light filtering vs. room darkening/blackout

One of the first questions to tackle when choosing new window treatments is just how much light you'd like to block out.  Do you need light filtering shades? Room darkening?  Or are you looking for blackout?  What's the difference?  There are some key differences in how window treatments affect light, specifically when it comes to styles and fabric choices. That’s why there’s an advantage to working with the design professionals at LC Window Treatments. We understand these differences so we can help you make the right choice for your home.

Light-filtering, room-darkening and blackout shades come in a variety of different products (i.e cellular shades, roller shades, roman shades, sheer banded shades) but how do you know which one is right for you? Here are the differences between how our products control light. 
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LIGHT FILTERING

​Light-filtering shades transform harsh sunlight into a soft glow and are better for rooms that don't require complete darkness or privacy such as your kitchen or living room.  Light filtering shades brighten the room and reduces the need for artificial lighting. 
 
Light filtering can be further controlled by the window treatment you choose. Cellular shades and sheer banded shades will soften and diffuse. More opaque shades in any style will block more light from entering a room.
 
These materials also offer varying degrees of privacy depending on how open you want the space to feel. Letting natural light into a room doesn’t mean you have to feel exposed to the rest of the world.

​ROOM DARKENING/BLACKOUT

Room darkening is a category between light filtering and blackout. However, it doesn’t completely block the light from a room.  You can use a room darkening window treatment, like Roman shades or cellular shades to reduce the glare on a TV screen or keep bedrooms darkened.  Controlling light with room darkening shades is also a great way to reduce your energy bill, especially during the summer
 
Blackout window treatments are good options for a home cinema, bedrooms or child's room. They’re available in styles like honeycomb and roller shades. However, to stop light from leaking through the gaps on sides of the windows, lightguards  (strips of metal or PVC) need to be installed on the sides of the window frame.  Another option for blackout window treatments is to combine room darkening cellular or roller shades with blackout drapery panels to reduce any light gaps. 
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​shades designed to fit your needs

Whether you need soft light or want to darken your room, there’s a shade that’s right for you. We offer the most innovative styles from a variety of manufacturers and our window treatments are offered in a range of opacities, so you can easily find one that perfectly suits your light control and privacy requirements.
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To learn more about which style is right for your home, schedule a free in-home consultation today by calling us at 628-400-1665. We’ll bring the showroom to you so you can make the best choice for your home.