Trapezoid Cellular Shades Buying Guide

Trapezoid Cellular Shades Buying Guide

Transform Your Trapezoid Windows

Discover everything you need to know—choose the ideal Trapezoid Cellular Shades, from measure to fabric selections, smart motor options and cleaning tips.


Patented Trapezoid Fit
Stylish & Practical
Custom-Made
Smart-Home Ready

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Trapezoid Collection

Get precise light control and energy savings for your angled windows with SmartWings’ custom-fit Trapezoid Cellular Shades.

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Many American homes feature architecturally distinctive windows—such as arched, angled, or trapezoid-shaped designs—that add character and style to the space. However, finding window treatments that both fit and function well on these unique shapes can be a challenge.

Our Trapezoid Cellular Shades are thoughtfully designed to address this need, offering a tailored solution that fits trapezoid windows precisely while elevating their aesthetic appeal. These shades combine smart engineering with elegant design, transforming angled-top windows into refined focal points in your home.

This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know—from accurate measuring and custom ordering to seamless installation, effortless operation, and long-term care—ensuring a perfect fit and lasting performance.

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1. How to Measure and Determine the Correct Size?

Properly sized Trapezoid Cellular Shades not only provide effective light control but also enhance the overall ambiance and aesthetic of your space. The following instructions will guide you through the measurement process, along with some helpful tips to ensure you determine the correct dimensions before placing your order.

1.1 Helpful Tips Before You Begin Measuring for Trapezoid Windows:
  • For the most accurate measurements, only use a steel tape measure.
  • Be sure not to mix up the measurement results. Always follow the base-height-hypotenuse format and label them accordingly.
  • Measure to the nearest 1/8 inch. Never round up or down to the nearest half or whole inch.
  • If you are measuring for more than one window, measure each one individually – never assume that your windows are the same size, even if they may look alike.
  • Trapezoid Cellular Shades are intended solely for inside mount installation, where the shades are fitted and positioned within the window recess, creating a clean and seamless appearance.
  • Measure the width from left to right at the top, middle, and bottom of the rectangular portion of your window opening.
1.2 What You Will Need

Tools selection:

  • Steel Tape Measure
  • Step Ladder (if necessary)
  • Pencil
1.3 How to Measure for Trapezoid Windows
Measure Window Depth
Check Window Depth

Check to see if your trapezoid windows have enough depth for mounting. Trapezoid window coverings typically need a minimum depth of 2 1/4” (5.7 cm) to install brackets and mount the product.

Base Height Hypotenuse
Measure Base, Height, and Hypotenuse
  • Base: Measure the horizontal edge of the window sill from one side to the other within the window opening.
  • Height: Measure the longest vertical edge of the jamb from one side to the other within the window opening.
  • Hypotenuse: Measure the sloped edge of the rake from one side to the other within the window opening.
Important Notes
  • All bottom corners of the window must be 90 degrees.
  • Order your product at the narrowest width and the shortest height. Use the exact measurements, taking no deductions.
  • The factory will apply a small deduction of approximately 3/16 inches (5 mm) during production to ensure a safe and proper installation.
Measure Skills
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2. Choosing Fabric, Motors & Power Options

To determine which customization options best meet your needs, start by asking yourself the following questions:

2.1 What Level of Light Control Do You Need? What’s Your Interior Design Style?

If you’re looking to gently filter sunlight while maintaining a comfortable level of privacy, light-filtering fabric is a great choice. It allows soft, natural light to enter the room while reducing glare and enhancing privacy. If you prefer a darker environment or need complete privacy—such as in bedrooms or media rooms—blackout fabric effectively blocks incoming light and offers full privacy.

When selecting fabric colors, consider your interior style. Light-colored fabrics complement classic cottage or modern minimalist designs, while darker tones pair beautifully with more traditional or vintage interiors.

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2.2 How Do You Want to Control Your Shades? Which Smart Platform Do You Use?
  • Standard Motor:
  • If you prefer everyday control via remote, this motor is the ideal choice. You can freely pair multiple shades with different channels on the remote, while Channel 0 allows you to control all paired shades simultaneously.

  • Smart Motor:
  • We offer a variety of Smart Motors designed to integrate seamlessly with different smart home systems. Choosing the right motor depends on the platform you plan to connect with, and it’s essential to use a compatible hub for successful integration. Visit our “How to Choose Smart Motors” page for an overview of each motor type and their supported platforms.

Motor Type Description
Matter Over Thread Motor Powered by the Matter over Thread protocol, this motor is compatible with any Matter-enabled ecosystem, such as Apple HomeKit, Google Home, Amazon Alexa, or other third-party Matter platforms.
HomeKit Over Thread This motor connects directly to Apple HomeKit, making setup quick and simple.

Compatible devices that can serve as HomeKit hubs include: HomePod mini, HomePod (2nd generation), Apple TV 4K (3rd generation, 128GB), Apple TV 4K (2nd generation).
Zigbee/Alexa Motor This motor runs on the Zigbee protocol and requires a Zigbee hub. It is compatible with Alexa, Google Home, SmartThings, Home Assistant, Hubitat, and Homey.
Z-Wave Motor This motor uses the Z-Wave 800 series chip for stronger connectivity, faster communication, and lower power use. It works with major Z-Wave platforms like SmartThings, Home Assistant, and Hubitat.
2.3 What Power Option Works Best for You?
  • Battery-Powered:
  • Our battery motors are rechargeable via the included Type-C cable. A full charge typically takes 6–7 hours and can last up to six months, depending on usage.

  • Optional Solar Panel:
  • If your window receives ample direct sunlight, especially if it’s hard to reach or lacks an overhang, a solar panel is a convenient add-on. It continuously recharges the battery, reduces the need for manual charging, and minimizes maintenance.

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3. What to Know Before Installation?

3.1 Installation Tips
  • Inside Mount Only

    Trapezoid Cellular Shades are designed exclusively for inside mount installation.
  • Mark Bracket Locations Before Drilling

    Before securing the brackets, use a pencil or marker to mark the exact bracket placement on the window frame. This ensures accurate positioning and simplifies the installation process.
  • Installing the Light Blocking Panel

    Each Trapezoid Cellular Shade comes with a compatible Light Blocking Panel. Before installing the panel, attach the mounting brackets to the grooves on the back of the panel. Be sure to insert the clip end of the bracket into the designated slot for a secure fit.

    Note: If your windows are located high up or if installation proves challenging, we partner with Nationwide Blind Installation, Inc. (NBI) to offer professional assistance. You can learn more about these services on our website under the Measuring & Installation Services section. Let our trusted professionals help ensure a smooth, hassle-free installation experience.

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4. Basic Functions and Operation

Once your Trapezoid Cellular Shades are installed, you can begin operating them with ease. Whether you're using a remote or managing them through a connected smart home app, the operation is simple, convenient, and user-friendly. (standard motors can skip sections 4.2-4.3).

4.1 First-Time Setup After Installation
  • Use the included original charging cable to fully charge the shade. A full charge typically takes 6–7 hours.
  • Pair the shade with channel on your remote (excluding Channel 0).
  • Refer to the operation manual to adjust the upper and lower limits according to your preferences.
4.2 Connecting to a Smart Home Platform
  • Check Hub Compatibility
  • Ensure that your smart hub is compatible with the motor type of your shade.

  • Optimize Hub Placement
  • For the best connection, avoid placing walls or large objects between the hub and the shade.

  • Enter Pairing Mode
  • Follow the user guide to put the shade into pairing mode. You can then pair it by using voice commands or by scanning the QR code on the shade’s label.

4.3 Smart Control Features
  • Create Rooms in the App: Group your shades by room within the app to enable simultaneous control of multiple shades.
  • Set Schedules: Automate your shades to operate according to your daily routine or personal preferences.
  • Create Smart Scenes: Design custom scenes such as “Morning,” “Arrive Home,” or “Movie Time.” Your shades will automatically adjust based on your chosen settings for each mode.

(Note: Different smart home platforms may have different automation settings.)

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5. Routine Maintenance and Cleaning

Proper routine maintenance and cleaning not only enhance the appearance of your shades but also help ensure long-lasting performance. In this section, you'll find practical tips and recommended tools for effectively caring for your Trapezoid Cellular Shades.

5.1 Routine Maintenance

Trapezoid Cellular Shades are built to last and require minimal upkeep. To ensure optimal performance and appearance, simply avoid the following:

  • Avoid exposure to liquids or high-humidity environments, as moisture may damage the fabric.
  • Keep sharp objects and pet claws away from the fabric to prevent scratches or tears.
Cleaning

Recommended Tools:

  • Vacuum cleaner with a soft brush attachment
  • Microfiber cloth
  • Blind duster

Tips:

  • Extra care should be taken when cleaning motorized cellular shades to preserve their structure and shape.
  • For routine dust removal, use a vacuum cleaner with a gentle brush attachment.
  • Avoid using water, as it may compromise the integrity of the fabric and internal components.
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FAQ: Common Questions from Trapezoid Cellular Shade Buyers

Find quick answers to the most common Trapezoid Cellular Shade questions—from installation and measurements to motor location, charging, and custom options for unique window shapes.

Can I install Trapezoid Cellular Shades myself, or do I need a professional installer?
Yes! Our Trapezoid Cellular Shades are designed for easy, DIY-friendly installation and come with clear step-by-step instructions. If your windows are located high up or are otherwise difficult to reach, we recommend hiring a professional installer for a safe and hassle-free experience.
How can I tell if my trapezoid windows are suitable for SmartWings Trapezoid Cellular Shades?
Simply provide our support team with your window’s Base, Height, and Hypotenuse measurements. We’ll quickly review your details and let you know if our product will be a good fit.
Note: The angle between the Base and Height must be a 90° right angle
I have two adjacent trapezoid windows forming an A-frame. Can SmartWings Trapezoid Cellular Shades be custom-made for them?
Absolutely. To ensure the best fit and functionality, please send us a clear photo of your windows along with the Base, Height, and Hypotenuse measurements. Our team will confirm the feasibility before placing your order.
Where is the motor side located on Trapezoid Cellular Shades?
The motor position is fixed—whichever side the Height is measured on, that’s where the motor side will be located.
How often do I need to charge the battery?
In most cases, you’ll only need to charge your shades every 4–6 months, depending on usage. If you opt for the solar panel, the panel will automatically recharge your shades when exposed to sufficient sunlight.

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