The age-old question of Roman Shades vs Roller Shades has never been more alive than in 2024. The good news is that both types of window treatments offer so many color, pattern and fabric options that you can easily find the perfect complement to any home decor.

With that said, there are a few things to keep in mind when selecting the right shades for your home. The first factor is ease of use. How easy the shades are to open and close and to adjust on a daily basis. Another factor is the level of privacy and light control you want. Finally, you’ll want to consider the upfront cost and operating costs of your chosen shades.

Upfront Cost

The upfront cost of your new shades will be dependent on the style you select and fabric choice. For example, Pleated Roman Shades, with their luscious folds created from extra fabric, will generally be more expensive than Flat Roman Shades covering the same area. The fabric type will also play a role in the final price of your shades, with natural materials like silk and wool usually being more costly than synthetics such as Sunbrella acrylic.

Operating costs will also vary depending on your preferred control type. For instance, some styles of Roman Blinds Dilemma: Roman Shades vs Roller Shades in 2024 Shades feature a cord or chain drive, while others are completely cordless. If you choose shades with a cord or chain, it’s important to keep in mind that loose or dangling cords can pose a strangulation risk for children and pets. Shades with a cord or chain can also hold moisture, which could lead to dampness and mold issues. Shades that are completely cordless offer a safe and child-friendly solution to this issue.

Some Roman Shades can be hung from your ceiling or wall while others are designed to be rolled up and concealed within a headrail when drawn. If you’re looking for a more traditional look, you may want to consider the latter option.

In terms of energy efficiency, both Roman and Roller shades are available in a variety of energy-saving honeycomb options, including our Solera and Sonnette collections. With these styles, generous inner pockets trap air, helping to reduce your heating and cooling costs.

Installation Ease

Both Roman and Roller shades are relatively simple to install. The exact steps will depend on your mount preference and your chosen shade’s specific installation instructions, but both tend to follow the same basic steps. You’ll need to gather your tools, which may include a stepladder, pencil, tape measure, drill and screwdriver (check your shade’s specific installation instructions for an exact list). Once you’ve assembled all of your tools, mark where the mounting brackets and headrail will go on the wall or inside your window frame.

Both Roman and Roller shades are available as motorized shades, making them even easier to operate and maintain. When away from home, a tap on your smartphone or web-enabled tablet allows you to raise, lower and set a schedule for your shades. When you’re at home, simply use your voice through Amazon Alexa, Siri(r) or your Google Assistant to control your shades.