Why We Love Energy Efficient Custom Cellular Shades for Tennessee Homes
Having lived and worked in the Nashville area for decades, we know first-hand what Tennessee summers are like! When summer hits and the humidity makes it feel like you’re swimming through soup just walking to your mailbox—that’s when our phone starts ringing off the hook.
“My AC runs constantly, but my living room is STILL hot.” Sound familiar?
We’ve spent 30+ years helping Nashville, Franklin, and Brentwood homeowners fight the weather extremes without breaking the bank. The game-changer? Custom cellular shades – also called honeycomb blinds insulate your windows keep your home environment cool in the summer, and toasty in the winter.
Our customers can’t stop raving about them, and honestly, neither can we. These aren’t your grandma’s window treatments. Cellular shades offer that perfect window treatment trifecta: amazing insulation, ultimate light control, and they actually look gorgeous doing it.
What Are Cellular Shades?
Picture a honeycomb. That’s essentially the design of cellular shades—they feature unique honeycomb cells that trap air in pockets, creating a natural barrier. This structure blocks heat loss in winter and keeps that scorching summer heat outside where it belongs, making it possibly the most energy-efficient window covering we’ve ever worked with.
Here’s why we swear by honeycomb shades:
- You can customize light levels: From light-filtering cellular shades to total blackout options
- They fit any window: Standard, oversized, or those weird little quarter-rounds in your bathroom
- No dangerous cords: Options for cordless lift or motorized cellular controls
- They dampen sound: Great if you live on a busy street or have noisy neighbors
How Energy Efficient Are Cellular Shades?
When it comes to window treatments, not all options are created equal. According to studies by the U.S. Department of Energy’s Building Technologies Office, windows can be a significant source of temperature transfer in homes. Their research highlights that cellular shades are particularly effective at insulation compared to other window covering options. Here’s their fact sheet if you want to read more about the study.
Bottom Line: Cellular shades are the most energy efficient option of all window treatments to keep your home comfy cozy throughout the year.
What Are the Advantages and Disadvantages of Honeycomb Blinds?
Advantages:
- You can choose from light-filtering to full blackout options
- They reduce outside noise—perfect if you live on a busy street
- Cordless and motorized cellular options make them kid-safe and easy to use
- They work on virtually any window shape (even those odd circular ones)
- They look clean and modern in any room
Disadvantages of Honeycomb Blinds:
- Cellular shades may not always be the best option for humid areas as cellular shades can absorb moisture. (Choosing the right fabrics can help with this!)
- While cellular shades come in a lot of beautiful fabrics and styles, they don’t offer as many pattern choices as curtains.
- Compared to basic roller shades, honeycomb shades are a bit more expensive.
- Cellular shades can also be tricky to deep-clean yourself (we recommend professional cleaning).
- Unlike traditional blinds, cellular shades do not have tilting slats for precise light adjustment.
Our honest take: While cellular shades are a popular choice and our go-to recommendation for energy-conscious homeowners, they’re not perfect. Consider their moisture sensitivity and cleaning requirements before installing them throughout your home.
Let’s Explore the Pros and Cons of Other Window Treatments Compared to Cellular Shades
Roller Shades vs. Cellular Shades
The Advantages of Roller Shades:
- We love the minimalist, uncluttered look of roller shades
- Usually less expensive upfront
- Simple operation
- Gorgeous in modern spaces
The Disadvantages of Roller Shades:
- Practically zero insulation
- Limited design options
- Can be noisy in wind
Why Honeycomb Wins: Cellular shades still give you all the light control options from sheer to blackout, plus the honeycomb design traps air like a thermos – something flat roller shades just can’t do.
Plantation Shutters vs. Cellular Shades
The Advantages of Plantation Shutters
- We love their timeless traditional Southern style
- They are super durable – can last decades
- Great light adjustment
- Excellent for resale value – realtors and home buyers love them, too!
The Disadvantages of Plantation Shutters
- $$$ Plantation shutters are not the most budget-friendly option
- Not great for tight spaces – you will clearance space to open the shutters to access your windows
- Wooden shutters are heavier and more complicated to install
- Limited color options
Why Honeycomb Wins: Please don’t get us wrong – we LOVE plantation shutters, but when clients are watching their budget, cellular shades give you 80% of the benefits at about half the cost.
Wood or Faux Wood Blinds vs. Cellular Shades
The Advantages of Wood Blinds:
- Their classic style is perfect for Tennessee’s traditional homes
- Adjustable slats for lots of light control flexibility
- Fairly durable, long-lasting, and easy to clean
- Relatively affordable
The Disadvantages of Wood Blind:
- Real wood blinds can warp in humidity (bathroom disaster waiting to happen)
- Blinds can be more dangerous for curious kitties, playful puppies, and kids of all ages than other window treatments
- Dust collectors (so. many. surfaces.)
- Less insulation value
Why Honeycomb Wins: Wood blinds look great but they don’t provide the wide range of light-control options or insulating qualities that cellular shades do.
Roman Shades vs. Cellular Shades
Roman Shade Advantages:
- Gorgeous elegant, soft appearance
- Fantastic fabric options
- Great for formal spaces
- Designer favorite
- More insulation than wooden blinds or roller shades
Roman Shade Disadvantages:
- Limited insulation compared to cellular shades
- Can be bulky when raised
- Typically more expensive that cellular shades
Why Honeycomb Wins: For pure flexibility, insulation value, and energy efficiency, cellular shades outrun Romans every time.
Pleated Shades vs. Cellular Shades
Pleated Shade Advantages:
- Similar folded appearance
- Usually less expensive
- Lightweight
- Good for smaller windows
Pleated Shade Disadvantages:
- Single layer = minimal insulation
- Less durable over time
- Less light-filtering options
Why Honeycomb Wins: While pleated and honeycomb shades look alike at first glance, but don’t be fooled! Pleated shades are just one layer of folded fabric. Cellular shades have multiple layers forming actual air pockets (that’s why they’re called honeycomb shades). The difference in performance is night and day.
Our Take: We’ve installed every type of window covering under the Tennessee sun, and here’s our verdict: for pure performance-to-price ratio, nothing beats cellular window shades.
Whether you need blackout options for that night-shift worker’s bedroom, light-filtering cellular shades for your sun-drenched family room, or motorized options for those impossible-to-reach windows, honeycomb blinds deliver function and style without breaking the bank.
Choosing the Perfect Cellular Shades for Your Tennessee Home
Now that you know why cellular shades are a great option, let’s talk about all the options you have when buying custom cellular shades for your home.
Cell Structure Options
Cellular shades are made with fabric cells that look like a honeycomb when viewed from the side. The insulation properties of honeycomb shades come directly from these air pockets.
- Single Cell: One layer of honeycomb cells—good for moderate insulation needs
- Double Cell: Two connected layers—we always tell clients to opt for double cell shades to maximize the energy efficiency of your home.
If you’re serious about insulation, that additional layer of honeycomb structure in double-cell shades makes a noticeable difference. We’ve installed cellular shades in hundreds of homes, and they’ve become one of the most popular window treatments for energy conservation.
Cell Size Options
 9/16” single cell |  ½” double cell |  ¾” single cell |  1 ¼” single cell |
Source: Graber Blinds
- Small (9/16″): Creates a sleek, contemporary look; we recommend these for smaller windows
- Medium (1/2″): Our most-installed size—balances looks and performance
- Large (3/4″): Provides enhanced insulation; ideal for standard windows
- Extra Large (1 1/4″): Maximum insulation; we use these for large windows or patio doors
Options for Honeycomb Shade Styles
 Standard |  Top Down |  Top Down – Bottom Up |  Side to Side |
Source: Graber Blinds
Unlike traditional blinds or roller shades, cellular honeycomb shades come in various configurations:
- Standard: Traditional bottom-up operation; shade raises from bottom to top
- Top Down: Shade lowers from the top to allow natural light with privacy
- Top Down/Bottom Down: Can be lowered from the top or raised from the bottom; perfect for double hung windows
- Side to Side: Horizontal movement rather than vertical; we recommend vertical cellular shades for sliding doors
Operating System Options for Cellular Shades
 Motorized Lift |  Cordless Lift |  Continuous Loop Lift |
Source: Graber Blinds
Important Safety Update: As of June 1, 2024, all window coverings sold in the US must be cordless or have inaccessible cords. This is to eliminate dangerous hanging cords to protect children from strangulation risks. Here are some FAQs on the new ANSI/WCMA regulations.
Cordless Lift Designs
Cordless options eliminate dangerous cords. Cordless lift options enable your cellular shades to be safe for children and pets, and cordless shades can be easily raised with a button on the bottom rail or gentle pressure.
Continuous Loop Lift with Tension Device
We often recommend continuous loop options for cellular shades with large, hard-to-reach windows. A tension device secures the looped cord to the wall. You can raise or lower your shades by pulling the loop cord. They’re perfect for heavier shades that might be difficult to handle with cordless systems. (Our installation team will properly secure the tension device to meet safety regulations.)
Motorized Shades
We’re seeing more clients choose motorized shades for convenience. give you the ability to enjoy remote-controlled operation for blinds or shades that are hard to reach. Motorized shades connected to your smart home hub allow your cellular shades to be easily raised and closed throughout the day to protect furniture from UV damage and provide privacy when needed.
Tip: Motorized shades are a great modern option, especially for elderly clients or those with mobility challenges.
Motorization Options We Offer:
- Battery-Powered: No electrician needed; batteries typically last 1-2 years
- Hardwired: Direct connection to your electrical system; no battery replacements
- Motorized: Graber offers a premium motorized system with smart home integration and voice control
Light Control Options for Cellular Window Shades
 Sheer |  Semi-Sheer |  Light-Filtering |  Blackout |
Source: Graber Blinds
- Sheer: Maximum light with minimal privacy
- Semi-Sheer: Allows significant light while providing better privacy
- Light-Filtering: Our most popular choice—allows soft, diffused natural light
- Blackout: Nearly eliminates all light; select a full blackout option to eliminate light entirely
We typically recommend light-filtering cellular shades for living areas, while blackout shades work best in bedrooms where darkness improves sleep quality.
Special Window Applications
One reason cellular shades are so popular is their versatility with unusual window shapes. We’ve installed them on:
- Skylights: Great for reducing heat gain and glare through overhead windows
- Arch and Angle Top Windows: Custom-shaped to fit perfectly.
- French Doors: Cellular shades can be mounted directly on your door and fixed with special hardware.
- Sliding Glass Doors: Try extra-wide cellular shades with side-to-side operation.
- Corner Windows: Custom solutions that meet perfectly at corners
One of the Best Window Treatment Hacks: Layering Honeycomb Shades with Draperies
We love combining cellular shades with draperies for clients who want both functionality and style. This layering approach provides flexible solutions that work with diverse architectural styles while maximizing temperature control.
Special Considerations for Homes with Children and Pets
- Safety first: Choose cordless for safety. Remember, as of June 1, 2024, all window coverings must be cordless or have inaccessible cords.
- Durability: Some fabrics resist damage better than others.
- Operation: Motorized options prevent children from reaching or pulling on window coverings.
Cellular Shades FAQ
What’s the difference between cellular blinds and honeycomb blinds?
There is no difference! Cellular shades and honeycomb shades are two names for the same product. They’re called “cellular” because of their cell structure and “honeycomb” because the cells resemble a honeycomb pattern. The honeycomb pockets provide the magic in cellular shades, trapping air between the window and the room reducing heat loss or gain.
How do cellular shades compare to other window treatments?
In our experience, cellular shades insulate better than almost any other window covering. They’re more energy-efficient than traditional blinds or roller shades and offer excellent light control. Honeycomb shades are a great mix of functionality and style.
Are cellular shades available for unusual window shapes?
Absolutely! We can install honeycomb shades in a range of configurations like arches, circles, skylights, sliding doors, and angled windows. They’re one of the most versatile window treatments for challenging windows.
How do I clean cellular honeycomb shades?
Cellular shades are easy to maintain with regular dusting. We recommend professional cleaning for stain removal and deeper cleaning to keep the pleats crisp and fabrics protected.
How much do custom cellular shades cost?
It varies based on size, cell construction, and features. But we can tell you that custom-sized cellular shades provide much better performance than off-the-shelf options from big box stores.
Do cellular shades work well for energy efficiency?
Cellular shades are one of the champions of energy efficient window treatments! The honeycomb cells trap air, creating an insulating barrier between your window and room. For maximum efficiency, we always suggest double-cell shades to our clients.
Will I be able to raise and lower honeycomb shades easily?
Definitely! Cordless options make it simple to raise and lower your honeycomb shades with the push of a button or gentle pressure.
Are cellular shades suitable for every room?
Cellular shades are also an excellent, cost-effective choice for most rooms. For bathrooms, we recommend moisture-resistant fabric options.
Why Cellular Shades Top Our List for Best Window Coverings for Tennessee Homes
Nashville homes are as diverse as our music scene. Add in our cold winters and sticky summers—it’s no wonder why so many of our clients choose custom cellular shade products. They provide:
- Cellular shades are more energy efficient than other window treatments
- Customizable light control from barely-there sheer to complete blackout
- Kid-safe cordless lift options
- Window treatments perfectly suited to Tennessee’s climate extremes
- Styles that complement any interior design approach
Real Client Example: Last year, we worked with a family in Brentwood. Their living room faced the West and it felt like a sauna by 4pm in the summer. We installed double-cell, top-down/bottom-up cellular shades in a soft beige. Now they enjoy a comfortable space year-round and beautiful natural light that doesn’t overheat the room.
Why We Love Cellular Honeycomb Shades:
Whether you live in a historic Germantown bungalow or a brand-new build in The Nations, cellular shades and honeycomb blinds solve real problems while looking great. Honeycomb shades come in a range of light-filtering options, striking that perfect balance between function and beauty.
Ready to Upgrade Your Windows?
If you’re tired of fighting Tennessee’s weather extremes, let’s talk about finding the perfect window covering for your Nashville home before the summer heat hits!
We’ll bring samples to your home, evaluate your space, and help you choose cellular shades tailored to your specific needs. You’ll experience the comfort, style, and efficiency that only custom window treatments can provide.
Whether you live in Franklin, Brentwood, Nashville, Murfreesboro, Smyrna, or Mt. Juliet, we can help you find the perfect solution. Contact us today for a free consultation and let’s plan the perfect window treatments for your space!