Roller Shades vs. Solar Shades: What’s the Difference?

Published 2/9/24

Roller shades feature opacity levels and are designed to provide varying degrees of light control and privacy, whereas solar shades are made from specialized materials that are specifically designed to block UV rays and reduce glare. Let’s dive into the details that distinguish these two popular window shades from one another.

The Basics of Roller Shades

How Do Roller Shades Work?

Roller shades operate on a simple mechanism that involves a fabric panel or sheet attached to a roller tube. The roller tube is mounted at the top of the window frame, and the fabric is rolled up or down by pulling on a cord, using a spring mechanism, or through motorized controls. 

Materials Used for Roller Shades

• Fabric: Roller shades can be crafted from various fabrics, offering a wide array of design choices for color, pattern, and texture. Fabrics include polyester, cotton, linen, and blends. Fabric choice affects the opacity of the shade, ranging from sheer to blackout.

• Vinyl: Vinyl roller shades are known for their durability and resistance to moisture, making them suitable for areas like bathrooms and kitchens. 

• Blackout Material: For rooms where complete darkness is desired, blackout roller shades are made with light-blocking materials to eliminate nearly all incoming light.

When to Use Roller Shades

Use roller shades for spaces where versatile light control is needed. They allow you to choose the opacity of the fabric based on the level of privacy and light filtering desired, and it can be adjusted regularly depending on your needs. Their ease of use and minimal maintenance also make them a great choice for high-traffic living areas.

The Benefits of Roller Shades

Light & Privacy Control

Roller shades allow users to adjust them to different positions, from fully open to fully closed, allowing for precise management of light levels. This is especially beneficial in spaces where you want to maximize natural light during the day or create a darker environment for sleeping or watching movies. 

Energy Efficiency

By controlling the amount of sunlight that enters a room, roller shades help regulate unwanted heat gain and can contribute to maintaining a comfortable indoor temperature. This reduces the reliance on heating or cooling systems and lowers energy costs. In colder months, insulating materials can help minimize heat loss through windows, thus improving overall energy efficiency.

Interior Design Options

Homeowners can match or complement existing decor by browsing the extensive fabric, color, and texture options. Whether you prefer neutral tones, vibrant colors, or intricate patterns, roller shades can be tailored to suit your design preferences, enhancing the visual appeal of your living or working spaces. Find a great-looking product on any budget!

The Basics of Solar Shades

How Do Solar Shades Work?

Solar shades, also known as sunscreens, are window coverings made from materials that are specifically engineered to manage sunlight. 

One of the main differences is their ability to reduce glare and block harmful UV rays. To achieve this, solar shades are crafted with a certain degree of openness. Operationally, they function on a roller mechanism, similar to traditional roller shades. 

Materials Used for Solar Shades

Solar shades are made with screen-like materials, characterized by their “openness factor,” which represents the percentage of open space in the fabric weave. 

A higher openness factor allows more light to pass through and provides better outward visibility, while a lower factor offers more privacy and light blockage. These polyester, vinyl, and other high-performance fabrics help filter and block UV rays while maintaining visibility.

When to Use Solar Shades

Solar shades are the best choice for homes located in year-round warm climates. They are popular in living rooms where homeowners want to maintain a view, control glare on TVs and other screens, and protect furniture from sun damage. Solar shades are also commonly used in business offices to reduce glare on computer screens and enhance productivity.

The Benefits of Solar Shades

UV Protection with Solar Shades

UV rays can contribute to the degradation of home electronic devices, unwanted solar heat gain, and even eye and skin damage if you spend time in too much light. The primary function of solar shades is to block a significant portion of harmful UV rays from the sunlight, and in doing so, protect you and your belongings.

Energy Efficiency with Solar Shades

Sun shades help control heat gain by preventing a portion of the sun’s heat from entering a room. This can contribute to a more comfortable indoor environment, particularly in warm climates or during the hot summer months. This results in big energy savings for customers!

Helps Furniture’s Longevity

UV rays can cause fading and damage to furniture and flooring. Over time, exposure can lead to the deterioration of colors and materials, reducing the aesthetic appeal and value of items. Solar shades protect furniture, flooring, and other interior elements from fading or damage.

Similarities between Roller Shades and Solar Shades

Modern Look

Both shades offer a sleek, clean look making them suitable for a contemporary interior design style.

Roller Function

Crafted from a solid sheet of material, each operates on a roller mechanism. They consist of a fabric panel attached to a roller tube, allowing the shades to be easily rolled up or down.

Cassette Valances

Cassettes are an option for both shades. Using an outside mount, they provide a clean and finished look by enclosing the roller mechanism and fabric when the shades are fully raised.

Cordless and Automation Options

Both types of cordless shades also commonly offer motorized or automated options, allowing users to control the shades with remote controls or smart home systems for added convenience.

Differences between Solar Shades and Roller Shades

Level of Light Control & Transparency

Roller shades offer versatile light control, from diffused light to complete darkness, while solar shades have a more limited range of opacities.

Design and Aesthetic

Roller shades offer a broader aesthetic range and can be customized to complement the decor, while solar shades emphasize function over design.

Materials and Budget

Solar shade screen fabrics can be more expensive compared to basic roller shades, especially for large windows, reflecting the advanced materials and functionalities.

Room’s Function

Roller shades can be used in many different spaces, whereas solar panels are favorites for rooms with electronic equipment or areas where UV protection is a priority.

No Matter What You Choose, Norman® Has Your Back

With two stylish and functional options, you really can’t go wrong! Whether solar shades or roller shades are a better fit for your needs, Norman® has a collection of superior cordless lift products for you to choose from. 

For example, our Soluna roller shades will be a great aesthetic addition to your space and it will also protect your furniture from UV rays. Contact a team member to learn more about design ideas and customization options today!

FAQS 

What’s the key difference between roller shades and solar shades? 

The key difference between them is roller shades primarily function to provide light control while solar shades protect from UV rays and glare.

What’s more expensive, roller or solar shades?  

Solar shades are typically less expensive, but it comes down to the material and upgrades you get for each. For example, a motorized solar shade might be more expensive than a basic roller shade.

Are roller shades or solar shades better for privacy at night? 

Roller shades, especially blackout roller shades, are better for privacy at night.