What Is The Difference Between A Reverse And A Standard Roll?

If you want to roll with us, you’re going to need to know a thing or two about roller shades. Most importantly, I’m talking about reverse and standard rolls – the two ways you can hang the fabric from the top of your shade.

With a standard roll, your fabric will lay flat against your window and raise up onto the top bar from behind when the shade is raised. This may cause the top fabric roll to stick out further from your window, but it also will create better light coverage.

Your other option is called a reverse roll. With this style, the shade fabric will wrap over the top roll and hang in front of your window like a waterfall. As you might imagine, this will create a bigger light gap, because the fabric isn’t technically touching your window, but you’ll get a cleaner, designer look. Whichever style you choose, your roller shades will effortlessly glide up and down your window.

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What is Reverse Roll?

A reverse roll roller shade features fabric that rolls off the front of the tube, creating a distinctive “waterfall” effect. In this configuration, the shade fabric wraps over the top roll and cascades down in front of your window, positioning the material further away from the glass. This design choice offers several key advantages:

• Conceals hardware: The fabric hides the roller tube and mounting hardware, creating a clean, minimalist appearance
• Clears obstacles: Perfect for windows with handles, cranks, or trim that might interfere with the shade
• Designer aesthetic: Provides a sleek, contemporary look without requiring a separate valance
• Windowsill clearance: Allows space for decorative items or plants on your windowsill

What is Standard Roll?

Standard roll roller shades, also known as regular roll or traditional roll shades, have the fabric rolling off the back of the tube. This is the most common installation method where the fabric hangs closer to the window glass. Key characteristics include:

• Maximum light control: The fabric sits closer to the window, minimizing light gaps around the edges
• Better privacy: Reduces potential sight lines from outside
• Energy efficiency: Creates better thermal insulation by sealing closer to the window
• Exposed hardware: The roller tube and mounting mechanism remain visible

Difference Between A Reverse And A Standard Roll

Standard vs reverse roller blinds ultimately comes down to your priorities: choose standard roll for maximum light control and privacy, or reverse roll for aesthetic appeal and obstacle clearance.