Custom Window Treatment
In Altamonte Springs, Florida

Introducing Beautiful Solar Shades

Like most parts of Florida, the temperatures in Altamonte Springs can become quite unbearable for half a year, especially during June, July, and August. With the warmest time of the year averaging around 93.2°F (34°C). And, during these high seasons spending time indoors can be pretty unbearable, especially without an AC.

This means that you have to crank up your ac to effectively cool down your home, which translates into high energy bills. What if there’s a way to keep your home cool and still save money? Well, you’re in luck as this is where solar shades come in handy. However, most homeowners often find it difficult to choose between solar shades and other window blinds.

With most homeowners using these two words interchangeably, it can become quite challenging to distinguish between them. Here are several differences Blinds By Design has put together that will help you differentiate between the two.

Privacy

Solar shades and blinds fulfill privacy needs in different ways. Solar shades are made using solid fabric pieces, while blinds have slats you can slightly tilt to adjust the light control. Unlike blinds, solar shade fabrics can also let natural light into the house while still keeping your windows completely covered for privacy.

Cleaning

Another significant difference between the two is their cleaning process. Cleaning solar shades is pretty simple compared to blinds. All you have to do is add a brush to your vacuum and get rid of the dust. For grime and dirt, you can use a soft cloth and mild dish soap. For blinds, you need to wipe them down with a soft cloth and furniture polish.
You can also use warm water and brush attachment to your vacuum to get rid of the dirt. However, blinds do attract serious grime, and it may require the help of a professional cleaner to wipe them down.

Style

Solar shades come in a variety of colors and designs that suit any home’s style. However, the fabric designs come in three popular categories:

• Dark Fabrics
  These are fabrics that provide excellent glare control through absorption of the UV rays. This absorption blocks out 94%-96% of the sun’s rays enabling it to still provide ideal light while still protecting your home from the sun’s glare. Its absorption capabilities help keep your home warm, especially during the winter.
• High Performance
  These are solar shade fabrics designed to outperform light, especially if you desire excellent glare control, heat control, an exterior view, and UV protection.
• Light Fabrics
  These types of solar shade fabrics are a perfect option for heat management, as they reflect heat. They also allow more visible light into the room, unlike the other fabrics. They also block out 80-90% of sunlight, making them an excellent option for areas in your home or office where a brighter ambiance is desired.
  However, blinds come in a standard and classic look; but they can get too dull for most homeowners.

Durability

Solar shades are made using 100% biodegradable material, making them last for at least 20 years. Blinds are made using aluminum, PVC, and wood, making them easy to break, especially when placed in an area with high traffic.

Child Safety

If you’re looking for window blind options that are safe for your child, then solar shades should be your best option. Blinds come with accessible cords that are pretty easy for your child to reach. On the other hand, solar shades have no cords meaning that your kids won’t pull and tag them.
But, if you still aren’t sure about going for solar shades, Blinds By Design is here to help.