Sun Shades by Prestige
Sun Shades have become increasingly popular over the last couple of years.
What they are is a fine mesh just like a window screen but much thicker.
Before the sun shade became so popular, people would put sunscreens to replace
the regular window screens they have. The main problem with that is that
the sunscreens are always visible and darkens the view. To combat this,
most blind companies such as Hunter Douglas Designer Screen Shades and Phifer
ShearWeave have started using the same material but for the inside of the
house where it can roll up and down (out of the way). It provides the
exact same protection as the outside solar screen but is totally controllable
and will not wear out as quickly because of the elements.
Sun shades are first based on the openness factor. The openness factor
determines how much light comes in, how much heat protection, and the amount of
UV protection. They typically go from around
14% (most open) which is less energy efficient to around 1% (least open) which has the most. Most people stick with a 5%
openness or a 10% openness because it combines all features from privacy to
energy protection.
For privacy, you must remember that sun shades do not provide total privacy.
They are not designed for rooms where privacy is a must. Although they
provide view protection during the day time when it is light outside and darker
on the inside, it has the opposite effect at night. You can see in because
the lights are on and it is darker on the outside. Sun shades are meant as
a solution to the heat and UV rays. This is the reason sun shades are so
popular in sun rooms and family areas.
There
are many style and colors to choose from in getting sun shades. Once you
pick the openness factor that best suites you, you can then choose from many
different colors and weaves. Do remember this, for better views when the
shade is down, the darker fabrics absorb more light. The lighter fabrics
reflect more light so you get less of a view. These solar blinds
look great.
The last option that you choose in designing the right sun shade is what
options do you want with it. Do you want it motorized? Do you want a
valance? Continuous cord loop? Roman style? There are many
options you must choose to make the blind work the best for you.
Shades Shutters Blinds provides around 75 colors and options to choose from.
Form our superior SilverScreens by Comfortex, the Hunter Douglas Designer Screens which has fabulous color selections, and the
ever popular
Phifer ShearWeave who are the inventors of this product. Very
nice solar shades.
Please note: Fabrics are 1 3/8" narrower than the headrails.
The R-Value is how much energy efficiency your blinds has for
blocking out the heat and cold. For this product the R- Value is Decent
(not very good).