How light-filtering, room-darkening and blackout fabrics differ in the light they let through, privacy, color and how edge gaps change the result.
Three words describe how much light a fabric lets through: filtering, room-darkening and blackout. They sound simple, and the differences are real. Homeowners in Nashville ask which to choose for each room and what to expect when the shade is closed.
Light-filtering fabrics glow and soften the room. Room-darkening fabrics block most light. Blackout fabrics block nearly all the light that passes through the material. In every case, light can still leak around the edges, which is why mounting and side channels matter. We bring samples so you can see the glow for yourself.
Soft glow and daytime privacy.
Blocks most light.
Blocks nearly all light.
Gaps let in light.
Two shades or drapes.
Night and day differ.
Cellular ShadesCellular shades with honeycomb pockets that trap air, in light-filtering and blackout fabrics, single or double cell, cordless…Explore 
Woven Wood and BambooWoven wood and bamboo shades made of natural reeds, grasses and bamboo that add texture and warmth, lined…Explore 
Sheer and Banded ShadesSheer and banded shades with soft fabric vanes between sheer layers that tilt to filter daylight, giving the…Explore 
Outdoor and Patio ShadesOutdoor and patio shades made of weather-tolerant mesh and fabric for porches, pergolas, decks and screened rooms, cutting…Explore 
Living Room TreatmentsLiving room window treatments that frame the view, soften glare and set the style, from plantation shutters and…Explore 
Nursery and Kids RoomsNursery and kids room window treatments that darken naps, grow with the child and avoid hanging cords, with…Explore 
Sunroom and PorchSunroom and porch window treatments that cut glare and heat, protect furniture and add privacy, using solar shades…Explore 
Light ControlLight control solutions that tame glare, balance bright and dim rooms and let you choose how much daylight…Explore Design your windows, size them or ballpark a budget.
Window Treatment Design StudioPick the room, window style, treatment, color, mount, valance and motor options, set the window size and watch your window update, then send the design to us.Try it 
Window Size and Mount PickerPick the room and what you want from your windows, enter the window size and see an inside or outside mount suggestion, the clearances to check and the treatments that usually fit.Try it 
Window Treatment Budget PlannerPick blinds, shades, shutters, drapery, motorization or a whole-home package, set the number of windows and add allowances like measuring, hardware and motors to see a ballpark planning range. Placeholder values only.Try it They block light through the fabric, and light can still leak around the edges. We reduce this with the right mount.
By day, yes, and at night with lights on people can see shapes.
Yes. Layered or paired shades give both options.
Comparison guideProcess and TimelineThe usual order of a window treatment project, from first visit and measuring to design, ordering, fabrication, installation…Learn more 
Comparison guideWhat Drives CostThe main factors that make one window treatment project cost more or less than another, such as size…Learn more 
Comparison guideBlind Types ComparedHow faux wood, real wood and aluminum blinds differ in weight, moisture tolerance, looks, cleaning and cost drivers.Learn more 
Comparison guideShade Types ComparedHow cellular, roller and Roman shades differ in looks, light control, insulation, privacy and fabric choices.Learn more Call us and describe your windows. We will visit, measure and give you a clear written estimate.
