Pleated Shades

Pleated Window Blinds

Pleated shades are window shades made from pleated material. When the shade is opened, the material compacts into a small stack. Pleated shades come in fabric of all sorts of stylish colors, textures and patterns. Pleated shades are a popular choice of window treatment for homes but can also be used in motorhomes and vans.

Pleated shades are available in sheer, semi-sheer, semi-opaque and opaque fabrics, depending on whether the homeowner prefers complete privacy in a room or would like sunlight to filter through the shade into the room. Pleated shades can be purchased with liners in back for increased privacy and energy efficiency. Blackout liners are also available. The liners are usually colored white so that shades can be selected in different colors to coordinate with different rooms, but the windows of the home will present a uniform appearance when viewed from the street.

Pleated shades often come with a continuous loop cord system for raising and lowering the shade. Unlike regular cords, which appear shorter or longer depending on the position of the shade, continuous loop cords do not change position, which can improve the appearance of the pleated shades in a room. Pleated shades are also available with top down / bottom up cord systems. With these systems, the owner can open the shade from either the top or the bottom of the window. These are very useful in rooms like bathrooms or bedrooms, where one might desire natural light but also require privacy. Cordless options are also available for additional safety in kids' rooms or for those who prefer the look of pleated shades without cords.

One drawback to pleated shades is that over time the pleats can settle and pleats near the bottom of the shade might become more full. However, if the shade is opened and closed frequently the pleats are less likely to settle and tend to remain crisp.