Cellular Shades
Tired of Watching Your Energy Bills Climb Every Season?
Cellular shades are the most energy-efficient window covering available — and in Northern Idaho, that matters more than most places.
The Problem
Northern Idaho doesn't do moderate weather. January mornings hit single digits. July afternoons push into the 90s. And through all of it, your windows are the weakest link in your home's insulation. Single-pane windows in older Coeur d'Alene homes bleed heat all winter long. Even newer double-pane windows in Post Falls subdivisions let more energy escape than most homeowners realize.
The Solution
Cellular shades — sometimes called honeycomb shades — use a unique structure of air pockets that act as insulation right at the window. The honeycomb cells trap air, creating a barrier between the extreme outdoor temperatures and your living space. Available in single, double, or triple-cell designs, with options from sheer light-filtering to complete blackout.
Mark's Installer Insight
“After two decades of installing these, here's what most companies won't tell you: the cell size matters more than most people think. A 3/4-inch double cell is the sweet spot for most Northern Idaho homes — it gives you substantial insulation without looking bulky. And if you have large windows facing the lake or the mountains, a top-down/bottom-up option lets you keep your view while still insulating the lower portion of the window. I've installed these in everything from 1960s ranch homes in Coeur d'Alene to brand-new builds in Rathdrum, and the difference in comfort is something homeowners notice immediately.”
Key Features
- Honeycomb cell structure traps air for superior insulation
- Available in single, double, and triple cell options
- Light-filtering to full blackout fabric choices
- Top-down/bottom-up operation available
- Cordless and motorized options for child and pet safety
- Extensive color and texture range to match any decor
Ideal For
- Bedrooms where temperature control and light blocking matter
- Older homes with single-pane windows that need extra insulation
- Living rooms with large windows facing extreme sun or cold
- Anyone looking to reduce energy bills year-round
- Homes with kids or pets (cordless options eliminate safety concerns)
Why Cellular Shades in Northern Idaho
In Northern Idaho, cellular shades aren't a luxury — they're practically a necessity. The temperature swings between seasons here are brutal on energy bills. Homeowners in Hayden and Rathdrum with newer construction often assume their windows are efficient enough, but adding cellular shades can make a noticeable difference in both comfort and monthly costs.
Common Questions About Cellular Shades
Are cellular shades really worth the investment for Northern Idaho homes?
Yes — Northern Idaho's extreme temperature swings make cellular shades one of the most practical upgrades you can make. The honeycomb air-pocket cells act as insulation directly at the window, reducing heat loss in single-digit winter mornings and blocking heat gain through 90°F summers. Homeowners consistently notice a real difference in both comfort and monthly energy costs.
What is the difference between single, double, and triple cell shades?
More cells means better insulation. Single-cell is the most affordable entry point. Double-cell is the sweet spot for most Northern Idaho homes — substantial insulation without looking bulky. Triple-cell offers maximum performance for extreme exposures or large unprotected windows. For most homes, a 3/4-inch double cell hits the right balance of value and performance.
What is a top-down/bottom-up cellular shade?
A top-down/bottom-up shade can be opened from the top, the bottom, or both simultaneously. This lets you bring natural light in from the top of the window while maintaining privacy at eye level — especially valuable for large windows with lake or mountain views where you want both light and privacy.
Can cellular shades be motorized?
Yes. All of the cellular shade brands we carry — Alta, Norman, and Lafayette — offer battery-powered motorization with no hardwiring required. You can control them via remote, smartphone app, or voice assistant (Alexa, Google Home, Apple HomeKit). Battery motors typically last 1–2 years per charge.
Ready to See If Cellular Shades Are Right for Your Home?
Start with our free concierge consultation to get personalized recommendations, or call Mark directly to schedule a free in-home visit.