It can be challenging to know the differences between window treatments, especially ones as similar as roller and solar shades. They have similar makes and features, as they consist of single lengths of fabric that roll into a header. But they do have some important differences. Let’s talk about the similarities and differences between the two to help you decide which is best for your home. At the Blind Guy, we carry top window treatment brands, including Hunter Douglas, Alta, Insolroll, Norman, and Graber, so no matter what you choose, you’re going to find a custom fit for your interiors with these roller and solar shades.

Roller Shades

Roller shades are a simple, low-profile window covering made using a single piece of material. They use a roller function to lift into a header and lower into a consistent fabric shade. These shades are a minimalist and budget-friendly option. Their uncomplicated design means endless possibilities when it comes to choosing fabrics or materials.

Roller shades from Alta provide a streamlined appearance with ample UV protection. The line is available in over 500 luxe fabrics, with many being Greenguard® Certified for low emission levels. You can also choose from three opacities, including screen, decorative, and blackout. Your Alta roller shades can feature automated operation, a cordless system, or a corded system.

Designer Roller Shades from Hunter Douglas fit any aesthetic from minimalist to bold. They look great as a stand-alone treatment or paired with drapery panels for a more classic appearance. With more than 400 fabric choices, you can design the perfect custom shade. For windows where two shades are necessary, roller shades with Duolite® are an excellent solution. The first of its kind technology features a sheer panel and an opaque liner housed on a single roll.

Solar Shades

Solar shades are very similar to roller shades. Solar shades are made using a single piece of material and operate utilizing a roller function. The primary difference between the two types of shades is the type of material used. Roller shades can be made using fabric or vinyl, while solar shades are made using a screen-like material. The goal of a solar shade is to reduce the amount of heat and damaging UV rays that enter your home.

Roller shades are classified by opacity, and solar shades are ranked by openness. The openness factor is the number of UV rays that are blocked. A shade with 14% openness will block 86% of UV rays. Solar shades are available in openness ranging from 1-14%, with a higher number indicating a more transparent shade.

Style and substance are the name of the game with Designer Solar Shades from Hunter Douglas. Your shades will block UV rays and minimize light gaps for enhanced privacy. Hunter Douglas is committed to protecting the environment, and their exclusive Greenscreen Sea-Tex™ fabrics are made from reclaimed plastic found on shorelines.

Insolroll® makes some of the finest patio shades in the industry. Choose a screen shade that works best for your outdoor living area and enjoy peace of mind all year round with these gorgeous shadings perfect for barbequing on the Fourth of July or enjoying on a Sunday afternoon.

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Roller shades tend to be made using vibrant, exciting colors, while solar shades are made using more neutral tones—though we can customize your hades to match your interior style.

You can purchase roller shades made from many types of fabric or vinyl, but solar shades are made using a unique screen-like material with UV protection and performance opacity built right in. Solar shades are engineered to block harmful UV rays, while roller shades are designed to block light.

Have you decided which style shade is right for you?

At The Blind Guy Kalispell, we have over 20 years of industry experience that we put to work for our customers each day. We are a 100% mobile service and bring the showroom to your home or place of business.

Our exceptional customer service and free professional estimates helped us to earn the honor of Best Window Treatment Store in the Flathead Valley. Call us today at (406) 755-7525 to schedule your consultation. We are pleased to serve the greater Flathead area, including Kalispell, Bigfork, Whitefish, Eureka, Ronan, and Polson, MT.