There’s always a robust debate going on when it comes to window coverings. Do you need to filter light or block light in your home? Of course, when it comes down to it, you–and only you–can decide for yourself what the interior of your home needs. Even more than that, you’ll have to go room-by-room, since light filtering is useful for one type of space, while room darkening is valuable for others.
Defining the Terms
We consider light filtering shades the ones that provide the best atmosphere for when you want to be positive and productive. Room darkening shades could best be described as “Leave me alone with my snacks.” Or, some might call it the best atmosphere for sleeping. (Tomato, Tom-AH-to.) Let’s explore which types of window coverings the individual rooms in your home might benefit most from, depending on the atmosphere you’d like to create within each.
What Are Light Filtering Shades?
An accurate description of light filtering shades is in the name: They filter the light, creating a “pleasant” ambiance, well-lit, but not uncomfortable. Typically, these window shades allow natural light to glow through the window. They can be sheer or semi-sheer fabrics, which both provide significant protection against harsh UV rays. Depending on the opacity, some light filtering shades offer a view of the outdoors. The opacity also determines how much privacy you have, from view-through to a guarded view, (only revealing a visible silhouette on a dark evening). Most homeowners enjoy this type of atmosphere in living rooms, kitchens, home offices, home gyms and dining rooms.
What Are Room Darkening Shades?
When you want to block light coming in through your windows, you’ll turn to room darkening shades. These window shades are known for keeping out the majority of light, typically relying on certain opacities of fabric that are capable of blocking light.
What’s the difference between room darkening and blackout? Blackout refers to features and fabrics that completely block light from a room. Room darkening shades keep out most light, but may allow a slight amount of light to enter at the sides with light gaps. Room darkening shades can often deliver the right environment, even during the day, but there is a distinction when it comes to blackout shades which seal out the light. Bedrooms, media spaces and rooms with intense, direct sunlight are all great candidates for room darkening fabrics.
How About Both?
Did you know that you can have both light filtering AND room darkening? It’s true. There’s a few ways to make this a reality in your home. The first is with the dual shades feature. Dual shades allow two shades on one headrail. The light filtering shade can be in place when you want filtered natural light and views of the outdoors. The room darkening shade can be lowered into place during the times when you want a dark, private atmosphere.
Another option for having the best of both light control worlds is by using a shade system that offers two-in-one function. In one position, the shade allows soft, filtered light. In another position, the shade blocks much of the light.
The third choice to explore in achieving a wide range of control is layering. This combines a light filtering shade with drapes. Enjoy soft, filtered light with a sheer window covering, while the drapes rest on each side of the window. When you want a darker atmosphere, block out the light with room darkening curtains.
It’s Custom Light Control.
The window coverings you bring into your home will absolutely dictate the type of atmosphere you enjoy in each and every room. By working with a window covering specialist, you’ll gain helpful information and guidance on your way to filter light or block light. This harnessing or blocking the right light will be customized for your family’s needs. At Skyline Window Coverings, our design experts will chat with you about the function and style you are searching for, showing you examples and products that will help you on this journey. Get in touch with us for your free consultation.
