Types of roller blinds and rules for their selection, taking into account type, color, size

Roller blinds have recently become a very popular way to decorate plastic windows. They are canvases of fabric equipped with a mechanism that allows you to roll them completely or adjust their length and fix them at a certain level. May also be called fabric roller blinds or roller blinds.

The simplest type of mechanism consists of a shaft, a blade, a bar (plumb line) attached to the bottom of the blade for uniform lowering/raising, guides and chains with which you can control the mechanism.

Functions

In addition to the fact that roller blinds are a decorative element that, together with other interior items, gives the room a unique style, they also perform a protective function:

• partially or completely prevent the penetration of light from the outside, and also hide from prying eyes everything that happens inside;
• protect wallpaper, furniture and home textiles from exposure to direct sunlight and fading. In combination with curtains, they also prevent their fading;
• They create an air gap between the double-glazed window and the room and in the cool season do not allow cold air to penetrate inside, and in the summer they protect from heat.

Translucent, allowing sun and light to pass through

Such fabrics are used more for room decoration. They have the lowest density, but at the same time they look quite interesting on the window due to transparent inserts or small, barely noticeable perforations (for example, Screen fabric).

Such fabrics are the most technologically advanced and protect well from the bright sun. True, they have one rather significant drawback - in the evening, with the lights on, everything that happens in the room will be visible.

But the undeniable advantage of these fabrics is that through closed roller blinds you can safely observe what is happening on the street. As a rule, such roller blinds perform the function of tulle and are quite often combined with traditional curtains.

Light transmittance

In many ways, the purpose and functions of such curtains depend on the degree of light transmission of the material from which they are made. They are:

• transparent. They transmit light well and diffuse it gently. They perform more of a decorative function and are used in combination with other types of curtains (drapes, curtains);
• translucent or dimout (DimOut). Partially darkens while trapping heat. They have a special fabric structure with double satin weave. At night they provide almost complete darkness;
• opaque or blackout (BlackOut). Completely prevent the penetration of light into the room both day and night;
• "day-night" or zebra. Made from a special fabric combining transparent and opaque stripes. They differ from other types in that the design uses two parallel cuts of fabric: by moving one relative to the other and combining the stripes, you can adjust the degree of darkening. They can also be fully raised.

If you decide to choose new comfortable “clothes” for your window, take a closer look at roller blinds, and we will tell you how to make your choice.

Additional recommendations for choosing and designing roller blinds

A competent choice of curtains is important for creating comfort and attractiveness of the interior. If you want to create an original and harmonious interior, you can use the advice of experienced designers:

• Try decorating a high-tech style with zebra roller blinds for day and night. This design fits perfectly into this direction and complements the decor well.
• If the room lacks natural light, it is located in the east, north, or shaded by trees, take advantage of the unique capabilities of Burn-out curtains. These are designs with translucent canvases. The burnt pattern provides them with a stylish, extraordinary look. The decor does not interfere with the penetration of natural light and creates a comfortable environment in the room, conducive to relaxation.

Burn-out roller blinds with translucent fabrics

• When designing thick curtains made of polyvinyl chloride, polyester, blackout, use photo printing. This is ideal for a unique design. On an individual order, specialists can apply any image: landscape, abstraction, personal photo, etc.
• When choosing a roll-up system for decorating a newborn’s room, preference is given to dense materials that provide comfortable conditions for daytime sleep. A blackout would be an excellent option. It not only does not allow light to pass through, but also muffles street noise.

Thick roller blinds for a child's comfortable daytime sleep

• In a preschooler's room, it is better to install a system with a medium-density canvas to ensure sufficient natural light and simplify the process of waking up in the morning. Bright colors are welcome in the children's room.

Carefully studying photos of roller blinds prepared by professional designers and following their recommendations will help you decorate your home or apartment with comfortable, beautiful designs, create maximum comfort, and ensure full compliance with today’s fashion trends.

Curtains “Day - Night”

Curtains “Day - Night” are the golden mean between boring office blinds and cozy home textiles. The main difference between such products is the ability to adjust the lighting intensity without the need to constantly raise and lower the shutters. The fabric material from which the “Day – Night” models are made consists of transparent and opaque strips, alternating at equal distances from each other. Using a special mechanism, the stripes are shifted, and the required level of darkness is achieved in the room.

The most common are two types of roller blinds:

• mini-rollo - small ergonomic structures that are installed inside the opening directly on the window frame using double-sided tape or special brackets. In this way, not the entire opening is closed, but only the glass;
• rollo - have a larger size in width, a heavier rod, and are attached by drilling to the wall or ceiling in front of the window opening.

Hanging a mini rollo yourself will not be difficult, whereas with ordinary curtains you will have to tinker. But as a result, such a design will be more reliable and last longer.

One of the most famous manufacturers of fabric products for the home is the Turkish company Garden, which has long been familiar to our customers. The catalog of this brand presents many options for protective light filters of various designs, colors and styles.

Domestic roller blinds provide worthy competition to imported products.

Let’s compare “Day-Night” roller blinds from two popular brands, paying attention to the differences in the fastening system, sizes and prices.

1. Lightproof degree

Despite the stylish design and variety of textures of modern roller blinds, their main function remains unchanged - to protect our home from bright light at inopportune times and create an atmosphere of intimacy and comfort in our home.

• Curtains with 10 – 30% opacity

Roller blinds made of material with a light resistance of up to 30% are mainly used as additional window protection.
Such a product will not only protect your home from prying eyes and protect furniture facades from fading, but will also serve as an original decorative element. The undeniable advantage of transparent curtains is that you can easily observe what is happening outside the window, while remaining in the invisibility zone. However, such material will not hide you in the evening if the electric light is on in the room. That is why a window opening with similar roller blinds is usually decorated with thick textile drapes or curtains.

On sale you can find many varieties of curtain models of various textures and designs, so choosing the ones that suit the interior of your apartment will not be difficult.

A wide range of low-density light filters are produced by the Russian company.

• Curtains with 50 - 60% opacity

If neon advertising outside your window regularly prevents you from resting, the light from a bright flashlight disturbs you, and your child’s daytime sleep is often interrupted, the lighting of the bedroom plays an important role in solving this problem.

The optimal solution would be to choose high-density roller blinds that will provide no more than 50% light penetration. Depending on the fabric pattern, you can emphasize the overall style of the room, visually expand the window or increase the height of the ceiling. As an example, here are several interesting models of Russian roller blinds, the elegant monochromatic appearance of which will ideally fit into the decor of any room.

Thick, high-quality curtains will perfectly decorate the window space, preventing the sun's rays from causing you discomfort, and a large selection of colors to suit every taste will allow you to choose the optimal design.

Blackout curtains – 95 – 100% opaque

Curtains with this name provide almost complete darkness in the apartment, despite the time of day outside the window. They protect the room from sunlight up to 100%. This incredible result is achieved thanks to modern material with acrylic coating, which not only blocks bright light, but also keeps the room cool, preventing the air from heating up. This means that even on the hottest summer day, you will always feel comfortable in a room with such curtains.

Blackout curtains have a number of advantages compared to other models:

• These products have the highest level of protection from bright light today;
• dense, but light and thin material, equally securely attached both to the rod and with adhesive tape to the window frame;
• the fabric does not fade, does not accumulate dust, and has dirt-repellent properties;
• long service life. The material does not fade and is resistant to deformation;
• ease of care. These curtains don't even need to be washed. Just run a damp cloth over them from time to time and they will look like the day you bought them again.

1. Bamboo roller blinds

Another type of roller blinds is bamboo roller blinds. These models are made of thin bamboo strips connected in such a way that they can be easily rolled up.

Bamboo curtains differ from fabric curtains and have their own number of advantages and disadvantages:

• bamboo is an environmentally friendly natural material with antistatic and antibacterial properties;
• it is light, durable, resistant to temperature changes and high humidity;
• bamboo curtains perfectly allow fresh air to pass through, while absorbing sunlight well;
• does not fade in the sun, does not attract dust, does not cause allergies;
• the natural color of bamboo goes well with country, eco-style furnishings or interiors in oriental colors;
• The main disadvantage of bamboo curtains is associated with incorrect installation, when they try to cover a wide window with one large sheet. Over time, the material begins to sag and deform. In this case, there is a need to install several roller blinds of small width.

The light transmission of bamboo curtains ranges from 10 to 30%.

Ways to control roller blinds

There are three main ways to control roller blinds. Each of them has its pros and cons. Let's analyze and describe each of them.

Chain

The chain control mechanism for roller blinds is the most cost-effective and common type of control. The chain is made up of plastic balls attached to a strong thread, the two ends of which are fastened with a control chain lock. The mechanisms are painted in different colors, often white, but depending on needs, you can install brown, light brown, oak, mahogany and others. Of course, provided that you make custom roller blinds.

The roller blind is controlled as follows. Pulling one end of the chain raises the curtain and lowers it at the other.

Advantages:

• Prevalence, installed on all types of roller blinds
• Price
• Ease of use
• Maintainability

Flaws:

• There is a possibility of a chain break. (Children, pets, etc.)

Spring-loaded (PIM)

The spring-inertial mechanism for controlling roller blinds is a rather expensive type of control, and is used in cases where the chain mechanism is not suitable for some reason. A spring inserted into the roller blind shaft. Lowering the curtain down is carried out by applying force to the lower plumb line of the fabric on which the handle is installed. At this moment the spring comes into tension. When the curtain fabric is lifted up, the spring winds the fabric fabric onto the shaft and the tension in it decreases. It is possible to install the Uni-2 system in such a way that the fabric covers the window from bottom to top or, for example, from right to left

Advantages:

• No control circuit

Flaws:

• Price
• Not suitable for all roller blind systems
• You have to reach to the top

Read more…

Electric

Electric control is the most expensive and most convenient control for roller blinds. The big advantage is that it can be used in conjunction with a smart home system. Set the opening/closing of curtains for a certain time of day (this will be relevant for flowers, for example). This type of control will solve the problem of controlling curtains on hard-to-reach windows (staircases in cottages, two-level apartments or rooms with high windows).

Advantages:

• Convenience
• Reliability
• Maintainability

Flaws:

• Price
• Not suitable for all roller blind systems

Read more…

Types of material

Roller shutters are made from natural or synthetic fabrics. Nylon and polyester are especially popular. Such curtains are characterized by strength, durability, light and heat resistance and ease of care. Special qualities are also added to the basic properties, which give the material special types of processing: dust-repellent, antibacterial, antistatic, fireproof, mirror and other options.

When purchasing, depending on the room in which it will be used, its purpose, climatic conditions, etc., as well as individual preferences, you should pay attention to the following characteristics:

• light transmittance. Varies from 99% in transparent options to 0% in curtains made from blackout fabrics. Translucent ones have a light transmission rate of 50-75%;

Read more : Features of choosing Blackout Blackout roller blinds .

• moisture resistance. An indicator that is important when using curtains in conditions of high humidity. To impart this property, the fabric is treated with special protectors (for example, Scotchgard, Teflon (PTFE), Sunbrella, etc.). For nylon products, there is no need to use such impregnation for this purpose (they are not hygroscopic), but for cotton products it is extremely important: when absorbing moisture and drying, they can shrink, become deformed and lose their attractive appearance;
• dust repellent. Products treated with a special dust-repellent composition are much easier to care for, and this is also an excellent option for people with dust allergies. It can also be Scotchgard or Sunbrella, which also adds light fastness to the canvas;
• fire resistance. The use of Crypton or Teflon coatings will protect the curtains from fire.

Also, such impregnations give the fabric the necessary rigidity.

There are special decorative fabrics made from bamboo, papyrus or metallized thread on sale. They are no less functional and practical and give the room a unique style and personality. Read more : Bamboo curtains: choosing natural

The price of the finished product will depend on the type of system and control mechanism, width and length, as well as fabric. Depending on the raw material and type of weave, there are five main price categories for roller shutter fabrics. The first is the most inexpensive, usually synthetic translucent materials; the fifth may include exclusive fabrics made from natural raw materials with handmade elements.

Dimensions and mounting

They can be a solid canvas that covers the window completely, or smaller sectors for individual sashes.

Solid ones can be attached to a wall, to the ceiling, or in a window opening on a frame. Some are attached directly to the shutters; the diameter of the shaft rarely exceeds 1.5 cm, which is why they are called mini-roller blinds.

The choice depends on the characteristics of the window (the presence of defects that need to be hidden), the style of the interior, the purpose of the curtains, and individual preferences. They all have their advantages and disadvantages:

• When mounted on sashes, it is easier to open windows; you do not need to lift the entire curtain to do this. In addition, the window sill remains functional: you can put flowers on it or lay out pillows;
• solid panels allow you to hide defects in the window structure, and also, if necessary, provide better shading, since they completely eliminate gaps.

How to correctly take window measurements for roller blinds with fastening inside the opening

If you choose a model with fastening inside the opening, try to measure as accurately as possible, taking into account every millimeter.
If you determine the dimensions incorrectly, the curtain rod you purchased may simply not fit into the window opening and further installation of the curtain will become impossible.

When measuring the width of a window opening, you need to take into account the unevenness of the walls, so measurements are taken in three places, and the minimum value is selected for calculations. It is also necessary to do the same when measuring the height of the opening.

• From the smallest value of the opening width, subtract 1 cm and get the overall width of the product. Taking into account the fastenings, the width of the curtain fabric will be 1.5 - 2 cm smaller.
• We calculate the height of the product in the same way - subtract 1 cm from the minimum value. The length of the fabric in this case will correspond to the height of the window opening to the window sill.
• The next step in the design of a window group is the choice of the type and location of the lifting mechanism, the density and design of the curtain fabric.

Mechanism

The shaft on which the web is wound may be open or a closed structure.

Open

In the open type there is the shaft itself, fabric with a lower plumb bar and a chain. Lines can be installed on the sides to prevent gaps from forming between the frame and the fabric when the sash is opened or when there is a draft. The diameter of the shaft depends on the height of the window and the length of the curtain. The greater the height, the larger the diameter will be. They usually range from 2 to 4.5 cm.

Closed

The closed design is complemented by a plastic box that hides the shaft itself and the material screwed onto it. The color of such a box can be matched to the shade of the fabric or window frame.

Cassette

In cassette curtains, which are usually installed on separate shutters, plastic guides are added to the sides, so the curtain itself is completely “hidden” in the frame. Using this mechanism in combination with blackout fabric allows you to achieve 100% blackout. Read in detail : About all the mechanisms of cassette roller blinds

Measurements with installation in front of the opening

If the method of installation on the wall in front of the opening is best suited for your window, then you have more opportunities to choose the height and width of the curtain according to your own needs.

You can choose roller blinds that cover only the outline of the window, or you can purchase a model that will hide part of the wall around it. Using this type of installation, Blackout products are often installed, which provide the greatest protection from sunlight.

For standard sizes of roller blinds, the following calculation formula is applicable:

• Width = Opening width + 10 cm.
• Length = Opening height + 15 cm.

It should be remembered that the height of the product is measured from the place where the curtain is attached to the window sill or lower, as necessary. The width is also selected taking into account the desired overlap on both sides of the window opening.

In this case, the control cord for the lifting mechanism can be located on either side of the curtain, whichever is more convenient for you - left or right.

Due to the variety of shapes and types of window frames, some disagreements may arise with the measurement schemes presented in the article.

If your window was installed according to an individual project, or has a non-standard shape or size, in order to avoid mistakes, it is better to contact a specialist installing roller blinds. In any case, regardless of which method of measuring, purchasing and installing fabric roller blinds you choose, the main thing is that the end result brings you only positive emotions.

Types of control

Mechanical. It is used in both open and closed types of construction. The canvas is wound onto the shaft using a self-locking chain mechanism - a special chain that is installed on the right or left. There are also models with a spring control mechanism - they have a special tongue on the bottom bar, by pulling which you can adjust the position of the curtain.

Automatic. Used in closed structures. Roller blinds with an electric drive built into the box are called automatic. The mechanism is activated using a button on the built-in panel or remote control. Indispensable for very high windows. The disadvantage is that there are some restrictions when choosing a cleaning method, the possibility of failure of the electric drive and expensive repairs.

Types of curtains depending on the direction of movement

• top down
• down up

The first option is the most common and familiar to most people. Particular attention should be paid to roller curtains, which can be adjusted in a different direction, namely from bottom to top. The box, thanks to the special structure of the system, moves along the guide lines in the opposite direction. The box itself with a fabric base can be installed from below, and not from above, as in most cases. Most often, this option is especially convenient for rooms on the first floors, where people want to protect themselves from prying attention and views, while the lighting will enter through the gap in the upper part of the window. Most often this system is used on roof windows.

How to choose

First of all, when choosing, they are guided by the purpose of the room and the functions that the curtains will perform.

Office, production premises, store

Usually a reinforced shaft (45+ cm) is used so that it can withstand greater loads. Translucent canvases are preferred, which will provide a fairly good level of illumination and at the same time eliminate the glare of sunlight on computer monitors. It is convenient to use a “day-night” or “double” system, where there are two curtains in one box. Electrically driven systems are most often installed. Read more : About day-night curtains for changes in the interior .

Living room, office

Typically, curtains are chosen that reflect the sun's rays well and provide about 70% blackout. This is necessary so that the TV or computer monitor screen does not glare. Much attention is paid to the choice of color, texture and pattern. Want to know: How to change the interior of your living room using roller blinds?

Bedroom

Most often, blackout curtains are installed, which, in addition to darkening, also provide good sound insulation.

Children's

For very young children who still sleep during the day, you can choose roller blinds made from completely light-proof material and complement them with bright tulle. For older children, translucent ones are suitable. Read more : What to look for when choosing roller blinds for a children's room .

Kitchen

Since this room simply needs a sufficient amount of light, translucent materials with special impregnation are suitable, which will repel dirt and also prevent the absorption of odors. We recommend reading: How to combine style and practicality of curtains in the kitchen .

Home cinema

Curtains made from sound-absorbing blackout fabric are ideal.

Swimming pool, sauna, shower

You should definitely buy curtains made of fabric with moisture-resistant impregnation so that the product does not deform; they can be of any density and translucency.

Balcony or loggia

Depends on the side the windows face and how you use the balcony. If the side is sunny and you want maximum sun protection, choose “blackout” or “dimout”. If the windows are located on the north or west side, you can choose transparent or “day-night” ones. A closed type of design is preferable, so less dust will fall on the control unit. Read more : Practical application of roller blinds

Greenhouse, winter garden

Transparent ones are suitable, they let in the maximum amount of light while retaining heat. It is better to choose nylon ones, as they practically do not absorb moisture.

Attic

In rooms with sloping windows, cassette systems are installed. Usually it is difficult to hang any curtains on such windows, so only roller blinds are used. The degree of translucency depends on the purpose of the attic: if there is a bedroom, then “blackout” or “day-night” fabrics will be preferable, and if there is an office, then translucent ones.

Installing roller curtains in different rooms

You can install such curtains in the entire apartment at once. In addition, they are often combined with traditional curtains.

The installation method and type of curtains are optional. But it is worth considering some nuances that will allow you to use roll structures to the maximum.

So, for example, for installation in the kitchen it is better to choose curtains that will be attached to the doors. This will allow you to adjust natural light, plus free up a lot of space.

You can choose standard options for the room. But if you are going to combine rollers with curtains or simply use them as a light filter, they should also be attached to the frame or sashes.

Roller blinds are a great option for your home . This is due to the fact that they are easy to keep in order and do not need to be washed and ironed.

An additional advantage is the ability to install them yourself. This means that you don’t have to waste time calling the experts and waiting for them to arrive.

Color options

The choice of colors and textures often depends on the already established style in the interior of the room: they are selected to match the tone (but not the color to avoid blending) with the wallpaper or furniture. Sometimes, on the contrary, they use a game of contrast.
Plain colors will definitely suit any style, as they themselves are laconic and neutral. Neutral pastel shades are often chosen for offices and industrial premises, while bright or light colors are chosen for living rooms. Also, light shades can visually expand the space, so they are great for small rooms.

When choosing a shade, you should take into account which side the windows face: if on the south, then it is better to choose cold, calm ones to compensate for the excess of light, and if on the west and north, warm tones are suitable.

Thick or transparent curtains in light colors are suitable for a child's room. Blackout fabrics also come in white and with beautiful photo printing.

If you prefer patterns or designs on your curtains, match them to the overall style of the room. Read more : How to change the view from the window using photo printing on curtains .

The color of the box and guides is usually purchased to match the window frame. They can be white, silver, golden or “wood-like”: walnut, light oak, mahogany (usually 30-40% more expensive than white). The bottom bar is sometimes wrapped in fabric.

Roller blinds with guides

There is another system of roller curtains - closed. They are also often called roller blinds with guides. The functionality of such curtains is quite specific - most often such designs are used in rooms where it is necessary to achieve maximum darkness: children's rooms, operating rooms, etc.

The difference between such curtains and ordinary ones is that they are additionally reinforced on the sides with guides, which makes the structure look like a frame.

At the same time, both the frame and the guides can be easily matched to the color of the window itself. The canvas in such options belongs to the Black-out category, which gives them the opportunity to be as dark as possible.

Sometimes, to achieve 100% blackout, such curtains are supplemented with a rubberized base.

How to choose the size

Roller blinds can be sold either ready-made or made to order according to measurements taken by the customer or craftsman.

• When attaching closed and cassette mechanisms to sashes, the width must be measured as accurately as possible. You need to add 3 cm to it (1.5 cm on each side so that there are no gaps).
• If the structure will be attached to the opening, you need to add 2-4 cm of margin to the width of the glass, but keep in mind that a few more centimeters will be added here for the adjustment mechanism (chain), it must fit into the opening.
• When the curtains are attached to the wall (above the opening), a few centimeters are added to the width of the opening on each side.

If you buy ready-made options, you can adjust the width yourself: to do this, the cornice is disassembled, the shaft is sawed to the required length, and the fabric is cut.
You will need a certain set of tools and some skills in working with them. Read more : How to measure correctly

Design of roller curtains for a doorway

Sophistication of design. It should be borne in mind that such blinds for a doorway can be ordered from almost any type of material.

This allows you to get away from the usual stereotypes and create a truly unique interior design, for example, taking advantage of the opportunity provided by printed curtains.

Equipment

A set of roller blinds usually includes:

• finished cornice. Includes roller and curtain;
• box with side plugs, if provided;
• built-in control mechanism. Self-locking chain or electric drive;
• guides. PVC or fishing line;
• weighting material for the lower part;
• fastening the upper cornice. This may include mechanism brackets and screws or double-sided adhesive tape (usually included with lightweight mini roller blinds);
• retainer Magnets;
• installation instructions.

The equipment is always different, it depends on the type and model of curtains and the manufacturer.

Varieties

There are two main types of systems, differing in design.

• Open

Consists of a shaft and canvas. They are not protected by anything and are clearly visible. Therefore, this type is called open.

The equipment is inexpensive, but in some cases the mechanism can have a negative impact on the design of the room. Also, be prepared for the fact that light will still penetrate from the sides: this is especially important when you are buying decor for a bedroom or nursery.

A weighting agent (made of aluminum or plastic) must be provided in the lower part. It is needed for the fabric to stretch.

• Closed

Here the base is closed on top with a protective cassette, and guides are installed on the sides of the opening. This ensures that the curtain fits snugly against the window and minimizes sun penetration.

The design can blend so well with the profile that in the folded position it is practically invisible. Or, on the contrary, you can choose a contrasting frame that will become an effective addition to the interior.

But the system will cost more, and its installation is more difficult.

Installation

Roller shutters can be attached in different ways:

• Using self-tapping screws, each bracket is secured to the frame, wall or ceiling. The shaft can be inserted into the bracket and snapped into place, or it can also be secured with self-tapping screws. This method is more reliable and can withstand even heavy structures;

Read more : How to attach roller blinds to plastic windows .

• Without drilling, they install open or cassette-type mini systems directly on the sashes. They are lightweight, so the use of self-tapping screws is not necessary. The brackets are attached to the window frame using double-sided tape or glue, then the cornice is inserted into special locks with latches. Drop-in brackets are also used (placed on top of the sash).

Read more : How to hang roller blinds on plastic windows without drilling .
When using adhesive tape and glue, it is necessary to degrease and warm the metal-plastic surface.

Fixing guides and magnets

To ensure that the curtain does not move away from the glass when opening the window sash, the bottom bar is fixed from below with magnets or side guides are installed - fishing lines or PVC strips.

• The magnets are attached at the bottom to the frame using mounting foam or double-sided tape (one on each side of the glass, that is, 2 pieces for each panel).
• The fishing lines are pulled and fixed vertically on the sides, and the lower bar slides along them.
• Before gluing the PVC guides, the side surfaces of the frame are degreased. You can use acetone or thinner. Then the protective film is removed from them, the upper edge is inserted under the cover of the control unit and the adhesive side is pressed against the frame.

Thus, the curtain adheres to the window even when the sash is tilted.

Methods for installing roller blinds

Depending on the tasks and design features of the installation site, various methods of installing roller blinds are used.

Down up

Roller blinds Bottom-up

— at their core, these are Uni-2 cassette roller blinds with a spring mechanism (PIM) or (PIM) installed upside down. It is also possible to install these curtains so that the fabric opens from right to left or vice versa. The roll of fabric, which is closed with a decorative box, in this case, will be positioned vertically, and the fabric sheet will be closed/opened horizontally. The system is relevant for the first and underground (basement) floors of buildings, when it is required that the lower part of the window be closed and the upper part slightly open. Let me clarify that pleated curtains can also open from bottom to top.

Advantages:

• Solves a specific problem
• Convenience
• Reliability
• Maintainability

Flaws:

• Price
• Only one system of roller blinds can be installed from bottom to top (Uni-2 with PIM mechanism)
• Not all manufacturers produce
• Only to order

Read more…

On the window sash

Roller blinds for window sash

- This is the most popular and convenient type of installation of roller blinds.

Advantages:

• Price
• Convenience
• Saves space on the windowsill
• Reliability
• Maintainability
• Possibility to install both free-hanging and cassette curtains
• You can buy ready-made options in the shopping center
• Present on Aliexpress
• You can install an electric drive

Flaws:

• Drill the window frame (if not using tape)
• Limits the opening angle of the sash (not always)

Into the opening

Roller blinds in the opening

- a practical option for installing roller blinds. It can be installed either on the side slopes or on the top slopes of the window, or on the window frame itself. In this case, you need to look at how and what the slopes are made of. This is necessary in order to determine whether the curtain will be securely fastened. Often, slopes are made of special siding, which is not very durable, and the fasteners will not hold well. It is possible that the handle of the swing sash will interfere with the fabric, or vice versa, the roll of fabric, when the window sash is opened. If one of the listed reasons is present, then it is better to install the roller blind on the wall, thereby covering the entire opening.

Advantages:

• Price
• Convenience
• Reliability
• Maintainability
• Possibility to install only free-hanging systems
• You can buy ready-made options in the shopping center
• Present on Aliexpress
• You can install an electric drive

Flaws:

• Drill a slope or window frame
• There is no possibility of installation on tape

On the wall

Roller blinds on the wall

— when installing a roller blind on a wall, first of all, look to see if any objects (switches, etc.) will interfere with the operation of the curtain. Decide on the height of the product, it is better to take it with a reserve, and adjust the actual height using chain limiters.

Advantages:

• Price
• Convenience
• Reliability
• Maintainability
• Possibility to install only free-hanging systems
• You can buy ready-made options in the shopping center
• Present on Aliexpress
• You can install an electric drive

Flaws:

• Drill a wall or window frame
• There is no possibility of installation on tape

To the ceiling

Roller blinds for the ceiling

— in some cases, it is necessary to install roller blinds on the ceiling or on the upper, horizontal slope of the window. In this case, the brackets are screwed to a horizontal plane and the roller blind functions properly. Unless of course the ceiling is suspended. If it is not possible to install the products on the ceiling, but you need to place the roll as close to the ceiling as possible, then simply install the roller blinds on the wall, as close to the ceiling as possible.

Advantages:

• Price
• Convenience
• Reliability
• Maintainability
• Possibility to install only free-hanging systems
• You can buy ready-made options in the shopping center
• Present on Aliexpress
• You can install an electric drive

Flaws:

• Drill the ceiling or window slope
• There is no possibility of installation on tape

For roof/slanted windows

Roller blinds for attic/slanted windows

— it is possible to install both free-hanging ones, complete with fishing line or cables, and cassette ones. When removing the size, it is necessary to take into account the angle of inclination of the wall or window and the density of the fabric. If the fabric is heavy, for example blackout, and the angle is significant, then the fabric can still sag. In addition, you may encounter the problem that the curtain fabric will not fall down well.

Advantages:

• Price
• Convenience
• Reliability
• Maintainability
• Possibility to install both free-hanging and cassette systems
• You can buy ready-made options in the shopping center
• Present on Aliexpress

Flaws:

• Drill the ceiling or window slope
• There is no possibility of installation on tape

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How to clean

Since most fabrics are impregnated with special dust-repellent compounds that do not allow dirt particles to penetrate into the fibers, there is no need to wash the curtains. They should be wiped periodically with a soft, dry or slightly damp cloth or soft brush. You can also vacuum using a special curtain attachment. If the mechanism is closed, the box is also wiped with a dry cloth.

If necessary, curtains can be washed, but it is recommended to do this as little as possible so as not to damage the dust-repellent coating. Before washing, the fabric must be removed from the lifting mechanism. It needs to be immersed in a bath with warm soapy water for a few minutes and lightly rubbed with a soft sponge. After this, rinse thoroughly in the shower. Do not squeeze, but let the water drain in a vertical position, then dry. Ironing should only be done if there are strong creases.

The lifting mechanism also needs care - it must be lubricated with special silicone-based lubricants (ointment or aerosol).

Repair

Most often, the auto-locking mechanism of roller blinds breaks. To solve the problem, you will need to replace the control unit. In open systems this is quite easy to do. It is more difficult with cassette ones and with those in which a spring unit is installed: they need to be almost completely disassembled and replaced. This is difficult to do at home.

If the chain breaks or jams, it must be replaced. This happens more often with low-quality plastic fittings; when buying new ones, you need to pay attention to the quality.

If the canvas itself is torn, it will be more profitable to buy a new system. This does not apply to automatic roller shutters; it is much more profitable to replace the canvas in them.

The components are sold in specialized stores, and they can also be ordered online. You can also call a repairman to your home.

Roller blinds are a modern solution for protection from the sun and light. They perfectly combine the practicality and functionality of blinds and the ability to create a cozy atmosphere that traditional fabric curtains have.

Other accessories

There are interesting accessories on the market for roller blinds. They are not necessary for the operation of the curtains, but can make them more practical. It is important to complete with the following elements:

• Decoration. The chain works thanks to the weight. It can be purchased in different shapes, colors, patterns. The decor can complement the stylish roll and decorate the window. The cost is small.
• Case for decoration. The weight can be placed in a beautiful box. Basically, a white part is selected to blend in with the window. Can be attached with standard self-tapping screws.
• A plug. Very often, creators save money and do not add this important element to the composition. This is a decoration that decorates the curtain and hides the uneven end of the weighting material. Most often the plug is sold from plastic, but aluminum or metal will also work.
• Use a handle if you choose attic curtains.
• Limiter. To ensure that the fabric is wound evenly, buy a weighting agent. This way you will control the process of winding the fabric.