Roller Shades are one of the most commonly selected window treatments in both residential and commercial applications because of their simple and functional operation. The materials available can create a natural organic ambience, a modern atmosphere, or an elegant environment when combined with other treatments. In addition to providing a cosmetic design element, Roller Shade materials can reduce solar heat gain, assist in daylighting, and provide privacy or blackout features. Some advanced materials even have low emissivity (LowE) properties that improve thermal performance. Roller Shades can also be installed to the exterior side of windows and doors where their solar performance is amplified by collecting solar heat before it passes through the glazing.
Roller Shades can be operated manually or motorized, and hidden easily within ceiling pockets beneath closure plates. WPM offers architects and designers full-service design and specification support, where we recommend the product and materials based on our client’s design objectives. Additionally, we provide all the dimensional information needed to plan for the product introduction into the building envelope.
Services Specific to Roller Shades:
- Research the project and recommend the appropriate manufacturer’s solution
- Meet with the design team to select the appropriate shade material
- Meet with the design team to select the appropriate operating system, including motors
- Make integration recommendations when third party controls are being considered
- Provide samples for the design team to show their client
- Provide cost estimates to complete the installation
- Write detailed Division 12 specifications based on the final selection
- Provide dimensional information to build shades into the building envelope
- Work directly with other subcontractors to assist them in preparing for the shades
| Control Options | Roller Shades can be controlled by a chain & clutch system, tension system with no chain and are often motorized. |
| Specialty Applications | Roller Shades can be tension mounted to operate horizontally at skylights and installed within channels or cable guided for outdoor windy conditions. They can also be designed within a channel system to provide black-out conditions for theater rooms and bedrooms. |
| Designer Features | Roller Shades come in a variety of textures and colors and the different materials provide many levels of opacity and solar control Designer valances and cassettes are available and Roller Shades can be installed beneath drapery and other soft treatments. |
| Motorized Operation | Roller Shades are often motorized and operated via remote control or integrated into building automation systems. |
| Energy Consumption & Comfort | There are many architectural materials that have been tested and confirmed to produce excellent solar reflecting properties as well as thermal control. |
| Light Control | There are many architectural materials that have been tested and confirmed to produce excellent solar reflecting properties as well as thermal control. |
