Types of roller blinds.
Roles may vary by:
- type of execution;
- control method;
- type of material;
- method of fastening.
Type of execution
Conventionally, two types of execution are distinguished.
- Open – consists of a shaft, guides and a bottom bar;
An open roller blind system consists of fabric that is rolled evenly onto an open shaft, which is secured to the window using mounting brackets
The roller blind canvas is rolled up and the control mechanisms are hidden in a special box (cassette) located in the upper part of the cassette roller blind structure
Note! If the first option is well suited for decoration, then the second is more practical. It does not allow the curtain to sag, which is essential for an inclined window position.
Control method
The following control methods are available.
- Using a chain cord - a cord, which can be made of various materials, is attached to the shaft on either side and allows you to manually release and lift the curtain, as well as fix it in the required position.
Chain cord is the simplest option for adjusting the position of the blade
Important! If the window opens, the location of the cord should prevent it from getting under the sash.
- Using a spring holder – mainly used for bottom-up rollers and sun filters.
A spring holder is a convenient option for adjusting curtains, since the curtain is fixed automatically when it reaches a certain level
Important! According to user reviews, the method is unreliable. The spring weakens quite quickly and ceases to secure. Recommended for cases where there is no need for frequent adjustments.
- Using an electric drive. Control is carried out from the remote control or keys.
Electric drive is an easy way to regulate the curtain, as it rises and falls thanks to the motor
Note! Despite the fact that this option significantly increases the budget, it is indispensable for hard-to-reach windows.
Material type
Determines the ability of curtains to transmit light and is able to create a unique room design. There are several types.
- Transparent - scatters sunlight well. It is used mainly for decoration and goes well with curtains and drapes.
Transparent roller blinds do not hide the view outside the window, but allow you to soften the brightness on high floors and use natural light
The dimout curtain fabric blocks sunlight by 70% and partially diffuses the rest, creating a soft twilight
A blackout curtain can completely darken a room
In Day-Night curtain models, the curtain fabric consists of several layers of transparent and opaque material, which is lowered on both sides of the roller
The design and texture of the material are very diverse. In one of the reviews on the RuNet, a user (apparently a professional designer) reports that he counted more than 6,000 options.
A variety of ready-made roller blinds from different materials with different fabric structures
Additional information: The material must be durable, withstand temperature changes, have antistatic properties (dust protection), and be easy to clean.
Operating principle of day-night curtains
The curtain control mechanism allows you to wind two parallel layers of dense fabric containing alternating horizontal transparent and opaque stripes onto the shaft. Depending on how much they overlap each other, the brightness of the light flux changes. The rotation of the shaft and, accordingly, the throughput of the curtain is ensured by a chain mechanism.
Unlike conventional ones, such curtains are ergonomic, easy to use, and do not require washing or major cleaning.
In the “day” position, the transparent stripes of both layers are opposite each other and transmit maximum light, and in the “night” position they are completely covered by light-proof areas. If the light and dark stripes partially overlap, then the required level of illumination is established in the room from twilight to dim daylight.
Note! Curtains of different models and manufacturers may have their own design features. Therefore, before assembling them and proceeding with fastening, you should carefully read the instructions.
Advantages
There are many of them listed, very different, here are just a few:
- wide range of lighting adjustment;
- real dust-repellent ability of the material;
- ease of care;
- clear installation instructions, in most cases “in pictures”;
Installation instructions in two ways from the manufacturer
When choosing such a curtain, you can consider original color and texture solutions for a specific interior.
Flaws.
They are hard to find. Buyers hardly complain. Here's what they note:
- poor quality of installation;
- long production (delivery) time;
Features of choice.
Summarizing all the reviews and recommendations, the selection algorithm should look like this.
- Determine the purpose (protection from backlighting at night, thermal insulation, etc.).
Roller blinds are not just beautiful and stylish, but also very practical and convenient
Determining the size of the canvas depending on the type of curtain fastening
Attention! Roller blinds allow a slight reduction in width, so for non-standard windows it is advisable to purchase slightly wider finished products.
- Select the desired direction for opening the curtains “from top to bottom” or “from bottom to top”. The latter method may be required for wooden bindings with a window opening inward. Flower growers can appreciate it, and care is somewhat simpler.
Roller blinds can be controlled from top to bottom and from bottom to top; the curtains can be easily lifted due to the presence of a spring mechanism
Important! – the “top to bottom” direction in the presence of a swing window does not allow ventilating the room without fully opening the curtains.
- Select curtain material. Quality requirements were discussed above, but the defining point is transparency. The exception is the “day-night” rollers, which vary from complete transparency to blackout.
Bright roller blinds made of thick fabric, made to order
When using roller blinds, you can independently adjust the length of the curtain and the level of illumination in the room
Differences between roller blinds and Roman blinds
Buyers often believe that roller blinds and Roman blinds are the same thing. However, they are wrong. There are many differences between these curtains. The main difference is the curtain mechanism. Roller blinds, unlike Roman blinds, are wound on a shaft and completely hidden in the box (Roman blinds are visible above the cornice). Roller blinds are made from dust-repellent materials, while Roman blinds are made from ordinary textiles. Thanks to the special fabric, roller blinds do not require special care. Another difference between roller blinds is the price. Roman blinds are much more expensive due to their controls and cornice.
Exploitation
There are very few tips.
- Use detergents that do not contain chlorine or acids for cleaning. If the design allows you to remove the curtain for washing, then a thorough rinsing and drying is necessary after which no folds are formed.
- It is better not to vacuum clean (or use special attachments), but to wipe with a dry cloth. Wash with a cotton cloth. Apply a soap solution to heavily soiled areas for a while. To remove small stains, it is better to use an eraser.
- In the kitchen, it is better to roll the rolls while cooking to avoid possible contamination.
That's all.
Video: Roller blinds: pros and cons Roller blinds VS classic drapes
The living room and bedroom have windows facing the sunny side. There used to be blinds, ordinary white ones. Now we are making repairs. The windows are small, plastic. The rooms are also small, 16 sq.m. and 14 sq.m. I can't decide on roller blinds. Either “day-night” (zebra) white, or blackout (but what color.), or straw. I also want tulle and curtains.
Laboratorio Creativo di Vladimir Lamfadel
Roller blinds, tulle, drapes. Outside your window, excuse me, is there a garbage dump or something terrible that you want to close the windows like that? It might be easier to board them up. )))
And the advice is this: hang what you like and what you
. Is that a problem?
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textile design studio "Curtain Department"
If you are hanging curtains and tulle, then it is better to choose roller blinds in a neutral color in a light shade. You can choose white (to match the color of the window frames), or choose a color close to the color of the walls. For the sunny side, blackout fabrics for roller blinds are suitable if you hang light, light-transmitting curtains. If the curtains are made of dense fabric (for example: “dimout” and “blackout”), then roller blinds can be made from fabric of any density.
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How to care for curtains day and night
Manufacturers of day-night roller blinds claim that their products require minimal care, since the selection of raw materials and pre-treatment of the fabric minimize the likelihood of contamination. As a preventative cleaning, it is recommended to periodically use a dry brush or damp sponge with soapy water to remove dust. There is no need to wash the fabric. A well-installed curtain will serve faithfully for many years.
It is important to tastefully choose combinations of the right colors that will help create an indescribable atmosphere in any place.
Note! It is strictly not recommended to use various chemically active agents and preparations to clean curtain fabric day and night.
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lektra2000
“Roller blinds, tulle, drapes. Outside your window, excuse me, is there a garbage dump or something terrible that you want to close the windows like that? It might be easier to board them up. )))” - But there’s no need to be rude! And if you don't see the problem, you shouldn't bother commenting. I definitely didn’t need your advice!
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The best models of roller blinds day-night
Among the popular models of day-night roller blinds, experts note:
- Plain curtains (“Plain”, “Frost”) - these models evenly diffuse daylight and are distinguished by high-quality fabric impregnation, which provides reliable protection from dust and the accumulation of static electricity.
- “Zebra” is a classic representative of day-night systems. Sold in a wide range of colors and can be equipped with an electric drive. In the cassette version it fits as tightly as possible to the frame.
- “Nostalgia” is an original multi-color curtain, characterized by high quality fabric and actuator.
- “COMFORT Kansas” - this curtain is made of 100% polyester and provides guaranteed protection from bright light and prying eyes. Can be used both to protect the entire window opening, and for placement on individual sashes.
The sizes can be selected according to the wishes of the buyer, and the curtains themselves can be decorated with any pattern.
Types of roller blinds
Roller blinds are a type of horizontal curtains that slide upward. They are very functional and decorative , and can be an ideal solution for both small apartments and spacious houses.
Roman blinds and day-night roller blinds are subtypes of roller blinds. The first type differs from conventional roller shutters in that the fabric is not wound onto a roller, but is evenly collected when opened thanks to the transverse slats. At the same time, when lowered, such curtains have a flat surface.
Zebra or day-night curtains are a type that is a double-layer fabric design. The canvas has horizontal transparent and opaque stripes of the same width. Thanks to this combination, when lowered, the stripes alternate, which allows you to adjust the degree of lighting in the room.
Many people mistakenly believe that pleated blinds are a type of day-night roller blind. This type of curtain is a fabric that, when opened, folds like an accordion between the upper and lower curtain rods. The fabric is a solid woven or non-woven fabric, so this design is not able to regulate the degree of lighting in the room like Zebra roller blinds.
Depending on the type of design, day-night roller blinds can be:
- classic (open type);
- cassette (closed type).
Curtains for open day-night windows are a design with a roller on which thick fabric is wound. There is also a plumb line that prevents wrinkles and maintains the smooth surface of the canvas. This design can be mounted on the ceiling, wall, window frame or upper window opening. This option is more affordable than the cassette version.
Closed-type roller blinds require the presence of a box into which the fabric is rolled up. The design provides for the installation of side profiles that regulate the correct position of the curtains and help the curtain fit tightly to the window frame, without leaving gaps between them. Such roller shutters look more aesthetically pleasing due to the ability to choose the color of the frame to match the curtains.
Depending on the type of mechanical control, roller blinds use:
- chain mechanism;
- spring mechanism;
- electric drive
The simplest and most common mechanism that is installed on roller blinds is a chain mechanism. This is a regular cord that is located on any (usually the side) side of the structure. The blinds are raised and lowered manually. The chain can be made of stainless steel, plastic or polyvinyl chloride. If handled with care, this mechanism will last quite a long time.
Designs with spring holders look attractive due to the absence of additional control systems. The mechanism involves the presence of a spring connected to a shaft. The handle is located at the bottom or at the top, depending on the installation of the curtains themselves. This mechanism is lightweight; the roller shutters are automatically fixed to the required height. Another advantage is the absence of small parts, which is important in a house where there are small children. Among the disadvantages is fragility, since the springs stretch over time and become unusable.
Differences between horizontal blinds and roller blinds
Depending on the design and functionality of each product, you can choose the appropriate option.
Horizontal blinds
Horizontal blinds, unlike vertical ones, can be attached not only to the entire window opening, but also placed on each window sash separately. Which mounting method to choose depends on whether you want to have access to the window sill, or whether you want the walls and window to look like a single space.
The materials from which the lamellas are made are also varied. Wooden models look especially elegant. This option is quite expensive, but the result - an atmosphere of warmth and comfort - is worth it!
The choice of plastic blinds, which have a fairly long service life, will not hurt your pocket too much. Models with metal slats are even more reliable. Covered with a protective layer on top, they can also be made in any color suitable for the interior.
Advantages
The main advantage of blinds remains the ability to regulate light: the slats are fixed at any angle, creating the required degree of illumination. This is especially true for hot summers and rooms located on the sunny side! The angle of inclination can be adjusted so that, while maintaining the privacy of the home space, you have a sufficient overview of what is happening outside the window.
The variability in the choice of materials allows you to order blinds to suit every taste and budget. The service life of the product is extended due to the ability to replace failed parts: you can replace several broken lamellas without changing the entire structure.
It’s easy to clean and wash plastic, metal and wooden models without risking damage: they are not afraid of moisture.
IMPORTANT! When ordering wooden blinds, make sure the quality of the varnish covering them! When wiping aluminum models, handle them delicately: a thin strip can easily be crushed.
Flaws
The main disadvantage of all horizontal blinds without exception is their “ability” to attract dust to each lamella. Another “side effect” is holes from self-tapping screws on the window sashes, which remain after attaching the most advantageous-looking models of horizontal blinds. However, you can choose a free-hanging cheap option that is attached only to the top of the window opening.
Roller blinds
In terms of functionality and variety of models, this is probably the most interesting option for window decoration. They vary in texture and degree of opacity, colors and patterns, making them ideally suitable for the design of any interior.
They can be purchased ready-made and made to order, taking into account all requirements - a great opportunity to try yourself as a designer! Especially if you consider the possibility of combining them with traditional tulle curtains or velvet drapes. They are mounted both in the window opening and on the window frame, separately for each window sash. The latter method is convenient because it allows you to use a window sill, for example, to place indoor plants.
ADVICE! If you want to completely close the window opening, focus on models whose size matches the size of the window or even slightly exceeds them!
Advantages and disadvantages
More and more people are choosing day-night roller blinds. Reviews from satisfied customers confirm the practicality and aesthetics of this design.
Main advantages:
- the ability to adjust different degrees of lighting in the room;
- ease of maintenance and installation;
- durability;
- possibility of self-assembly and installation;
- variety of colors and materials;
- variety of forms, mechanisms and types.
Zebra roller blinds can create three levels of illumination:
- Complete darkness - dense stripes cover transparent ones.
- Soft, subdued light - the stripes are slightly shifted or the canvas is scrolled so that stripes of the same type coincide with each other.
- Full lighting - blinds fully or half raised.
Day-night roller shutters are made of synthetic fabric and treated with Teflon impregnation. This has a dust-repellent, antistatic and antibacterial effect, so such products are hypoallergenic and easy to care for. It is enough to wipe them with a damp cloth or vacuum cleaner.
Thanks to the simple design, assembly and installation of this type of roller blinds can be easily done independently at home.
Due to their variety of shapes, sizes and colors, Zebra roller blinds can fit perfectly into any interior. For a strict design in the minimalist style, for example, roller shutters in a single color scheme are suitable; for the Provence style, you can choose products with a pattern.
Among the disadvantages is the relatively high cost compared to other designs, since such blinds belong to the premium class. Another disadvantage is that due to the massive shaft design, the system can produce a characteristic creaking sound.
What are they made of
The roller blind material must meet a number of specific requirements. The canvas should not fade, absorb odors and moisture. In addition, special impregnations ensure its antistatic and dust-repellent properties. Very often jacquard fabrics are used as the starting material.
One of the main practical advantages of Day-Night roller blinds is that they are made from environmentally friendly materials that have a special repellent impregnation based on Teflon.
Initially, polyester was most often used for these curtains in combination with various impregnations. Today you can find such curtains based on natural fabrics.
Care Tips
Caring for fabric roller blinds is quite simple, since most products are treated with a special solution that prevents the accumulation of dirt and dust. There are two methods for cleaning blinds: dry and wet.
For daily care, it is enough to use the dry method, which involves using a clean cloth or sponge. You can also clean the canvas with a vacuum cleaner using a special attachment.
Wet cleaning should be carried out periodically. To do this, you can use a mild detergent that does not contain chlorine. It is not always necessary to remove fabric roller shutters for cleaning, but after wet care, the curtains should be completely dry when unrolled.
For significant stains, you can use a stain remover based on natural ingredients. Under no circumstances should you rub, wrinkle or squeeze the fabric too hard, as such actions can lead to deformation of the product.