When you look at them straight on, pleated shades and cellular shades look awfully similar. Both types of shades are made from similar materials, operate in much the same way, and offer the same types of light control and light filtration. It isn’t until you look at them from the side that you notice a slight divergence in appearance.
So what’s the difference? And why would you choose one over the other? Don’t worry, we can help! We’re going to dive into what makes cellular and pleated shades unique and the benefits of both.
Cellular Shades
Cellular shades are often referred to as honeycomb shades. This is because of their pocketed or cellular design. This pocketed design has a function and that is to insulate your home. The cells trap hot or cold air that seeps in through your windows, helping keep the temperature inside of your home more regulated. This can cut down on energy costs! In fact, cellular shades are considered the best energy saving window covering. You can opt for multiple layers of cells, and with each layer, you get even more insulation.
When selecting the right cellular shade for you, you’ll want to consider the number of cells, the material, the shape of the cells, and the pleat size. Besides the pocket construction and material, other design features you can opt for include cordless and bottom-down top-up design. You can also add an additional lining to help with room darkening.
Pros of Cellular Shades:
They offer better insulation than other window coverings.
The small stack height means the shades compress tightly when raised, creating a wonderful view through your window!
They offer great privacy, especially with a blackout option.
They come in a wide range of colors.
There’s an optional upgrade to cordless for child safety.
The pleats retain their shape better over time than pleated shades.
The pocketed design also reduces noise for a more restful sleep.
Cons of Cellular Shades:
The fabrics that cellular shades are made of are harder to clean than wood or faux wood blinds.
They are more expensive than pleated shades.
Rooms Cellular Shades Work Best In:
Bedrooms
Living rooms
Dining rooms
Pleated Shades
Pleated shades, often called pleated blinds, do not have slats. From the front, they look like cellular shades, but from the side, you can see that pleated shades only have a single layer of fabric that creates a zig-zag, so there are no pockets to insulate your home like in cellular shades.
But like cellular shades, you can choose material, color, and other upgrades such as cordless and bottom-down top-up design.
Pros of Pleated Shades:
They are less expensive than cellular shades.
The small stack height means the shades compress tightly when raised, giving you a great view through your window!
They come in a wide range of colors.
They let in more light than cellular shades.
There’s an optional upgrade to cordless for child safety.
You can add additional linings for more privacy or room darkening.
Cons of Pleated Shades:
The single layer of fabric means less privacy and many pleated shades can be quite sheer without an additional lining.
The fabrics that pleated shades are made of are harder to clean than wood or faux wood blinds.
They are not as energy efficient as cellular shades.
Rooms Pleated Shades Work Best In:
Living rooms
Dining rooms
Elevate Your View Today!
Ready to buy your new window coverings? Or do you still need help deciding? Either way, the experts at Elevated Views are ready to help! We believe in helping you find the best options for your style, budget, and needs. Schedule your free in-home consultation and quote and we’ll bring the showroom to you!
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