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Solar Shades

Why Do Some Homes Stay Cool Without Blackout Curtains?

Tired of battling blinding glare on your TV screen or watching your favorite couch fade under harsh sunlight? Frustrated by rooms that turn into ovens by mid-afternoon, forcing your AC to work overtime? Solar shades offer the perfect solution for homeowners who want to protect their interiors, reduce energy costs, and maintain their views—all without living in a darkened cave. Unlike traditional blackout treatments that sacrifice sunlight completely, solar shades filter the harshest rays while preserving natural light, keeping your spaces bright, comfortable, and energy-efficient. Say goodbye to squinting at screens, fading furniture, and skyrocketing cooling bills—your home deserves smarter sun control.

If your home office turns into a sauna every afternoon or glare makes your computer screen unusable, solar shades are the solution. Unlike blackout curtains that darken a room, solar shades filter sunlight while preserving your outdoor view—keeping spaces bright but comfortable.

In this guide, you’ll learn:
✔ What solar shades are & how they work
✔ Do they really block heat? (Yes, and here’s how)
✔ How to measure for a perfect fit
✔ Top brands & price ranges
✔ Cleaning tips (even for black mold!)

What Are Solar Shades?

Solar shades are window coverings made from tightly woven fabric designed to:

  • Reduce glare (perfect for home offices)
  • Block UV rays (protects furniture from fading)
  • Maintain outdoor visibility (unlike blackout shades)

How They Work:

The fabric’s openness percentage (e.g., 1%, 5%, 10%) determines how much light and heat pass through.

Do Solar Shades Block Heat?

Yes! They reflect and absorb solar energy before it enters your home.
How Solar Shades Block Heat:

  1. Reflective Fabric – Bounces sunlight away.
  2. UV Absorption – Prevents heat transfer.
  3. Openness Level – Lower openness = more heat blockage.

Best for: West-facing windows, sunrooms, and offices.

How Do Solar Shades Go Up and Down?

Most operate in three ways:

  1. Manual Lift – Pull cord or bottom rail.
  2. Cordless – Push up/down for smooth operation.
  3. Motorized – Remote, app, or voice-controlled (ideal for hard-to-reach windows).

Bonus: Top-down/bottom-up solar shades exist for flexible light control.

Who Makes the Best Solar Shades?

Brand Why They’re Great Price Range (per window)
Hunter Douglas Premium materials, custom sizing $200 – $600
Bali Blinds Affordable, reliable performance $100 – $300
Levolor Good mid-range option $150 – $400
IKEA Budget-friendly, simple styles $50 – $150

Pro Tip: Look for high UV-blocking ratings (90%+).

What Does 1% Openness Mean in Solar Shades?

Openness = % of visible holes in the fabric.

  • 1% Openness – Blocks 99% of UV rays, best for heat & glare control.
  • 5-10% Openness – More visibility, less heat blockage.

Best pick for offices: 3-5% openness (reduces glare but keeps some view).

Do Solar Shades Provide Privacy?

During the day?

  • Yes (from a distance) – At 1-5% openness, outsiders see only shadows.
  • No (up close) – At night, interior lights make them semi-transparent.

For night privacy: Pair with sheer curtains.

Will a Solar Shade Stop Glare on a Computer?

Yes! A 1-3% openness shade eliminates glare while keeping screens visible.
Bonus: Reduces eye strain in home offices & conference rooms.

How to Measure for Solar Shades

Inside Mount vs. Outside Mount

Inside Mount Outside Mount
Fits inside frame Covers entire frame
Sleek look Better heat/glare blockage

Steps:

  1. Width – Measure top, middle, bottom (use smallest number).
  2. Height – Measure left, right (use longest number).

Pro Tip: Order exact measurements—don’t subtract for gaps!

How Much Are Solar Shades?

Type Price Range (per window)
Basic (Manual) $50 – $200
Mid-Range (Cordless) $150 – $350
Premium (Motorized) $300 – $800+

Savings Tip: Buy during Black Friday or Labor Day sales.

How to Clean Solar Shades (Even Black Mold!)

Regular Maintenance:

  • Dust with a microfiber cloth or vacuum brush attachment.

Stubborn Stains/Mold:

  • Mix 1:1 water + white vinegar.
  • Gently scrub with a soft brush.
  • Rinse with a damp cloth and air dry.

Never use bleach—it weakens the fabric!

Final Verdict: Do Solar Shades Work?

✅ YES if you want:

  • Glare reduction
  • Heat blockage
  • UV protection without losing views

🚫 NO if you need:

  • Total darkness (choose blackout shades)
  • Maximum privacy at night (layer with drapes)

Ready to Block Heat, Not Your View?

Upgrade to solar shades and enjoy natural light without the burn.
✅ Free In-Home Consultation
✅ 5-Star Rated in Southern California
✅ Custom-Measured. Professionally Installed.
📞 Call Now: (909) 681-7003
📍 Serving Inland Empire + Surrounding Areas
💬 Or Book Online at RefreshingWindowCoverings.com