What Are the Differences Between Solar Screens and Blackout Shades?
Choosing the right window treatment can make a big difference in your home's comfort, privacy, and energy efficiency. Two of the most popular options are solar screens and blackout shades, but they work in very different ways.
The main difference between solar screens and blackout shades is that solar screens reduce heat and glare while still letting in natural light, whereas blackout shades completely block out light and provide maximum privacy. Both options help with insulation and energy savings, but which one is best depends on your needs.
In this blog, we’ll break down the differences between solar screens and blackout shades, their benefits, and when to use each. By the end, you’ll know exactly which one is right for your home.
What Are Solar Screens?
Solar screens are exterior window coverings designed to block heat, reduce glare, and filter out UV rays while still allowing some natural light inside. They are made from a durable, tightly woven mesh that reflects sunlight before it reaches your window, helping to keep indoor spaces cooler without making them completely dark.
Unlike traditional blinds or curtains, solar screens don’t block your view. They reduce the intensity of sunlight without shutting out daylight entirely. This makes them a great choice for homeowners who want to control heat and glare while keeping rooms bright and open.
Benefits of Solar Screens
Solar screens help keep your home cool by blocking up to 90% of the sun’s heat before it enters through your windows. This reduces indoor temperatures and lowers the strain on your air conditioning, which can lead to lower energy bills.
They also cut down glare, making it easier to watch TV, work on a computer, or relax without harsh sunlight in your eyes. Plus, they provide UV protection, preventing your furniture, floors, and décor from fading over time.
Another big benefit is daytime privacy. Solar screens let you see outside, but they make it harder for people to see in—giving you more privacy without needing heavy curtains or blinds.
Best Uses for Solar Screens
Solar screens are perfect for homes in hot climates, where intense sun exposure leads to high cooling costs. They work especially well for single-story homes with large windows, patios, or sunrooms that get a lot of direct sunlight.
They’re also great for reducing glare in living rooms, offices, and other areas where you want to enjoy natural light without the harsh brightness. If you want to keep your home cool while still seeing outside, solar screens are a smart choice.
What Are Blackout Shades?
Blackout shades are interior window coverings made from thick, opaque fabric designed to completely block light. Unlike solar screens, which filter sunlight, blackout shades create total darkness when fully closed.
These shades are great for privacy, noise reduction, and insulation. They work well in bedrooms, media rooms, and any space where you need to block out natural light. Since they are installed inside the window, they also add a clean, modern look to your home.
Benefits of Blackout Shades
Blackout shades are the best choice when you need total darkness. They block 100% of light, making them perfect for bedrooms, nurseries, and home theaters where you want a pitch-black environment.
They also help with temperature control. In the summer, they keep rooms cooler by preventing sunlight from heating up the space. In winter, they provide extra insulation, trapping heat inside and reducing energy loss.
Another major benefit is privacy. Unlike solar screens, which allow some visibility from outside at night, blackout shades provide complete privacy—day or night.
Best Uses for Blackout Shades
Blackout shades are ideal for rooms where complete darkness is needed. They are commonly used in bedrooms to block out streetlights and early morning sun, making them a great choice for light sleepers and night shift workers.
They’re also perfect for home theaters and offices, where reducing glare on screens is important. In hot climates, they help keep rooms cool by blocking sunlight, but they don’t allow natural light in like solar screens do.
If privacy and light control are your top priorities, blackout shades are the way to go.
Solar Screens vs. Blackout Shades: Key Differences
Both solar screens and blackout shades help with heat control, privacy, and energy efficiency, but they serve different purposes. Here’s how they compare:
Heat and Light Control
Solar Screens: Block heat and glare while still letting in natural light.
Blackout Shades: Completely block light, providing full darkness.
Energy Efficiency
Solar Screens: Reduce cooling costs by keeping heat from entering through windows.
Blackout Shades: Help with insulation, keeping rooms warmer in winter and cooler in summer.
Privacy and Visibility
Solar Screens: Provide daytime privacy, but at night, people can see inside if lights are on.
Blackout Shades: Offer full privacy, day and night.
Installation and Maintenance
Solar Screens: Installed outside the window, requiring occasional cleaning with water.
Blackout Shades: Mounted inside, needing regular dusting and occasional deep cleaning.
Which One Is Right for You?
Choosing between solar screens and blackout shades depends on your needs.
Choose Solar Screens If:
You live in a hot climate and want to lower cooling costs.
You want to reduce glare without blocking natural light.
You prefer daytime privacy but still want to see outside.
Choose Blackout Shades If:
You need total darkness for sleeping, a nursery, or a home theater.
You want complete privacy day and night.
You’re looking for extra insulation to keep rooms warmer in winter.
Both options have their advantages, but if you live in Las Vegas or another hot area, solar screens are the best choice for blocking heat and reducing energy bills.
Find the Right Window Treatment for Your Home
If you’re looking to stay cool in a hot climate, reduce glare, and save on energy bills, solar screens are the best choice. Eclipse Solar Screens offers custom-fit screens in brown, gray, black, and stucco to match your home’s style while providing maximum heat protection.
For homeowners who need complete darkness and privacy, blackout shades are a great alternative. They work well in bedrooms, media rooms, and offices, offering total light control and insulation.
Exclusive Discounts Available:
Teachers: Get a 10% discount as a thank-you for your dedication.
Seniors (55 and Older): Enjoy a 10% discount as part of our senior savings program.
Veterans: Receive a 10% discount to honor your service.
Contact Eclipse Solar Screens today for a free consultation and find the best window treatment for your home!