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Comparing Roller Shades vs Roman Shades

Hunter Douglas Roller shades and Roman shades can be similar in appearance, but they have several significant differences. Roller shades have a clean and minimalistic design. They roll up and down for your preferred light control and privacy and pair well with other window treatments like drapes. Compared to Roman shades, which provide a classic yet modern aesthetic, you can use a cord system to move the shades up and down.

 Three friends sitting in a living room with Hunter Douglas Sonnette® Roller Shades on the windows at AAA Blind & Shade Factory near Virginia Beach, VA

If you’re unsure which shade is the best choice for your home, the AAA Blind & Shade Factory team can help.

Roman Shades vs Roller Shades: What to Consider

Here are a few characteristics to consider when choosing between Hunter Douglas Roman shades versus roller shades:

Aesthetic

Looks may not be everything, but they certainly matter when choosing shades for your home. Roller shades have a low profile and a sleek look that looks great in any décor but is especially appealing in industrial and minimalist homes. Roman shades offer a more classic, elegant appearance with fabric folds and look great in contemporary, traditional, and eclectic décor styles.

Usability

Both types of shades feature straightforward operation, but some styles of Roman shades may require dressing, like valances and cornices, to maintain their appearance when raised or lowered. Roller shades roll up into a headrail; a reverse roll to conceal the hardware is optional. Most Roman shades stack, but Vignette® Roman Shades are available in a rolling style.

Light Control and Privacy

The construction of both shades provides complete coverage for windows, so the amount of light control and privacy you have depends on the fabric opacity you choose. Room-darkening material offers more privacy and light control than sheer, and shades with an outside mount eliminate the side gaps that allow unwanted light to enter.

You can add the Duolite® feature to many roller and Roman shades to enjoy an opaque liner and a sheer shade on a single headrail or a two-on-one headrail design with any two fabrics.

Maintenance and Durability

The maintenance of your shades can vary with the textile you choose. Vinyl is moisture-resistant and cleans easily with a dry or damp cloth, while sheer materials require more delicacy when cleaning. You can use your vacuum on a low suction setting or spot-clean with warm water and mild soap for Roman shades or roller shades made with fabric.

Roller Shades vs Roman Shades: Which is Right for You?

The ultimate answer depends on your preference and needs, but roller shades tend to be more practical in spaces like kitchens and bathrooms, while Roman shades are a sophisticated choice for bedrooms and living rooms. It’s important to remember that each shade has several styles to choose from, so you can effortlessly dress windows in any area of your home.

Sonnette® Roller Shades combine the easy use of a roller shade, and the insulation and texture of a cellular shade, and Provenance® Woven Wood Shades provide the appeal of Roman shades with an organic vibe from natural materials.

Shop Roller Shades and Roman Shades Near Virginia Beach, VA

Which shades win a spot in your home? Here at AAA Blind & Shade Factory, we have a knowledgeable team that’s ready to assist you in designing stunning roller shades and Roman shades for every window in your space. We’re family-owned and recognize the value of premium products and exceptional service. We offer motorized window coverings, including PowerView® Automation and SoftTouch® Motorization, and professional window covering measuring and installations.

Call us today at (757) 481-5805 or request a consultation online. AAA Blind & Shade Factory is happy to serve the Virginia Beach community, including Norfolk, Portsmouth, and Chesapeake, Virginia.