Light VS Dark: Should You Filter Light or Block Light?

At Seeview Blinds & Shutters, we spend a lot of time thinking about how windows affect our clients’ lives. We often hear the question: “Should I filter light or block light?” That’s a great question, but it doesn’t always have a simple answer.

Should I Filter Light or Block Light?

We are going to focus on this great debate by defining the terms: Light filtering shades and room darkening shades.

Light Filtering

Shades that filter light create a warm atmosphere without harsh glare. Soft, natural light fills the space, creating an energized, productive tone. These window shades are often recommended in living rooms, dining rooms, kitchens, home offices and gyms.

Room Darkening

When you want a cozy, darkened environment, room darkening shades would be our recommendation. They block most of the light, creating an ideal space for sleeping, relaxing in peace and quiet, or watching a movie in the middle of the day. We often recommend room darkening shades for bedrooms, but they’re great for media spaces, or any room with windows that face intense sunlight.

What If You Need Both?

Some of today’s best innovations in window coverings offer a wider range of light control than we’ve ever seen before.

Dual Shades

If you can’t decide whether you need to filter light or block light, consider dual shades. These window coverings combine two different shades on the same headrail, operating independently of each other, so you can always enjoy the right light control for every circumstance.

dual roller shades on living room windows

One Shade with Two Settings

If you like the idea of dual shades, you might want to explore additional options. We can guide you to shade systems that feature two separate light control options within one shade. These shades simply adjust from one position to the next to change the atmosphere, based on whether you want to filter light or block light.

dual shade light control in one shade system with zebra shades

Layering Window Treatments

This design method offers both function and style. A light filtering shade is placed on the window, inviting natural light, while reducing the glare and showing off the view. When you want to block light at that same window, you simply adjust the draperies to the closed position. Not only do you get light control, but you can increase privacy and energy savings.

layered window treatments to filter light or block light

Custom Light Control for Your Home

It’s your home, and the individual rooms should reflect your personal choices. At Seeview Blinds & Shutters, we believe in customizing window shades to meet the lifestyle, function and design needs of each room. Our window covering specialists will work one-on-one with you to understand the way you use your home and guide you to the right window coverings, so you can enjoy the perfect atmosphere every time. Get in touch with us for a free consultation.