When it comes to window treatments, most are seeking a combination of functionality, style, and energy efficiency. Enter: the top-down/bottom-up shade, a design that offers incredible flexibility in light control and privacy– while remaining a practical choice, of course.
So, how do these shades work? Let’s get into the mechanics of top-down/bottom-up cellular shades, as well as the benefits of purchasing them.
What are Top-Down/Bottom-Up Shades?
When you get down to it, top-down/bottom-up shades are a style of cellular shade that allows you to adjust your shades from both the top and the bottom. This means you can lower the top portion to let in natural light while maintaining privacy at the bottom, raise the bottom for a more traditional look, or even do both simultaneously.
This ability to raise and lower from both the top and bottom make for ultimate customization, giving you the freedom to tailor your window treatments to your exact mood, activity, or the time of day. Instead of just opening and closing your shades during the day or at night, top-down/bottom-up shades provide a range of configurations.
The Mechanics Behind the Magic
What allows top-down/bottom-up shades to offer such versatility? Exceptional mechanics. We dive in deeper below.
Dual Cords
The secret behind these shades is the dual cord system. One cord controls the top of the shade and the other controls the bottom. This dual system allows for the independent movement of each section,
What About Cordless?
The same principle applies to our top-down/bottom-up cordless shades, but with an elegant twist. Instead of independent cords, the rails that hold the top and bottom of the fabric are each equipped with clear acrylic handles, allowing them to be moved independently to the desired position.
Rails and Fabric
Top-down/bottom-up shades have a fixed top rail, a moveable, low-profile middle rail attached to the top of the fabric, and an identical bottom rail attached to the bottom of the fabric. When you pull the cord to lower the middle rail, the fabric unfolds from the top. Similarly, when you lift the bottom rail, the fabric rises from the bottom.
Locking Mechanism
The shades’ locking mechanism ensures that the rails stay in place once adjusted, providing stability and maintaining the desired level of light and privacy.