How Roman Shades Work
Roman shades are solid panels of material and traditionally have plastic rings and cords attached to the back. When you pull the cord on the front of the shade, the cord on the back slides through the rings and raises the material, resulting in soft folds at the top of the shade. To lower them, the cord is released and the material unfolds and covers the window.
Hunter Douglas also offers other ways to operate their Roman shades. If you don’t like the different lengths of cord that occur when the shade is raised or lowered, UltraGlide® has a retractable cord and EasyRise® has a continuous loop that both stay the same length, regardless of the shade position. LiteRise® is a completely cordless system. The shade is operated by pushing up or pulling down on the bottom of the shade. And if you want to go really high-tech, Roman shades can also be motorized and operated with a remote and the PowerView® automated window treatment system.
Hunter Douglas Roman Shades Come in a Variety of Materials and Orientations
The most common material for Roman shades is fabric, which by itself offers infinite possibilities. Fabrics are available by the yard and range from sleek silks to casual cotton. Use a pattern to bring some interest to an otherwise bland wall, or choose a neutral solid to blend in. After the fabric is selected, add trims or valances for more interest. Fabric Roman shades can be lined on the back with neutral fabrics to keep your decorative fabric from fading and increase energy efficiency and light control.
Another option for Roman shade material is woven wood. Contrary to their name, these shades are not just made of wood, they can also include reeds and grasses, giving a beautiful natural texture to your room. Because these shades can be fairly translucent, linings are available that operate separately from the shade. Lower just the woven wood shade for filtered light, or lower both for a darker room and more privacy.
Roman shades are not just for standard windows. Vignette® window coverings can also be hung vertically to cover sliding glass doors or extra-wide windows. With the Vertiglide® operating system, they easily side open or closed with no cords or wands. Because they are one solid panel of material, they are more effective at conserving energy and reducing noise than other products often used on sliding glass doors.
Whether they are hung alone or paired with other window treatments, Roman shades are a great choice for your home. Another great choice is using Murray Floor & Window Coverings for all of your custom window treatments in Billings, Montana. Visit us at our showroom on Broadwater Avenue, or call to schedule an in-home appointment with one of our window treatment experts today.
