Standard vs. Reverse Roller Shades

The team at EcoSmart loves roller shades for their simple, effective design that can be customized to fit so many different situations. 

One of those options for customization is the way in which the shade rolls when it’s pulled down– referred to as roll direction. Today, we’ll be discussing the differences between the two options you can choose from: standard roll direction and reverse roll direction. Let’s dive in. 

Standard Roll Direction

When you opt for standard roll, the fabric of the shade drops behind the shade’s roller on the window side, keeping the shade closer to the window pane. This option is popular for its neat appearance and the ability to reduce light gaps between the shade and the window frame. 

Plus, it’s a great way to achieve a sleek, integrated look, especially when you want to minimize the hardware’s visibility and maximize your window’s natural light.

Reverse Roll Direction

Reverse roll, on the other hand, means that the fabric drops in front of the shade’s roller. This choice is often favored for its aesthetic flexibility, allowing the fabric’s texture or pattern to stand out more prominently in the room. It’s also the go-to option when dealing with windows that have obstructions like handles or cranks, as it prevents the fabric from getting caught or obstructed. 

Reverse roll direction can contribute to a more pronounced, decorative window treatment that complements your interior design.

Choosing the Right Option

Deciding between standard and reverse roll comes down to a few key considerations: style, functionality, and your space. To make the best choice, here are some factors to consider:

• Style: Consider the visual impact you want your roller shades to have. If you prefer a cleaner, more streamlined look, standard roll might be the way to go. For those who want their shades to make more of a statement or to highlight a particular pattern or material, reverse roll direction can help accentuate the shade’s presence in the room.

• Functionality: Evaluate obstructions around your windows that could affect your shade’s operation, such as handles, cranks, or deep window sills. Reverse roll might be necessary if such objects would interfere with the standard roll.

• Light Control: Standard rolls tend to be closer to the window, potentially offering better light control and leading to increased privacy. This is because the tighter fit can minimize gaps through which light can enter. Before making the choice between standard and reverse roll direction, consider how important these factors are to you and your space.

• Window Depth: The depth of your window frames can also play a role in your decision. Shallow window frames may not accommodate a standard roll without the fabric touching the glass. In this case, a reverse roll might be a better fit.

We hope that our deep dive helped clarify the difference between standard and reverse roll directions– one of the many ways customers are able to customize their roller shades on our site. With any additional questions about roller shades, be sure to get in touch with one of our team’s shade gurus.