5 Smart Tips to Help You Pick the Right Exterior Window Shades in Kent

September 4, 2025
Modern beige home exterior with gray roller shades installed over a sliding glass door and window, accented by white trim and a flower planter.

Choosing the right exterior window shades for your Kent home isn’t just about blocking sunlight—it’s about enhancing your comfort, boosting curb appeal, and creating a space that works for your lifestyle. 


With so many fabric options, mounting styles, and color choices, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. But don’t worry—this guide will walk you through five smart, expert-backed tips to help you make the best decision. Whether you’re looking for better privacy, UV protection, or year-round energy savings, you’ll find real, practical answers here.


And if you're ready to explore high-quality, customizable options for your outdoor spaces, Pugerudes’ Exterior Window Shades & Sunscreens deliver exceptional durability and performance you can count on in Kent's changing weather.


Know What You Want Your Exterior Shades to Do

Start by defining the purpose your new shades will serve. Is it to reduce glare in your sunroom? To create more privacy on your patio? To block harsh afternoon light coming into your kitchen? 


Exterior window shades aren’t just decorative—they play a vital role in protecting your interiors and boosting your comfort. High-performing options like solar roller shades or zip-track systems can help regulate temperature, reduce fading on furniture, and even lower your energy bills. These aren’t just upgrades—they’re smart investments for daily comfort and long-term savings.


Unlike interior blinds, exterior roller shades offer an additional layer of insulation and are mounted outside your windows or patio areas to block sunlight before it even reaches the glass. That’s why they’re such a popular choice for homeowners in Kent who want a more energy-efficient home with less indoor heat gain.


Choose Weather-Resistant Materials That Last

Kent’s weather can change quickly, so your shades need to handle both sunny days and rainy afternoons. Always look for materials that are water-resistant, fade-resistant, and designed for outdoor use. Fabrics like those used in the KD-9 and SV-800 series are engineered for high performance in variable climates. These materials resist mold and mildew while maintaining their shape and appearance over time.


When installed properly, these shades can significantly improve the outdoor experience while cutting down on the need for costly replacements or repairs. They’re not only stylish but built to last—even when facing wind, UV rays, and Pacific Northwest rain.


Match the Right Style and Mounting to Your Home’s Architecture

It’s easy to overlook the style and mounting system when you’re focused on fabric and function, but these choices can drastically change the look and usability of your shades. If you want a minimalist appearance, go for sleek cassette-style housings. 


If your goal is stronger wind resistance, consider side channels that keep the fabric taut and secure. These features not only improve aesthetics but also enhance durability and ease of operation.


Mounting options include outside wall-mounted shades for patios or pergolas, or window-frame mounted systems for a more tailored finish. To explore how to blend functionality with elegance in sun-filled spaces, visit our helpful guide on How to Pick the Best Sunroom Window Treatments.


Understanding these little design choices early on helps ensure your shades will elevate—not clash with—your home’s overall style.


Select Colors That Work with Both Style and Function

Believe it or not, the color of your shades does more than just look good—it affects how well they perform. Light-colored shades reflect more sunlight and heat, making them ideal for hot south-facing windows. On the other hand, darker tones absorb more heat but offer better visibility from inside and reduce glare more effectively.


If your goal is a sleek, subtle exterior look, neutral tones like charcoal or stone gray often blend well with most siding colors. Homeowners in Kent commonly choose shades like KD-5 and SV-1.2K for both their function and their modern finish. 


Think beyond what’s trendy—choose what works with your home’s orientation, sun exposure, and overall palette.


Work with a Trusted Local Expert Who Understands Kent Homes

Even the best shade products won’t do their job if they’re poorly measured or installed. That’s why it pays to work with a local professional who understands the specific needs of Kent-area homes. From customizing shade sizes to recommending the right mounting style, an expert will save you time, money, and frustration in the long run.


At Pugerudes, we offer decades of experience helping homeowners find the perfect fit with exterior roller shades like the KD-5 and SV-600 series. Our team takes the time to understand your space and recommend a solution that works—no guesswork, just smart design and local service you can trust.


Smart Shade Choices Begin with Local Insight

The right exterior window shades can do more than improve your outdoor space—they can reduce energy costs, protect your interiors, and elevate your home’s overall look. With thoughtful design choices and professional installation, you’ll enjoy greater comfort and peace of mind all year long.


Whether you're upgrading your patio, sunroom, or window treatments, Pugerudes is here to help you every step of the way. From fabric selection to custom installs, we’ve got Kent homeowners covered with high-performance, weather-ready shades that look as good as they function. Schedule your free consultation today!



Frequently Asked Questions

What type of blinds looks best from the outside?
Exterior roller shades in dark, neutral tones often provide a clean and modern look. They blend well with most home exteriors and offer privacy without blocking the view from inside.


What is the most popular type of window shades?
Exterior roller shades are among the most popular due to their minimalist appearance, effective sun control, and ease of use. They're perfect for patios, sunrooms, and large windows.


What color should my window shades be?
Lighter shades reflect sunlight and keep interiors cooler, while darker shades reduce glare and provide better visibility. The best color depends on your home’s orientation and design goals.


Are exterior shades energy efficient?
Yes. A comprehensive study by Pacific Northwest National Laboratory (PNNL) demonstrated that exterior shades can significantly reduce HVAC energy consumption. In controlled tests on homes, installing exterior shades resulted in daily cooling energy savings between 1.0 and 3.2 kWh, equating to approximately 10% less energy use compared to homes using interior vinyl blinds. 


In cases where a home had no shading at all, exterior shades delivered up to 20% energy reduction in cooling loads. Plus, indoor temperatures were 2°F to 3°F cooler, and on mild days without AC, shaded homes stayed up to 9°F cooler than unshaded ones.

These findings make a strong case for promoting exterior shades—not only for comfort and aesthetics but also for real, measurable energy savings.


Can I customize the size and operation of my shades?
Absolutely. At Pugerudes, we offer fully customizable solutions, including motorized options, to ensure your exterior shades perfectly suit your space and lifestyle.


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