Roller shades are popular window shades that are affordable and an attractive alternative to mini window shades and vertical window shades. Roller shades operate using an idle end that turns and a clutch gear and is usually operated by a hand operated chain or cord.

Roller shades are popular window shades that are affordable and an attractive alternative to mini window shades and vertical window shades. Roller shades operate using an idle end that turns and a clutch gear and is usually operated by a hand operated chain or cord.

There are a lot of fabric options to choose from, and depending on your needs, these fabrics will make a big difference to you. Your selection will depend on how much light you want available. You may want to block light completely, just get privacy and allow some light to filter in, or maybe you want to cut down on heat and UV but want to retain visibility. These are all options.

Blackout fabric is one hundred percent opaque and lets in absolutely no light. This is especially useful for bedrooms and home theaters where you want to complete light control. For blocking out any light gaps you can also add side channels, fascia, and windowsill channels.

Privacy fabric lets light through, but is not see through. This is commonly used in bathrooms and bedrooms. There are a large number of textures, styles, and colors in this type of fabric and is a very popular choice.

Sun shade fabric is transparent but can cut out up to 99% of ultraviolet light. This way you can enjoy a beautiful outdoor view, and keep your home cool at the same time. This fabric also helps save furniture from being damage from the sun.

Some people like to have the option of two different fabrics. In this case, you can have two rollers in one bracket, and usually consists of a blackout shade in the back and a sunscreen shade closest to the window.

Roller shades are worked using one of 3 ways. Rollers can be hand pulled if the shade is a spring roller. Basically, you just pull it down and let go when it's where you want it. To retract it, grab it, give it a short pull and let go. Rollers with geared clutches use bead chains or cords that are on a continuous loop and pulled. Ball stops can be attached to the chain to stop the fabric from flipping. Roller shades also come in motorized varieties.

Motorized roller shades can be battery operated, line voltage, or low voltage and can tie in with existing home automation systems. Battery operated shades are usually controlled with an RF or infrared remote control, though RF wall keypads are also available. A battery is attached to the tubular motor and usually lasts up to five years. Line voltage systems are plugged directly into the electrical current in a home, and can be controlled via wall switches and RF controllers as well. Popular now are low voltage shading systems, which are known for how silent they are and are much more customizable when it comes to home control systems. These are usually controlled with wall switches, but can be addressed as a whole system and control a lot of shades simultaneously with just only one button press.