Which EcoSmart Shading is right for you?

For nearly 4 decades, Gordon’s Window Decor, has been producing quality window decor for Vermonters and our neighbors. Our EcoSmart Insulating Cellular Shades are bar none when it comes to energy efficiency.

And our EcoSmart Roller/Solar Shades are a great way to cut glare in a home. They afford fantastic see through while blocking the light and heat which makes rooms more comfortable without shutting out the view.

When you’re need of shading for your home or business, it’s super duper easy to feel overwhelmed by the number of options out there! You might find yourself asking questions like,
“How do you choose the right style for your home?”
“Does my home need insulation?” 
“How much privacy does my family need?”
Soooo…we decided to do a deep dive into two of our most popular (made in Vermont) styles of shade: roller shades vs cellular shades.

EcoSmart Insulating Cellular Shades
Known for their AMAZING insulation, EcoSmart Insulating Cellular shades feature an ingenious honeycomb structure that creates air pockets, acting as an awesome barrier between your home and the outside elements. This smart design helps maintain your home’s temperature, reducing energy costs. There’s no other word for what they do…other than MAGIC!

In addition to their energy efficiency, cellular shades block harmful UV rays while softening harsh sunlight into a warm, ambient glow.

EcoSmart Roller/Solar Shades
True to their name, roller shades operate by rolling up or down on a tube. Pretty gosh darn straightforward. With this effortless design, it allows you to easily control light and privacy. They offer a clean, modern aesthetic while preserving/enhancing your views. Roller shades are not only economical and incredibly durable but also effective in reducing glare, making them a practical choice for many spaces.

Energy Efficiency & Insulation Performance
One of the biggest differences between EcoSmart Roller shades and EcoSmart Insulating Cellular shades is in how they perform when it comes to insulation.
EcoSmart Insulating Cellular shades are specifically designed with small air pockets that trap air at the window, creating a thermal barrier.

This structure significantly improves insulation, reaching R-values between 3.5 and 4.7.

Now we’ll be honest here, EcoSmart Roller shades provide less insulation because they consist of a single layer of fabric. While their R-values are lower, they can still contribute to comfort in other ways. Solar and Room-Darkening fabrics offer excellent glare control and UV protection, which helps reduce fading of furniture and flooring over time.

Mounting EcoSmart Roller shades outside the window frame can also help minimize light gaps and slightly improve performance. For homeowners in mild climates, or for rooms where insulation is less of a concern, roller shades may still be a practical and stylish choice.

At the end of the day, if energy efficiency and lowering heating and cooling costs are your top priorities, EcoSmart Insulating Cellular shades are the clear winner.

But if your focus is on design flexibility, light filtering, or a streamlined modern look, roller shades may offer the right balance of function and style.

Deciding Between EcoSmart Roller Shades vs EcoSmart Insulating Cellular Shades
Choosing between roller shades and cellular shades can be a tough decision, as they each offer distinct benefits to your space. Ultimately, the choice comes down to your personal style and practical needs. Roller shades are perfect for those who appreciate simplicity, affordability, and a sleek, modern design. They’re ideal for preserving your view while reducing glare.

But it’s not as clean cut as one or the other! Check out this client’s home. With breathtaking views to West, neighbors to the North and South, this intelligent design creates privacy with our made in Vermont, EcoSmart Top Down/Bottom Up Cellular Shades when needed and preserves the stunning view, reduces the glare with EcoSmart Roller Shades. See more.

How to Choose: Roller Shades vs Cellular Shades
When deciding on roller shades vs. cellular shades, start by thinking about your priorities. Since different households have very different needs, we created the following decision guide to help you figure out which option makes sense:

1. Is energy efficiency a top priority?
Yes → EcoSmart Insulating Cellular shades are designed with Energy efficiency in mind. That’s why Gordon…started Gordon’s Window Decor, 4 decades ago, to help his fellow Vermonters insulate their homes! They’re one of the most energy-efficient window treatments on the market. (and we craft them RIGHT here in Vermont!)
Not really → Roller shades may be do the trick for you, if you value simplicity and a lower upfront cost over insulation.

2. How important is light control?
I want total room-darkening options → Both shades offer room-darkening fabrics, but cellular shades often seal tighter at the edges for less light leakage.
I want filtered natural light → Roller shades excel here, with sheer and solar fabrics that soften sunlight without darkening the room.

Both types of shades are excellent choices for your home or office, and the best decision depends on your specific needs and preferences.

If you’re still undecided, our expert Designers are just a phone call away or click here to schedule your complimentary in-home/office consultation.

“Michele is a pleasure to work with. Had great ideas on how to set up our bedroom shades. Great shades. Room darkening that really works. Your installer was very detail oriented. Pleasant to work with and very knowledgeable about the product. Really pleased with the shades. Looking forward to the new drapes that are in the works.”- Ken. N in Milton, VT

“Barb has been phenomenal. Punctual, knowledgeable, professional yet very friendly and has excellent follow through…We will use Gordon’s again in the future simply due to our interactions with Barb. Thank you!” – Lea C. in Milton