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Through evolution and technological advances, both in the development of new products and mass production capabilities, manufacturing companies have developed many products which make our lives more comfortable and productive. One of these products is the blackout roller shade used worldwide in order to control light and provide privacy. Through time, roller shades have become more complex by providing options once thought unimaginable and also providing a variety of applications through the use of a multitude of fabrics and materials. The basic blackout roller shade uses a multiple-layer vinyl material which prevents light filtering into a specific room. Many new blackout roller shades also use a material which includes a fiberglass layer thus increasing the strength and dimensional stability of the shade regardless of height or width. Top of the line roller shades include a chain/cord operated control system which facilitates the operation and widens the user’s options. These controls allow the operator to raise or lower the shade to a specific point without ever having to touch the material thus keeping the shade material clean of finger prints and significantly reducing wear and tear thus prolonging the useful life of the product. The chain control systems for roller shades have a chain that hangs adjacent to the roller shades which is then use to manipulate the roller shads into the proper position as the user desires it. More than that, the chains that are used to control these systems may be color coordinated with many of the choices that one may select for a blackout roller shade. The plastic chains that are used for these shades are more decorative than their machined appearing cousins, the metal chains. Note, by the way, that plastic chains are usually stronger than the metal chains, often being able to withstand twice the weight and pull force compared to the typical metal chains in roller shades. As an evolutionary benefit, blackout roller shade materials are available in a variety of colors to match any decorative need and create a desired ambience. The new available collections of blackout roller shade fabrics also include many dual-color materials which provide a neutral color to the exterior while providing the desired color to the interior of the room. This very important feature allows the use of these materials whenever neutral exterior colors are mandated by homeowner associations, deed restrictions, etc. Whenever desired by the consumer, valance and fascia systems are available to enhance the decor of a specific setting. These systems hide the roller shade hardware and create a soft, aesthetically pleasing look. Although these valance and fascia systems are not necessary to the operation of the roller shade, they are fast becoming very popular. Additionally, the popularity of “media rooms” in today’s new homes, have increased the overall demand for “complete blackout” roller shades which include, in addition to a fascia, a side and bottom rail system which blocks all light from entering a room where darkness is desired. The appearance of a basic blackout roller shade can be significantly improved by the addition of decorative trims available in many colors and designs, deluxe bottom rails and color coordinated control chains/cords. These optional features will add a softer look and help in the overall appearance and coordination of the room being decorated. In summary, blackout roller shades have evolved into a multiple option window treatment system that provide a specific appearance and simultaneously meet certain desired specifications which solve the unique needs and requirements of the consumer. Another point worth mentioning is the reliability of roller shades from an operational point of view and ease of operation especially by individuals with physical limitations.
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About the Article Author
As an interior designer trained in journalism, Judith Persit specializes in window treatments. Judith writes about roller shades. Learn more about shades at her site.
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