Roman Shades vs. Roller Shades

Both are perfect for beautifully shading you and your home from harsh UV rays from the sun, without ruining your view. 

What Are Roman Shades

Roman shades are the simple, yet elegant approach to window treatments. They’re streamlined and a classic staple in décor. Roman shades are fabric window coverings that can be raised or lowered with the help of a cord system and rings sewn on the back of the fabric. When raised, the fabric stacks evenly in horizontal folds. 

A basic Roman shade simply results in evenly-sized horizontal folds falling down the window. Roman shades are usually constructed with a series of horizontal bars to create the gentle folds, with eyelets and cords on the wrong side to draw the shade up. In other words, they fold up and cascade down, instead of rolling. 

The origin of the shades goes back to their name: Rome. Archeologists found evidence that shades of similar design were used in the famous Romas Coliseum to block light for spectators and stage the monument for crowds. 

The Romas were actually famous for their technology, which included fabric coverings in many public places and homes. Although the modern design is very different from the past, the thought behind it is the same — their design to protect people from the sun and add privacy and security into a home. 

Two Main Styles of Roman Shades

There are two main styles of Roman shades: flat Roman shades and soft fold Roman shades. 

Flat roman shades are made of a continuous piece of fabric and hang flat against the window. They are made of horizontal fabric panels backed with sturdy bars to strengthen the shade. 

This style is more rigid and offers a structured look. It is perfect if you want a patterned design. Flat roman shades give a clean and tailored look and can give a valence-like appearance with curved edges. Flat roman shades also have extra fabric to add some room darkening to the list of benefits. 

Soft Fold Roman Shades

Soft fold roman shades cascade in a rippling effect all the way down the window. This style retains the loose folds in both the raised and lowered position and adds a soft elegance and informal vibe to any room.

Since these Romans are constructed with permanent folds and retain the folds when open, they are the more common or popular option. 

What Are Roller Shades

At its most basic definition, roller shades are a solid sheet of materials that covers the window and rolls up or down. They can be made of many different materials: vinyl roller shades being one of the most popular. They normally function with a drawstring, but can be automated to raise or lower at the touch of a button. 

Roller Shades are simple, budget-friendly and sleek. They match nearly every interior design and aesthetic, no matter the materials. They are solid and cannot be seen through, offering a high level of privacy and protection from the sun. 

Rollers are completely smooth, with no pleats, and have a low-profile appearance. They allow the homeowner to choose light control, therefore allowing as much or as little natural light into the room as they desire. 

Roller shades are available in vibrant colors as well. 

Find Roman or Roller Shades

If you’re in the market for new window treatments, Budget Blinds Tempe can help you select fabrics and styles that will completely satisfy everyone’s needs while providing beautiful and easy-care designs.

Roman shades from Budget Blinds of Tempe offer an inspiring selection of beautiful fabrics and various levels of transparency: from chic sheer to opaque. Their premium, designer-inspired fabrics cascade beautifully to create rooms with an inviting ambiance. A choice of lift systems and a top-down/bottom-up option provide even greater versatility and functionality on your Roman shades.

When it comes to roller shades, no one is better equipped with high-quality options than Budget Blinds Tempe. Their roller shades are available in a wide range of fabrics, including grass-like weaves. Plus, with roller shades,  your furnishings receive the UV protection you need without sacrificing your view to the outside.

Call to your local Budget Blinds® Style Consultant will bring samples and design ideas right into your home so you can shop where your windows are. Call to schedule a FREE, in-home consultation or find the Style Consultant nearest you.