Window Treatments
Solar Shade
Solar shades are specialized roller shades made from mesh fabric that reduces glare and UV rays while maintaining outward visibility. Unlike traditional roller shades that block views, solar shades filter light and heat while preserving the connection to outside—ideal for rooms with views or where daylight is precious.
The openness factor of solar shade fabric determines the balance between visibility and light control. Lower percentages (1-3%) block more light and heat while maintaining some view; higher percentages (10-14%) preserve clearer views with less light reduction. This makes them particularly valuable for offices, sunrooms, and rooms facing direct sun.
Key Characteristics
- ✓Mesh fabric filters UV rays
- ✓Maintains outward visibility
- ✓Reduces glare on screens
- ✓Various openness factors
- ✓Protects furnishings from fading
- ✓Energy efficient
Types & Variations
1-3% openness (maximum filtering)
5% openness (good balance)
10-14% openness (maximum visibility)
Dual shades (solar front, blackout back)
Motorized solar (smart home ready)
Works Well With These Styles
Placement & Usage Tips
Choose openness factor based on sun exposure and view importance. South/west facing windows with harsh sun benefit from lower percentages; north facing or view-critical windows can use higher percentages.
💡 Pro Tip
During the day, you can see out but people cannot see in. At night, this reverses—interior lights make inside visible to outside. Consider blackout shades or curtains for nighttime privacy in bedrooms.