The core difference between single cell and double cell honeycomb shades is the number of air pockets each fold creates: single cell shades form one row of cells, while double cell shades stack two rows on top of each other for extra insulation and sound dampening. Both styles are part of the honeycomb shades lineup at Creative Blinds and Drapes, and the right choice usually comes down to the window's exposure and the budget available for the project.
What Changes Structurally Between the Two Styles?
The honeycomb shape itself does not change, only how many layers are stacked.
- Single cell shades use one row of fabric cells between the glass and the room.
- Double cell shades stack a second row directly behind the first, doubling the trapped air.
- Double cell fabric is thicker and the folded shade sits slightly deeper in the headrail.
- Single cell shades fold flatter when raised, so they leave a smaller stack at the top of the window.
- Double cell shades weigh more, which can affect lift smoothness on extra wide windows.
Which One Insulates and Muffles Sound Better?
Energy performance is the main reason buyers choose between the two, and every fabric sample measured by Creative Blinds and Drapes is tested with this question in mind:
- Double cell shades generally provide a higher R-value than single cell shades on the same window.
- The extra air layer in a double cell shade also absorbs more outside noise, which matters on windows facing a busy street.
- Single cell shades still outperform flat blinds or flat roller shades on both counts.
- Rooms with high heating or cooling demand, such as a home office or nursery, often get more benefit from the double cell option.
Does the Choice Affect Installation or Maintenance?
The lift and mount hardware stay largely the same across both versions, so installation time does not change much.
- Both styles mount the same way, inside or outside the window frame.
- Cleaning is the same for both: light dusting or a gentle vacuum brush attachment.
- A heavier double cell shade may need a slightly sturdier mounting bracket on wide windows.
- Replacement parts and lift cords, where used, are interchangeable between some single and double cell models.
Single Cell vs Double Cell at a Glance
| Feature | Single Cell | Double Cell |
|---|---|---|
| Air pockets | One row | Two rows |
| Typical R-value gain | Moderate | Higher |
| Sound dampening | Light | Noticeably stronger |
| Stack height when raised | Lower | Slightly higher |
| Typical price position | Lower | Higher |
Single cell and double cell honeycomb shades both insulate better than flat fabric, so the decision mostly comes down to how much extra performance a window's exposure or noise level justifies. The full shades hub shows how both styles compare to roller, Roman, and sheer options in one place, and anyone weighing the two can schedule a free in-home consultation to test samples against an actual window. For a wider look at how fabric quality affects long-term value, our guide on the difference between cheap and expensive blinds is worth a read before ordering.