5% Solar Shades in Austin, TX
A 5% solar shade has a slightly more open weave than a 3%. You keep a clearer view outside while still cutting glare and UV.
5% is a good fit for windows with moderate sun, or rooms where the view matters most.
How solar shades work
A 5% solar screen has a slightly more open weave than a 3%: 95% of the surface is fabric. More daylight comes through and the view out is a little clearer, while the shade still blocks roughly 95% of UV.
It comes in the same colors and lift options as our other solar shades, including motorized.
Why we recommend them in Central Texas
Not every window needs maximum sun control. East- and north-facing rooms, shaded windows, and Hill Country views are often better served by 5%, which keeps rooms brighter and the view sharper.
Many homes use both: 3% on the hot west side and 5% everywhere else, in matching colors so the house still looks consistent from the street.
Benefits
What you get with custom solar shades from ATX Blinds & Draperies.
Clearer view
More open weave keeps the outdoors crisp.
Brighter rooms
More natural daylight than a 3% screen.
About 95% UV blocked
Still protects your interior from fading.
Matches 3% shades
Mix openness levels by window while keeping the same color.
Best for
- Rooms with a view you want to keep
- East- and north-facing windows
- Living areas with moderate sun
- Offices and conference rooms
Options
- Dark or light fabric colors
- Chain, cordless, or motorized
- Inside or outside mount
- Pairs well with draperies
- Smart hub for phone app and voice control, at home or away
Good to know
- On hard-hit west and south windows, 5% lets in more heat and glare than 3%.
- Daytime privacy is a little lower than with 3%, and there's no privacy at night with lights on.
What affects the price
- Size of each window (wider and taller costs more)
- Fabric or material you choose
- Lift system: chain, cordless, or motorized
- Mounting hardware, cassettes, or tracks
- Number of windows (larger orders often price better per window)
- Specialty shapes and hard-to-reach installs
Every quote is free, in writing, and broken down by window. See our cost guide.
Our process
Consultations are available seven days a week.
Free consultation
We come to you with samples and look at every window, how it faces, and how the room is used.
Measure & quote
We measure every window precisely and send a written quote within 24 hours.
Professional install
We install, test, and clean up. Products are covered by manufacturer warranties.
Care & maintenance
A few minutes now and then keeps them looking new.
Dusting
Dust every few weeks with a microfiber cloth, a feather duster, or the soft brush on your vacuum set to low suction. Regular dusting keeps buildup from settling into the weave.
Spot cleaning
Blot small marks with a soft cloth dampened with water and a little mild soap. Blot, don't rub, and let the fabric dry fully before you raise the shade.
Everyday use
Raise and lower the shade with the chain, bottom bar, or motor, never by pulling on the fabric. If it starts rolling unevenly, call us and we'll adjust it.
Solar shades, 5% openness: common questions
Have another question? Call (512) 751-8408.
Do 5% solar shades provide privacy?
During the day, yes. At night with lights on inside, people can see in, so many homeowners pair them with draperies.
Is 5% too open for Texas sun?
On west- and south-facing windows with full sun, 3% usually performs better. On east, north, or shaded windows, 5% works well.
How much UV does a 5% solar shade block?
About 95%.
Can I mix 3% and 5% shades in one room?
Yes, in the same color. Most people won't notice the difference from inside, but the hotter windows get more protection.
Can I control motorized shades from my phone?
Yes. Add a smart hub and you can raise, lower, group, and schedule everything from an app on your phone, at home or away, and connect to popular voice assistants.
Helpful guides
More detail before you decide.
3% vs. 5% Solar Shades: Which Openness Is Right for Texas Sun?
3% or 5% solar shades? How openness affects heat, glare, UV, view and privacy, which to use on west-facing windows, and why color matters as much as percentage..
Related products
Solar shades, 5% openness near you
Get a free quote on solar shades
Tell us a little about your project. We'll call to set a time that works, any day of the week, and bring our mobile showroom to you.
(512) 751-8408Text us: (512) 751-8408info@austintexasblinds.comConsultations available Monday through Sunday.
What happens next
- We call you from (512) 751-8408, usually the same day. Save our number so you know it's us.
- No answer? We'll text you from the same number to find a good time.
- We bring the showroom to you: samples at your windows, and we measure everything.
- Written quote within 24 hours. No obligation, no pressure.