Updated August 2024
Custom roller shades give you more control over the amount of light and privacy in your home! Window treatments typically fall within one of three light control categories: light filtering, room darkening, and blackout.
Broadly speaking, room darkening shades block up to 95% of incoming light while blackout shades can block out up to 99%. In this post, we’ll will be using them interchangeably.
Are Roller Shades Good for Room Darkening?
Even with room-darkening fabric, roller shades are known to let light in through the gaps between mounting hardware and the top of the shade. To achieve more of a blackout effect, you’ll need to either mount them above your window frame or add a valance.
However, room darkening roller shades can still help set a tranquil mood, especially in the evening. That’s the time you want to reduce your exposure to light because it can throw off your circadian rhythm, or your body’s natural clock. Blackout roller shades can block out unwanted light and increase your privacy, promoting peace of mind and improving your sleep cycle.
How Do I Stop the Light Gaps from the Sides of My Roller Shades?
There are a couple of ways you can reduce the light gaps from the side of your window coverings.
- Opt for an outside mount versus an inside mount.
- Layer curtains over your roller shades to cover up the sides.
- Consider a different window treatment. Our Cordless Blackout Cellular Shades have been rated as the best blackout shades by the New York Times’ Wirecutter, and the No-Drill Cordless Complete Blackout Cellulars block out 100% of outside light.
5 Popular Room Darkening and Blackout Roller Shades
These roller shades are customer favorites at SelectBlinds!
Classic Vinyl Blackout Roller Shades
These pleasing pleather blackout roller shades are available in popular neutrals and solid tones, so they work with a variety of interior styles. The shades are crafted from flame retardant vinyl fiberglass and then laminated with another layer of vinyl for extra strength and durability.
Select Blackout Roller Shades
Keep rooms dark, cool, and comfortable with these durable, blackout roller shades. The fabric is made from flocked acrylic fabric with a layer of 3-pass blackout foam on the back. The backing also provides outside noise reduction, making them perfect for bedrooms.
Architect Blackout Roller
Add depth and dimension to every window in your home with these rollers. Plus, you can coordinate them with the Architect Room Darkening Panel Tracks for a uniform look.
Designer Elements Blackout Roller Shades
Effortlessly transition any room from day to night with these blackout roller shades. Its nature-inspired colors are printed on durable, textured polyester.
Modern Textured Room Darkening Roller Shades
These shades feature a dual layer design, with a fabric-like front layer and a room darkening backing sewn together. You can choose from a variety of front-facing textiles, ranging from plain to oxford weaves.
Shop New Roller Shades Today!
Personalize your house and turn it into your dream home! Remember to order samples to see how the colors will look in your interior. At SelectBlinds, you can order up to 15 free samples per day! If you have any questions, chat with one of our Design Consultants at (888) 257-1840. They’re easy to talk to!
