Pleated Shades

Pleated shades are window blinds made up of numerous projecting ridges which are connected to form a solid whole. They are distinct from ordinary window shades in their wavy texture, and they differ from slatted, or Venetian blinds, in that there are no gaps between the individual ridges to allow the entrance of light.

Pleated shades are commonly made translucent in order to let light gently diffuse through the solid material. Stylish and modern, pleated shades can lend a tasteful accent to any room in the home.

Features of Pleated Shades

The individual pleats on such shades are commonly around an inch long and retract neatly upwards at the pull of a cord. In many styles of window shades, pleats can also fold downwards from the top, which allows for the introduction of direct light into the room while still allowing the homeowner a considerable degree of privacy.

Such top-down shades are usually multidirectional, allowing the pleats to also be raised from the bottom and thus to meet somewhere in the middle if desired. Cords are designed for smooth retraction and can be attached in a circular loop to keep them at a constant height regardless of the position of the pleats.

Pleated Shade Fabrics

Pleated shades can be constructed of a variety of multicolored fabrics, which can serve both aesthetic and functional purposes. Metallic fabrics, coated lightly with aluminum, serve to reflect incoming solar rays, reducing harmful radiation such as ultraviolet and keeping the home cooler in the summer, which in turn can lead to less energy expenditure. Flame retardant fabrics can be very desirable in commercial settings.

Most retailers of pleated shades allow for the purchase of shades with varying levels of light infiltration, ranging from sheer or semi-transparent fabrics, which lightly dilute the exterior view, to opaque fabrics which essentially obstruct all incoming light. Semi-sheer and semi-opaque styles are available for intermediate levels of light blockage.

All shade fabrics are usually fairly resistant to the buildup of dust and grime and are easily cleaned with light use of a feather duster, sponge, or hand vacuum. In addition, their vertical movement allows them to shake off most dust when operated.

Pleated Shades in the Home

With their smart, minimalist lines and sharp colors, pleated shades provide a striking look for any home decorated in a contemporary style. They are particularly suitable décor for large living rooms, bathrooms (where the top-down feature for privacy will see its best use) and studies or offices, all of which will benefit from the varying levels of illumination which such shades can provide.

By Matthew Ingalls