Cellular shades, also known as honeycomb shades, are an easy and relatively affordable way to lower your heating and cooling costs. This is good for you and the planet. More and more people are doing what they can by purchasing more energy efficient cars, replacing incandescent light bulbs with long-lasting florescent bulbs, adding solar panels and much more.
With the cost of energy so high these days, you may want to look into cellular shades. These shades, also called honeycomb shades have internal honeycomb-like cells that trap air. These cells are what make cell shades so energy efficient and, therefore, earth friendly.
These shades come in three levels of insulation: single, double and triple cell. Obviously the triple cell variety offers the greatest level of insulation and cost the most. But, the cost will be offset in the long run by the insulation benefits. This is true of any of the cell shade varieties. Consider them a long term investment.
Cell shades are also made for just about any window type, including vertical blinds, skylight shades and even for arched windows. So, if you wanted to, you could outfit your entire house. And, though energy efficient, cellular shades look great and are highly functional. Most come with advanced options like motorization, top down/bottom up and continuous cord so you don’t have to give up any of the cool conveniences available in window treatments these days. They also come in a large spectrum of colors to match just about any décor.
There are also available models that offer substantial room darkening, sometimes called blackout cellular blinds. These are perfect for bedrooms, home theatres, really any room that you want to make dark.
There are other insulated window treatment choices, though they aren’t as energy efficient as cell shades. There are plantation shutters, especially the vinyl or composite variety. Pleated shades also offer some insulation but, again, not as much as honeycomb shades. If cell shades just aren’t your bag, or if you don’t want honeycomb shades in every room, you can improve the insulation properties of almost any blind, shade or drape by adding a lining. This is an option and will cost you extra. Again though, I would stress that a little extra expense now will save you money in the long run.
