top of page

Cellular Shades vs Faux Wood Blinds

  • dinwachukwu
  • May 23
  • 5 min read

With so many options available for decorating your home windows, it can be challenging to decide which window treatment best suits your needs. Among the top choices are cellular shades and faux wood blinds. Each has its own set of benefits, features, and design aesthetics. In this post, we will provide a detailed comparison to help you choose the right window treatment for your home.


Cellular Shades


Cellular shades, also known as honeycomb shades, possess a unique design that features interconnected cells. This innovative structure offers significant advantages, particularly in energy efficiency.


Cellular shades create an insulating barrier that helps regulate the temperature in your home, keeping it cooler in summer and warmer in winter. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, proper window treatments can reduce energy costs by 25 to 50 percent. For energy-conscious homeowners, cellular shades can be a fantastic option, especially those with Energy Star certification.


Aesthetic-wise, cellular shades come in countless colors, patterns, and levels of opacity. Whether you like sheer fabrics that softly filter light or room-darkening options for bedrooms, there is a cellular shade to fit your style.


Close-up of softly pleated cellular shades in a bright room
Softly pleated cellular shades providing a warm ambiance.

Another advantage is their high level of customization. You can select different sizes, shapes, and mounting styles, making it easy to find the perfect fit for any window in your home. Their sleek design adds elegance and sophistication, whether in bedrooms, living rooms, or kitchens. Cordless options enhance safety for children and pets, making cellular shades a practical choice for families.


Faux Wood Blinds


Faux wood blinds are crafted to imitate the look of natural wood while offering durability and ease of maintenance through synthetic materials. For those who love the classic charm of wood but want a low-maintenance option, faux wood is the way to go.


These blinds perform exceptionally well in humid environments like bathrooms and kitchens, where real wood might warp. Typically made from PVC or composite materials, they provide a robust and affordable alternative to traditional wood blinds.


Faux wood blinds are available in a wide range of colors and finishes. For instance, you might opt for a light oak finish for a fresh, airy look or a dark cherry stain that adds warmth and richness. This variety makes it easy to find a style that perfectly complements your home decor.


Cozy bedroom with a neatly made bed, beige blanket, and pillows. Wooden blinds, macramé wall art, and warm lamp create a calm ambiance.
Wooden blinds let in natural light

Moreover, like cellular shades, faux wood blinds offer excellent light control and privacy. You can easily adjust the slats to manage sunlight, allowing you to create just the right ambiance in your home. Best of all, cleaning is a breeze—just wipe them down with a damp cloth to keep them looking new.


Energy Efficiency: A Key Factor


Energy efficiency is crucial when considering window treatments.


Cellular shades lead the pack when it comes to energy savings. Their air-trapping design acts as an insulating barrier, resulting in lower heating and cooling costs. Homeowners can see a significant decrease in their energy bills over time. Statistics indicate that without window treatments, heat gain and loss can account for up to 30 percent of residential heating and cooling energy use.


Though faux wood blinds do provide some insulation, especially when closed, they do not match the energy efficiency of cellular shades. Therefore, if saving on energy bills is important, cellular shades are likely the better choice.


Aesthetics and Design Options


The look and style of your window treatments matter greatly in home decor.


Cellular shades have a clean and modern appearance that fits well in various settings, from contemporary to traditional. Their provides flexibility to match different decor styles, offering a vast selection of colors and patterns.


On the other hand, faux wood blinds bring a classic touch, making them ideal for creating a cozy ambiance. However, while they mimic the appearance of wood, some may feel they lack the genuine texture and character that authentic wood possesses.


Installation and maintenance for both options are straightforward. Cellular shades may require occasional spot cleaning, while faux wood blinds can be easily wiped down to maintain their appearance.


Cost Comparison: Budget-Friendly Choices


Affordability is often a deciding factor in selecting window treatments.


Generally, faux wood blinds are more budget-friendly than cellular shades due to the synthetic materials used. This can be especially beneficial if you need to cover larger windows or multiple rooms on a budget.


However, cellular shades can lead to long-term savings through reduced energy bills. When comparing costs, it's essential to consider immediate expenses alongside potential future savings. In some cases, the investment in cellular shades might pay off in the long run due to their energy efficiency.


If budget is a key factor but you still want an elegant solution, faux wood blinds offer a beautiful, cost-effective choice that enhances any home decor.


When comparing Cellular Shades and Faux Wood Blinds in Canada, it’s essential to consider both cost and functionality to determine the best fit for your needs. Here’s a detailed comparison:


Price Comparison (CAD)


Product Type

Size (inches)

Price Range (CAD)

Cellular Shades

24” x 36”

$180 – $494


36” x 64”

$59 – $137

Faux Wood Blinds

24” x 36”

$65 – $160


30” x 64”

$60.86


Light Control and Privacy Considerations


Both cellular shades and faux wood blinds shine when it comes to light control.


Cellular shades excel with various opacity levels, allowing you to choose from sheer to blackout options. For instance, sheer shades can create a soft glow in a living room, while blackout shades are perfect for ensuring a restful night's sleep in bedrooms.


Faux wood blinds rely on adjustable slats that tilt to control light entry. While this method provides effective control, cellular shades give you more options to seamlessly manage light, which might be important for rooms with specific lighting needs.


Ultimately, both types of window treatments provide choices for light control and privacy but differ in implementation.


Maintenance and Longevity


Maintenance needs can greatly influence your final decision.


Cellular shades, made from fabric, will require regular dusting and some spot cleaning to keep them in great condition. Luckily, many models feature removable fabrics that can be washed, simplifying upkeep.


Faux wood blinds require minimal maintenance; just a quick wipe with a damp cloth removes dust and grime. Their durable materials are designed to withstand wear, making them a reliable choice for long-term use.


While both options can last for years with proper care, faux wood blinds usually have the advantage in terms of low maintenance.


Feature Comparison - Cellular Shades vs Faux Wood Blinds


Feature

Cellular Shades

Faux Wood Blinds

Insulation

Excellent; energy-efficient honeycomb design

Minimal; less effective for temperature control

Light Control

Available in light-filtering to blackout options

Adjustable slats; not fully blackout

Moisture Resistance

Moderate; some models suitable for humid areas

High; ideal for kitchens and bathrooms

Aesthetic Appeal

Sleek, modern look with clean lines

Classic wood-like appearance

Maintenance

May require gentle cleaning

Easy to clean; durable PVC material

Price Point

Generally higher

More budget-friendly


The Final Choice for Your Home


In the contest between cellular shades and faux wood blinds, both have notable advantages and distinct features.


For those prioritizing energy efficiency and a broad range of customizable options, cellular shades stand out. Their elegant design and versatility make them a fantastic choice for any space.


If you prefer a budget-friendly option that delivers the traditional look of wood with minimal upkeep, faux wood blinds are an excellent solution. They can create a welcoming atmosphere in your home without the hefty price tag.


In the end, the best choice will depend on your specific needs and aesthetics. By considering factors such as energy efficiency, design, cost, privacy, and upkeep, you can confidently select window treatments that elevate your space and enhance your style.


Transforming your window decor is a significant step forward—choose cellular shades or faux wood blinds and enjoy your new look!

Subscribe to get exclusive updates

bottom of page