Roller shades with UV protection, or Solar shades as they can be called, are an effective window treatment to use throughout the home. They work in modern or traditional spaces and are a clean, classic backdrop to other layers like drapes or natural shades.
Solar Shades and Density
Solar shades are defined by their % of density – typically from 1 – 10%. Simply speaking a 1% shade will shield 99% of harmful UV rays while a 10% shade will only shield 90% as the higher the number, the looser the weave.
Your best choice depends on several factors:
1) What direction do your windows face?
A southern aspect would be best suited with a 1 or 3% shade while a northern one with natural shade from trees might be fine with a 10%.
2) How much privacy do you need?
A higher % will allow for more of a view when looking out of the window but this poses true for outsiders looking in! Especially at night with interior lights on, some shapes and movement will be visible even with the denser shades.
3) How light sensitive are you?
The amount of light dimming required is a personal preference as some people prefer natural light to stream on in, while others want to block it completely for sleep, work or just day to day.
4) Lighter or darker colour for your shade?
This depends as white shades will be a little harder to see out but will also be harder to see in. A darker coloured shade has a crisper view but that works through both directions inside and out!
5) Lastly, what’s in your room around your windows?
Expensive art, fine furniture and natural materials can be easily harmed by direct sunlight exposure over a period, so protect your treasures!
A variety of function – and beautiful, soft glow
Roller shades tend to be a well priced choice, yet offer a variety of function. A large, simple shade can finish off any room nicely, create some privacy and filter light while still offering a hint of a view of what’s happening outside.
No matter which density you choose – they filter natural sunlight casting a beautiful, soft glow into any space.
