including 3/8″, 1/2″, and 9/16″.

 

Chord Types


Honeycomb cords come in all the configurations you expect with other treatments. You can choose form chorded, cordless, continuous loop, top-down, and motorized styles. Besides the absence of all the cords hanging with the shades, the cordless system is also a good option if you have children or pets that may play with the chord. With the cordless design, you raise and lower the chords from the bottom rail. As the name suggests, the top-down system allows you to adjust blinds from the top and bottom. One drawback of the honeycomb design is that you can’t lift or drop the blinds at an angle. With the motorised system, you can adjust the blinds with a simple remote control. The chord controls are usually sold with the shades.

If you want to learn more, contact us here, or give us a call 407-350-7707 ! We offer FREE in-home design consultations and estimates.