How Cellular Designs Improve Energy Efficiency

Honeycomb shades—also known as cellular shades—often come up in discussions about energy-efficient window treatments. But do they really help insulate your home, and if so, how? Below, we explore the science behind honeycomb shades, how AERC ratings factor in, and what metrics like U-factor, SHGC, and R-value mean for your comfort and energy bills.

1. How Honeycomb Shades Reduce Heat Transfer

The Cellular (Honeycomb) Structure

At the heart of every honeycomb shade is a series of hexagonal air pockets—the “cells”—that form a layered barrier between your interior space and the window glass. These air pockets trap air, slowing down heat transfer.

In Winter: Warm indoor air stays in, reducing chilly drafts and helping rooms feel cozier.
In Summer: The cells help block external heat, keeping your home cooler and lightening the load on your air conditioning.

Single, Double & Triple Cells

Single-Cell: A single layer of cells offers basic insulation and is often more budget-friendly.
Double-Cell or Triple-Cell: Multiple layers of honeycomb pockets provide enhanced insulation, suitable for very cold or very hot climates.

2. Key Metrics Explained

U-factor: Slowing Heat Escape

What It Is: A measurement that tells you how quickly heat moves through a material or product.
Why It Matters: A lower U-factor means less heat escapes in winter (and less unwanted heat enters in summer).
Ideal Range: Look for 0.30 or lower for strong insulation performance.

SHGC (Solar Heat Gain Coefficient): Blocking Summer Heat

What It Is: This number indicates how much solar radiation passes through a window treatment and warms your interior.
Why It Matters: A lower SHGC keeps your rooms cooler in sunny weather.
Target Figures: 0.30 or below is generally considered excellent for climates with intense summer sun.

R-value: How Well Heat Is Resisted

What It Is: R-value gauges how well a material resists heat transfer (commonly used for home insulation).
Why It Matters: Higher R-values mean more effective insulation. Although not always listed for window treatments, it’s another indicator of thermal performance.

3. Why AERC Ratings Are Important

The Attachments Energy Rating Council (AERC)

Who They Are: A third-party certification program that independently tests and rates the energy performance of window attachments, including honeycomb shades.
Why It Matters: AERC’s transparent, standardized ratings help you compare different window treatments on an apples-to-apples basis.

Cool vs. Warm Climate Ratings

Cool Climate Rating: Reflects how a product helps retain heat inside the home. A higher rating means better insulation for cold areas.
Warm Climate Rating: Indicates how well the window covering reduces incoming solar heat. A higher rating is better for hot climates.

Automation Ratings

Some honeycomb shades also feature automated schedules (e.g., closing at night in colder areas, opening in winter sun), which can maximize energy savings without requiring you to adjust them manually. AERC provides additional ratings for these automated benefits.

4. Comfort Beyond Temperature Control

Radiant Heat & Draft Reduction

Even if your windows are sealed, radiant heat loss can make you feel chilly in winter. High-quality cellular shades create a warmer interior surface compared to cold glass, so you stay comfortable without having to crank up the thermostat.

Glare Management & Daylighting

Filtered Light: Honeycomb shades soften harsh sunlight, reducing glare on screens and furniture.
Flexible Operation: Options like top-down/bottom-up let natural light in from above while preserving privacy below—a great feature for living rooms and bedrooms.

Acoustic Benefits

That same cellular structure can absorb up to 70% of sound energy, according to Hunter Douglas. If you live near busy streets or have noisy neighbors, honeycomb shades can help create a quieter, more peaceful indoor environment.

5. Maximizing Honeycomb Shade Performance

Snug Fit & Professional Installation
Air gaps reduce effectiveness, so precise measurements are key. At Normandeau Window Coverings, we ensure a custom fit to optimize insulation and aesthetics.
Choosing the Right Cell Count

For milder climates, single-cell honeycomb shades may suffice.
For extreme cold or heat, consider double-cell or triple-cell designs.

Layered Treatments
Combine honeycomb shades with drapery panels or valances for added insulation and a layered, designer look.
Automation for Efficiency
Motorized shades with smart scheduling can close during peak sun hours in summer or open during sunny winter afternoons to capture warmth.

6. Final Word

If you’re seeking a practical way to cut heating and cooling costs without sacrificing style, honeycomb shades are a proven solution. By forming an air-trapping barrier at the window, they effectively reduce energy loss, block unwanted solar heat gain, and improve overall comfort—especially when you choose AERC-certified products. At Normandeau Window Coverings, we’ll help you select and install the ideal honeycomb shade configuration for maximum insulation and year-round savings.

Working with Normandeau Window Coverings

Wide Range of Options: We carry Hunter Douglas cellular shades in various cell counts, opacities, and design styles.
Expert Guidance: Our specialists explain AERC ratings, U-factor, and SHGC so you can make an informed choice for your specific climate.
End-to-End Service: From in-home consultations to precise installations, we handle every detail to deliver a seamless experience.

Ready to enhance or refresh your window treatments? Click below to schedule a consultation or explore the full range of Hunter Douglas products and professional cleaning services. We are primarily serving Calgary, Red Deer, and the Okanagan.

Request Consultation

Arjun( Owner, Normandeau )

Arjun is an IT and real estate entrepreneur from Edmonton, AB.

Three Things We Love Most About Hunter Douglas’ Silhouette Window Coverings.

It’s not a secret that here at Normandeau, we love Hunter Douglas.Everything they make is fantastic. However, their Silhouette

June 30, 2014

How Often Should You Replace Your Blinds?

Window blinds may not be the first thing you think about when upgrading your home, but they play an

February 3, 2025

Explore Hunter Douglas PowerView® Automation: Revolutionize Your Window Treatments

Have you ever imagined opening or closing all the shades in your home with one push of a button? How about sitting on the couch and wishing you could just ask someone to close the shades for you? What if I told you we could help you achieve both!

Don’t get me wrong, there is a place in the world for well-priced store bought panels. They can add some quick colour and fit a smaller budget, but when you want a step above, it is time to think about the advantages of custom drapery. Whether you want a certain size, style or colour, you can get a beautiful quality product that truly suits your space.

July 15, 2023

Do Honeycomb Shades Really Insulate?

How Cellular Designs Improve Energy Efficiency