Question 1

What is the difference between single-cell and double-cell honeycomb shades?

Accepted Answer

The number of cells refers to how many layers of air pockets the shade fabric contains. Single-cell shades have one honeycomb layer (R-value ~3) - solid baseline insulation at a lower price point and the widest fabric selection. Double-cell shades stack two air layers (R-value ~4-5), which noticeably improves thermal performance and is our most common recommendation for Colorado Springs homes. Note that our available double-cell options are more limited than single-cell - we'll walk you through exactly what's in stock at your estimate.

Question 2

What R-value do cellular honeycomb shades have?

Accepted Answer

Cellular honeycomb shade R-values vary by cell construction: single-cell shades provide approximately R-3, and double-cell shades provide approximately R-4 to R-5. For comparison, a standard single-pane window is roughly R-1 and a double-pane low-E window is R-2 to R-3 - so even single-cell cellular shades meaningfully improve the thermal performance of most windows. In Colorado Springs' climate, with cold winters and intense high-altitude sun, double-cell is the sweet spot for most rooms.

Question 3

What is top-down/bottom-up on cellular shades?

Accepted Answer

Top-down/bottom-up (TD/BU) is a lift system that can be applied to single- or double-cell cellular shades. With TD/BU, you can lower the shade from the top to let natural light in at ceiling level while keeping the bottom raised for street-level privacy - or raise it from the bottom while keeping the top down. This makes it possible to have both natural light and privacy at the same time. It is especially popular in Colorado homes with mountain views or beautiful yard sightlines, bedrooms and bathrooms facing the street, and any window where you want daylight without sacrificing privacy.

Question 4

What is the difference between blackout and light-filtering cellular shades?

Accepted Answer

Light-filtering cellular shades are woven to diffuse sunlight into soft, even illumination while blocking UV rays - you get a bright, comfortable room without harsh glare or fading. Room-darkening cellular shades use a tighter weave to block 95-99% of incoming light, significantly reducing brightness while still allowing some ambient glow. Blackout cellular shades use fully opaque fabric that eliminates virtually all light transmission through the material itself (edge light bleed can be further reduced with side channel tracks). For Colorado Springs bedrooms, blackout cellular shades are one of our most requested products - the altitude means sunrise comes in strong, and blackout fabric makes a real difference for sleep quality.

Question 5

How much energy can cellular honeycomb shades save?

Accepted Answer

Cellular honeycomb shades can reduce heating and cooling costs meaningfully by addressing heat loss and solar heat gain at the window - the single largest source of thermal inefficiency in most homes. In cooling season, cellular shades block solar heat before it enters the room, reducing air conditioning load. In heating season, the trapped air pockets slow heat loss through the glass. Double-cell Energy Star®-certified options are available, and some Colorado utility providers offer rebates for qualifying cellular shade installations. The actual savings depend on window size, exposure, cell count, and existing glazing - homes with older single-pane windows or large south/west-facing glass typically see the most significant impact.

Question 6

What warranty do Alta cellular honeycomb shades come with?

Accepted Answer

Alta Cellular Honeycomb Shades are backed by a lifetime warranty against defects in materials and workmanship for as long as the original purchaser owns the product.

Question 7

How do I clean Alta cellular honeycomb shades?

Accepted Answer

For routine dusting, use a feather duster or vacuum with a soft brush attachment on low suction with the shade fully lowered. For spot cleaning, blot (never rub) with a clean cloth dampened with lukewarm water. A drop of mild detergent can be used for stubborn spots; rinse with a clean damp cloth. Do not immerse in water, dry-clean, or machine wash.

Question 8

What warranty do Graber cellular honeycomb shades come with?

Accepted Answer

Graber cellular honeycomb shades are backed by a limited lifetime warranty against defects in materials and workmanship for the life of the product under normal residential use.

Question 9

How do I clean Graber cellular honeycomb shades?

Accepted Answer

Dust Graber cellular shades regularly with a feather duster or vacuum on low suction with a soft brush attachment. For spot cleaning, blot with a clean cloth lightly dampened with lukewarm water. Avoid immersing the shade in water, dry-cleaning, or machine washing, as these will damage the honeycomb cell structure.

Question 10

What warranty do Norman cellular honeycomb shades come with?

Accepted Answer

Norman Portrait™ Honeycomb Shades are backed by a lifetime warranty against defects in materials and workmanship for as long as the original purchaser owns the product.

Question 11

What does the Norman cellular shade warranty cover?

Accepted Answer

The Norman lifetime warranty covers defects in materials and workmanship on the Portrait™ Honeycomb Shade fabric and cell structure for the life of the original purchaser's ownership.

Question 12

How do I clean Norman Portrait honeycomb shades?

Accepted Answer

For routine dusting, use a feather duster or vacuum with a soft brush attachment on low suction with the shade fully lowered. For spot cleaning, blot (never rub) with a clean cloth dampened with lukewarm water. Add a drop of mild detergent for stubborn spots, then rinse with a clean damp cloth.

Question 13

What cleaning methods should I avoid with Norman cellular shades?

Accepted Answer

Do not immerse Norman cellular honeycomb shades in water, dry-clean them, or use abrasive cleaners. Machine washing will damage the cell structure. These shades are fine textiles that require gentle care to extend their lifespan.

Question 14

What is Norman's D-cell construction on cellular shades?

Accepted Answer

Norman's proprietary D-cell structure creates a flatter, wider air pocket than standard round honeycomb cells, trapping more insulating air per inch of shade depth. This results in measurably better thermal performance - blocking solar heat in summer and retaining indoor heat in winter - without adding visual bulk to the window.