WHY BUY ZEBRA BLINDS & SHEER SHADES
Sheer shades and zebra blinds are some of the most popular window coverings in Canada, combining the functionality of blinds with the soft look and elegance of shades.
Select Blinds Canada features two main types of sheer shades.
ZEBRA BLINDS
Zebra blinds are made with two pieces of fabric, which both have alternating panels/bands: one solid color band followed by one sheer band. When the bands on both pieces of fabric are matched together, you get the look of horizontal blinds when open, including an outside view and natural light filtering into the room. To prevent light from entering and increase privacy, simply rotate the fabric so the solid colour bands fill the entire shade, giving the look of a traditional roller shade. Zebra blinds are a top-selling and affordable sheer shade choice which complements any décor.
SHEER SHADES
Similar to the well-known Hunter Douglas silhouette shades, Select Blinds Canada’s sheer shades are designed with horizontal fabric slats that are suspended between two layers of soft, translucent material. These shades give any room a sophisticated designer look.
These sheer shades also offer the benefits of blinds. Just tilt the horizontal fabric slats to open and close the blinds, while the two layers of sheer fabric stay in place, allowing light to filter in the room while blocking out damaging UV rays.
FEATURES & OPTIONS
Choose between a wide variety of colours, patterns and fabrics on our collection of Zebra Blinds and Sheer Shades.
You can also choose between other options, including:
Light Filtering or Room Darkening: Choose a light-filtering material if you want to let natural light in and fill the room with a soft glow. If you would rather block out a lot of outside light, we have many room darkening fabrics from which to choose – a good solution for bedrooms, nurseries and home theatre rooms.
Cordless Lift Systems & Motorization: Many of our sheer shades also offer cordless lift systems – the safest choice for any home with kids, while also providing a crisp, clean look with no dangling cords. For added convenience, choose one of our motorized/automated lift systems which allows you to lift, lower and tilt the slats with the touch of a button.
Continuous Cord Loop with Chain Guard: This option is ideal for large and extra-high windows and allows you to easily raise and lower your shades. Chain Guard is a transparent shroud that covers the Continuous Cord Loop in compliance with the new Canadian regulations for improved child safety. When in the neutral position at the bottom of the chain, the Chain Guard leaves <22 cms of exposed chain at the top of the shade. To raise or lower the shade, simply raise the Chain Guard shroud and operate the exposed chain at the bottom as you would with a regular Continuous Cord Loop.
ZEBRA BLINDS FAQ
What are zebra blinds, and how do they work?
Zebra blinds feature alternating solid and sheer fabric bands on a rolling sheet of fabric. By adjusting the alignment of these bands, you can control the amount of light entering the room as well as the level of privacy.
When the solid bands overlap on both the front and back of the rolling sheet, natural light filters through the panels of sheer fabric. When the solid bands alternate, the solid bands provide greater light blockage and privacy.
What is the difference between zebra blinds and sheer shades?
Zebra blinds and sheer shades are both elegant window treatments, but they differ in design and functionality.
Zebra blinds consist of a single rolling sheet of fabric with alternating solid and sheer bands. By adjusting the alignment of the bands, you can control light and privacy, offering a modern, streamlined look.
Sheer shades feature soft horizontal fabric vanes suspended between two vertical layers of sheer fabric. These vanes tilt open or closed to control light and privacy, providing a softer, more traditional aesthetic.
While both options allow for light control and a view to the outside, zebra blinds are better suited for a contemporary style, and sheer shades are ideal for creating a soft, diffused light with a more classic appeal.
Are zebra blinds suitable for all rooms?
Yes, zebra blinds are versatile and can be installed in any room in the home, including living rooms, dining rooms, bedrooms and kitchens. They offer a modern aesthetic and allow you to control incoming light and privacy, making them suitable for different settings.
Do zebra blinds provide privacy at night?
When the solid bands are aligned, zebra blinds offer a good level of privacy. However, for complete privacy during the night and better light blockage, we recommend room-darkening zebra blinds, the Designer Double Zebra/Roller Shades, or layering zebra blinds with additional window treatments such as custom drapes.
Can zebra blinds be motorized?
Yes, all of our zebra blinds can be motorized for added convenience and operation at the touch of a button. The motorized option allows you to control the blinds remotely, making them an excellent choice for hard-to-reach windows, or for adding modern automation to your home. Add a Smart Hub for wi-fi operation (including the setting of timers/schedules) through a smartphone or by voice control via Alexa or Google.
What customization options are available for zebra blinds?
Select Blinds Canada offers various customization options for zebra blinds. You can choose between light-filtering and room-darkening fabrics, as well as optional features such as cassettes, motorization / Smart Blinds and no-drill installation.
How much do zebra blinds cost?
Since all of the blinds at Select Blinds Canada are made to your exact measurements and specifications, the price of zebra blinds depends on several factors including the width and height of the window covering, the type of fabric, and the addition of optional features such as motorization, cassettes or the no-drill installation headrail.
How do I measure my windows for zebra blinds?
For an inside mount, measure the exact width of the inside of the window frame at the top, middle, and bottom, and use the narrowest measurement. For the height, measure the inside frame at the left, center, and right, and use the longest measurement. For outside mount, measure the desired width and height of the area you wish to cover, adding up to an extra 4” to ensure proper coverage.
Are zebra blinds easy to install?
Yes, zebra blinds are quick and easy to install whether you’re an experienced DIY home renovator or a beginner. All you need is a tape measure, power drill/screwdriver, level and pencil. We provide all necessary hardware along with detailed instructions, and offer additional installation videos on the site. And our Customer Satisfaction team is here to answer any questions you may have.
You can make it even easier with the No-Drill Installation Headrail upgrade. This exclusive feature allows you to put up your new window coverings in a few minutes - no tools required. Simply snap the headrail into place and insert your zebra shade. No tools, no holes, no hassle!
How long will it take to receive my zebra blinds?
Many of our custom zebra blinds are Quick Ship, shipping within 2-3 days from date of order, so that you can receive your blinds within 1 – 1 ½ weeks. Other zebra blinds ship within 5-10 business days. You can check the specific delivery timing of each zebra blind on the product page.
How do I clean and maintain zebra blinds?
To clean zebra blinds, regularly dust them using a feather duster or soft cloth. For stains, spot clean with a gentle, bleach-free stain remover or a mixture of vinegar and water. Always test any cleaning solution on a small, inconspicuous area first. Avoid rubbing vigorously to prevent damage to the fabric.
