Conventional fabric curtains do not always fit into modern interior design. Increasingly, they began to be replaced with blinds, which not only look beautiful on the windows, but also reliably isolate the room from bright sunlight and annoying moonlight. If previously blinds were used mainly in offices, today they can be seen everywhere: in city apartments, private houses, and dachas. Window shutters, consisting of lightweight and durable slats, have earned great popularity due to their versatility, ease of care and use. Correctly chosen designs can be a wonderful addition to the decor of the room, so you need to buy them wisely.

For large windows, it is better to install electric blinds.

What are the best blinds to buy? This question is often asked by people who are faced with their choice for the first time. Blinds are distinguished by type, material, color scheme, texture. In order for homeowners to like the new window frames, they need to familiarize themselves in detail with how some product models differ from others. By type, blinds are divided into horizontal, in which the slats are located across the window, and vertical, which are plates placed along window openings. For the manufacture of modern designs Various materials are used, among which the greatest demand is plastic, fabric, wood, and aluminum. The color and texture of blinds should be chosen taking into account the design of the room in which they will be located.

Horizontal and vertical designs

Plastic and aluminum blinds are easy to maintain and are the most affordable.

Horizontal blinds appeared much earlier than vertical ones. Most often they are used in office premises, as they perfectly complement the strict business style of the interior. However, even in living rooms horizontal slats look great. To create a cozy atmosphere in the room, designers recommend complementing them with curtains. Most design models do not absorb foreign odors, are not afraid of temperature changes, high humidity and direct sunlight, so they can be used to shade any room. The customer can independently choose the width of the blinds (it can be 1.6, 2.5 and 5 cm) and the method of their installation (in the window opening or between the frames). Horizontal shutters have a mechanism that is controlled using a special remote control. Such models fold upward, which is not always convenient. When choosing horizontal models, you should always remember that the shading plates on the window should look proportional to the room. In small rooms you should not install blinds with wide slats, and in large rooms - with narrow slats.

Vertical blinds can also be used both in offices and in residential premises. They are made from durable materials and serve their owners for many years. Using longitudinally installed plates, you can regulate the amount of sunlight penetrating the room. When choosing vertical structures you need to take into account that their slats come in two sizes (8.9 and 12.7 cm). It is appropriate to order shutters with wide stripes for spacious rooms, and narrow ones for medium and small ones. Put away vertical blinds It is very simple to remove from the window; to do this, you need to move them to the side or from the edges to the center using a special mechanism. The shutter plates are mounted on a durable aluminum cornice and can be replaced individually if damaged. When choosing between horizontal and vertical blinds, you need to consider that the latter option is more durable.

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Advantages of plastic and fabric blinds

Natural cotton blinds are environmentally friendly, but they deteriorate when washed.

When choosing blinds for windows, you must pay attention to the material from which they are made. The most common option is plastic slats. Among their positive qualities is that they:

• perfectly harmonizes with any interior;
• V horizontal version can be combined with tulle and curtains;
• hold their shape well, do not bend or deform from mechanical stress;
• easy to clean and wash;
• are not electrified.

All of the above advantages apply only to high-quality plastic. Lamels made from cheap material do not have such qualities. Having opted for plastic blinds for windows, you need to remember that you cannot place them near heat sources, otherwise they will quickly become unusable.

Fabric blinds are made from polyester, jacquard, cotton, and fiberglass. The products are presented in a wide range of shades and textures, so they can be matched even to the most exquisite interior. When buying blinds made of fabric, you need to pay attention to its density: slats made of thin cloth will fade faster in the sun and lose their shape when washed. Strips made from thick fabric, will retain a decent appearance longer. The degree of illumination of the room also depends on the thickness of the material, so to darken rooms facing the sunny side, you need to take thick fabric. If problems arise with the choice of material for the lamellas, then you should consider that:

• strips made of polyester are the most durable, they do not wrinkle, do not deform, do not fade or shrink when washed, and are cheaper than other types of fabric blinds;
• jacquard blinds will transform any room with their luxurious appearance; they do not fade in the sun and do not shrink when washed;
• fiberglass structures are highly fireproof and moisture resistant, so they are ideal for the kitchen and bathroom, however, this product is very expensive and Russian market is rare.

The cloth used to make strips for blinds is impregnated with a special dust-repellent solution, so that they do not absorb dust. Fabric slats can be washed by hand in warm water with the addition of a small amount of washing powder, having previously disconnected them from the mechanism. You should wash strips made of natural cotton with care, as they shrink (to prevent such blinds from becoming too short after washing, they should be ordered with a margin of 5-10 cm). The washed slats are attached to the cornice while wet and dried in a vertical position. When purchasing fabric structures for windows, you need to understand that a cheap product will not serve its owners for long, so it is better to choose high-quality shutters at a decent price.

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Aluminum, wood and bamboo blinds: pros and cons

Aluminum blinds coated with heat-resistant enamel reliably protect the room from bright light and prying eyes, they look great on the windows. The following advantages of aluminum lamellas can be mentioned:

Bamboo blinds are not suitable for rooms with high humidity.

• ease of maintenance and durability;
• a wide range of colors, allowing you to choose blinds for any interior;
• affordable price;
• possibility of choosing vertical and horizontal designs.

The disadvantage of aluminum slats is that they rattle when exposed to a draft. However, when closed windows no one will have problems with them.

Designs for windows with wooden plates fit perfectly into a country-style interior. They will look great on the window either in combination with curtains or as an independent decorative item. Such blinds are made from valuable types of wood (usually Cork tree or Canadian linden) and are not cheap, but the high price will fully pay for them high quality. Wooden blinds not only give the room a special flavor, but also have many advantages over other types window designs, among which:

Variants of blinds models.

• environmental friendliness;
• hypoallergenic ( natural wood does not cause allergic reactions, therefore, interior items made from it can be safely used in rooms where allergy sufferers and small children live);
• enough wide range shades (from light beech to mahogany);
• durability;
• strength;
• ease of care;
• reliable protection from the sun (if necessary, they can be used to completely shade the room);
• resistance to ultraviolet radiation due to special coating.

When deciding to decorate a window with wooden slats, you need to take into account that they are not suitable for rooms with high levels of humidity, since wood is not moisture resistant.

One more natural material The material from which blinds are made today is bamboo. According to the main characteristics, bamboo slats can be compared with wooden ones. A bamboo window structure will look harmonious in a room designed in the spirit of minimalism. Such blinds are not afraid of moisture, so they can be safely used in bathrooms, kitchens, balconies and attics.

The impressive practicality of plastic windows has allowed them to gain wide popularity. And if you also know how to choose blinds of a suitable design for modern frames, then you don’t have to worry about the functional properties and attractive appearance of the window. High-quality sun protection systems should not only fit into the design of the room and protect from light, but also not interfere with the constant use of the sashes.

The main advantages of installing sun protection structures on plastic frames

Attaching blinds directly to plastic windows has an impressive list of advantages that provide easy operation and low wear rate of all elements.

• The canvas, which acts as a curtain, is attached to the sash. This allows all structural elements to be used separately and independently of each other.
• There is no need to raise the blinds to open or close the window.
• Whatever options are chosen (except for the “exotic” “vertical”), you can achieve a tight fit of the canvas to the glass surface. This arrangement allows you to get free space on the windowsill.
• If you choose special fastenings, then when the sash is in ventilation mode or when decorating dormer window there will be no such problem as sagging of the canvas. This will prevent the slats from deforming.
• Blinds that are attached to plastic frames, create a single composition with the window, this allows you to use curtains or curtains as additional element and do not overload the image.
• The designs provide a high degree of control over the level of illumination in the room.

Another undeniable dignity systems - you can choose any type of control of the canvas and lamellas. This point must be thought through in advance, as it will affect the installation method of the product.

Related article: Proper storage of lumber

Popular types of blinds for plastic windows

It’s worth noting right away that not all types of blinds are mounted on plastic windows. The vertical option will have to be abandoned. Mounting the product close to the glass surface will make it difficult for the slats to rotate and make it impossible to adjust the lighting.

Other types of products are best suited for plastic frames.

• Horizontal classic designs. The simplest and most common decor option. The main advantages are practicality, ease of installation and operation. There is a type of construction that is located inside the glass unit. This allows you to save space as much as possible and minimize the need to maintain the slats. Whatever materials are used, you can choose a reliable type of fastening.
• Roller blinds. The most convenient and practical option. The use of guides allows you to achieve maximum adherence of the canvas to the window. This not only provides complete control over the illumination of the room, but also prevents sagging of the structure with a specific position of the sashes or the attic location of the window. The canvas is made from a material coated with a special impregnation with antistatic, grease- and dirt-repellent properties. The structures take up minimal space, are easy to maintain, and very attractive. Can be attached to plastic frames without drilling.
• Pleated curtains. Original variety roller blinds, which is characterized by increased versatility and functionality. Such systems can be installed on both large and very small window openings. The material is assembled into elegant and graceful folds like an accordion and can be used in a room decorated in any stylistic direction. The materials from which such curtains are made are lightweight, which allows them to be mounted on plastic frames without the risk of deformation and collapse of the frame.

For arched windows, pleated windows are the best solution. No other type of sun protection structure will provide such an exact match to the shape of the opening.

What should you pay attention to when buying blinds for plastic windows?

Before choosing blinds, you need to know something about the characteristics of the materials from which they are made.

• Polyester products get dirty quite quickly and intensively absorb moisture from the environment.
• Jacquard looks very attractive, but such curtains can “shrink” and change significantly in appearance after just a few washes or dry cleanings.
• Plastic slats are easy to maintain, low maintenance, resistant to deformation and do not absorb unpleasant odors. All of the above advantages cover such a factor as cheaper appearance compared to other materials.
• Wood is the most expensive material available, which is distinguished by its attractive appearance, environmental friendliness and long service life. The disadvantages of wood blinds include factors such as significant weight (not all plastic frames can handle this) and a tendency to accumulate moisture.
• Metal slats are practically not subject to deformation and do not fade under sunlight. Before choosing such a solution, it is necessary to estimate the weight of the system. Another disadvantage of metal strips is the pronounced noise effect.

Anton Tsugunov

Reading time: 14 minutes

Blinds - a worthy alternative to traditional fabric curtains, drapes and curtains. They not only allow you to adjust the lighting of the room, but also serve as an effective addition to the interior. Tips on which blinds you can choose for plastic windows will be useful to everyone.

INTERESTING FACTS!

• Blinds were invented back in the Middle Ages by cunning and jealous men of the East. At home, their wives did not wear a burqa, which meant that passers-by could see the woman’s face through the window. And these curtains let in daylight, leaving the space of the room invisible to prying eyes.
• In 1841, the ingenious invention was refined and patented in England. From this moment it began industrial production and the spread of blinds in America and Europe.

Which blinds to choose, vertical or horizontal?

There are two options for blinds: horizontal and vertical. They differ in the way the slats are attached and moved.

In the first option, the rotating strips are located horizontally, parallel to the window sill. The width of the lamellas is from 16 mm to 25 mm. Such a curtain can be partially or completely raised to the top of the window frame.

Horizontal blinds are fixed to PVC windows in two ways:

1. Hanging: mounted above the window, like ordinary curtains.
2. Attic: fixing a plastic window on each sash allows you to open or close the window without interference.

Models with vertical slats are popular among designers for two reasons:

• there is no danger of individual lamellas sagging;
• There are different ways of moving the canvas: it can be moved to one side of the window opening or moved apart from the center of the window to two sides. Modern models are equipped with an electric drive.

The vertical type of blinds sometimes serves as a hanging screen for zoning an apartment or room. For supporting correct form each lamella can be equipped with a lower weight.

Classic, roll, cassette or pleated?

Horizontal blinds are divided into several types, each of which deserves attention.

Classic

Horizontal (Venetian) blinds – classic version. They consist of several dozen thin slats fastened together. Strong cords connect the individual strips in such a way that they can rotate freely around their own axis.

This design has many advantages:

• Stability: slats are made of dense materials, so the entire system remains motionless even with moderate gusts of wind.
• Aesthetics: a variety of colors allows the product to become a full-fledged decorative element of the interior. Sometimes a pattern is applied to the slats, which is visible in the fully open or closed position (see photo).

• Functionality: Using the controls you can adjust the amount of daylight penetration. Individual lamellas can be in three positions: closed with edges - complete shading, inclined position - partial shading, the planes of the lamellas are strictly parallel to each other - maximum illumination.
• High performance: such curtains are durable and preserve original appearance and shape even with changes in temperature and humidity.

• Hygiene: horizontal blinds do not absorb dust, although they accumulate it on the surface of the slats. Therefore, housewives are advised to wipe the product several times a month with a damp cloth or powder puff, or collect dust with a vacuum cleaner.

A special brush that grips both sides of the lamella at once will help maintain cleanliness. If heavily soiled, you can remove and soak the blinds in a soapy solution. Or, without removing them from the window, spray detergent from a spray bottle on the surface completely closed blinds. Then rinse clean water and wipe dry with a rag.

This model of light-protection systems is specially created for modern plastic windows and takes into account all their features. Cassette blinds have several advantages over the classic version:

• When the curtain is raised, the curtain is hidden and compactly placed in a small cassette located at the top of the window opening.

• A completely retracted canvas opens up the view from the window and does not obstruct the access of sunlight.
• The curtain assembled in a cassette does not get dirty and does not accumulate dust.
• All operations (raising, lowering, rotating the slats) are performed using one chain.
• Side guide strings stabilize the slats when raising/lowering the blade.

In roll-up light protection systems, the main moving part is the fabric sheet.

With the help of control elements, it is wound onto a strong axis, which is located in the upper part of the window opening. By installing and fixing the canvas at a certain height, you can regulate the degree of illumination in the room. The whole variety of roller blinds is presented in.

Pleated blinds are made from specially deformed (smoothed) by machine panels of fabric or thick paper. They are relatively cheap, practical and compact. Can be mounted on window openings of unusual shapes.

We select the material (plastic, fabric, wood, bamboo, aluminum)

Plastic blinds are made from PVC or UV polymer. They contain substances that resist exposure to direct sunlight. Most often they are white, but may have different colors or imitate other materials (natural wood, metal or textiles). Decorators use curtains with photo prints or patterns to decorate rooms.

Aluminum blinds are more durable than plastic sunshade systems. Sometimes the slats are coated with a polymer layer that imitates wood.

Interesting are the perforated aluminum models, which create a pleasant atmosphere in the room. Even with the slats completely closed, they allow some light to pass through the small holes. But you need to keep in mind that the material heats up, so you shouldn’t hang them on the sunny side of the apartment.

Beautiful fabric blinds, reminiscent of ordinary curtains, are made of polyester, jacquard or fiberglass. Compared to plastic or aluminum, they have wider lamellas, impregnated with compounds that repel moisture and dirt, and increase resistance to fading.

The very first models had wooden slats ranging from 3 cm to 15 cm in width horizontal blinds. The individual lamellas were connected and assembled together using ropes or narrow ribbons. Wooden models are highly valued by decorators. These light-protection systems add solidity to any room, be it a living room or a bedroom, and go well with furniture and small design elements.

Wooden slats are coated with compounds that protect them from destruction and fading. Blinds made of this material can only be maintained dry (sweep or wipe with a brush).

Light and thin light-protection systems made of bamboo are compact and take up very little space when folded. Bamboo slats allow light to pass through even in a completely closed (strictly vertical) position. The golden yellow color creates the illusion of a sunny day indoors.

But it is undesirable to use systems made of this material to cover large window openings. Bamboo is elastic, which means the slats can bend under their own weight.

To choose blinds, in addition to appearance, you need to pay attention to several important parameters, which include:

• Design. The area of ​​space required for installation will depend on it.
• Control type. Manual (mechanical) control using a rotating cane and rope is used in blinds installed on small windows. Convenient to use for large structures automatic control using an electric motor, which is activated by a button on the remote control. The most modern models controlled remotely, equipped with photosensitive sensors and timers.
• Model weight. The stronger Basic structure, the heavier the blinds can be.
• The number of positions in which the slats can be fixed.
• Environmental friendliness - the level of noise generated, the absence of harmful additives released into the air.
• Aesthetics – resistance to fading, deformation of individual lamellas, duration of preservation of the original shape of the product.

To the bedroom

The bedroom is a place of rest and relaxation, where there should be no harsh tones, loud or unpleasant sounds. Therefore, practically silent fabric blinds (roller, pleated) of horizontal and vertical designs are most appropriate here.

Models made from natural materials (cotton, jacquard) are suitable for the bedroom. Often fabric slats are impregnated with a special solution, which makes the fabric completely impenetrable to light.

To the kitchen

Practical horizontal blinds made of plastic are suitable for the kitchen: they do not absorb odors, are not afraid of humidity and temperature changes, and are easy to clean.

If you want interesting colors and texture, you can choose a fabric option. Due to impregnation, such blinds will not absorb odors, grease and moisture. And curtains with photo printing can become the main accent of the kitchen.

Aluminum models are appropriate in a high-tech kitchen. But we must not forget that they heat up in the sun and rattle in a draft.

You can save space on the kitchen window sill by installing cassette blinds, which are completely assembled into the upper cassette.

The classic white color of the blinds allows you to notice and remove dirt in a timely manner and harmonizes with kitchen appliances and furniture. This design looks neat and fresh and perfectly complements modern styles: minimalism, contemporary, .

For a loggia or balcony

For a loggia, which often serves as a complete and cozy room for work or relaxation, there are also rules for selecting blinds.

• For aluminum and sliding frames, only hinged structures are suitable, preferably with vertical slats. For casement windows, choose horizontal models with sash mounting.

• For the south side it is better to choose curtains made of thick fabric; for the north side, light translucent designs are suitable.

• On small balcony Short models with an attic type of fastening look better.

• Curtains with wooden slats are combined with plants and outdoor furniture, are resistant to gusts of wind, create a comfortable environment, and fit into any style.

• Bamboo blinds are good for a balcony in eco- or ethnic style, chalet, oriental.

How to choose the right size blinds for plastic windows

The dimensions of the product will depend on the method of fastening the light protection system.

Horizontal

Dimensions for horizontal models:

1. For a window sash: the width of the blinds should be 30 mm less than the width of the glass, and their length should be 1.5–2 cm shorter than the height of the window opening.
2. In the window opening: the dimensions of the blinds are the same as in the first option, but you need to take into account the protruding upper cornice of the structure, which can rest against the slopes. Openings are not always level, so it is better to take measurements at several points.
3. Instead of a window cornice, on the wall: the width of the structure is 10–15 cm wider than the window opening, the length is arbitrary.

Horizontal systems can be mounted in a hinged manner, covering the entire window opening. And in order to completely free up the window sill space, you need to install them using drilling on each window sash. It is desirable that the model have a side hole, and the individual lamellas are fastened with a metal string or nylon fishing line. Such fastening will tightly tension the canvas on the sashes and prevent unnecessary movements (chattering) of the slats when opening/closing the window.

Advice from Mr. Build: you should not buy or order horizontal blinds with slats longer than 2 meters. Such long strips begin to bend under their own weight. Often, for horizontal structures, a lower clamp is installed, which prevents the blinds from sagging.

The side fixation of cassette horizontal blinds is much neater, making it almost invisible. The canvas of this model fits tightly to the glass, which ensures more complete and reliable protection from light.

Vertical

Dimensions of the vertical structure:

1. In a window opening: subtract 2 cm from the width of the opening, and 1 cm from the length. These will be the dimensions of the mounted curtain.
2. In place of the cornice, on the wall: the width of the product should exceed the width of the window opening by 10–15 cm, the length should be arbitrary. But a window sill covered with blinds looks more aesthetically pleasing.
3. On the ceiling: the length is chosen arbitrarily (to the window sill or almost to the floor), the width of the blinds is 10–15 cm greater than the width of the window opening.

Vertical blinds are rarely used for small windows: wide slats (89–127 mm) are located close to the glass, which makes them difficult to rotate.

Which blinds are better? Manufacturers rating

1. "Cosiness".
2. "Escar."
3. Sunlight.
4. Gira.
5. Kauffort.
6. Isolit.
7. "Verend-Design".
8. Redi Shade.
9. JANG.
10. Penie.

How much do blinds cost?

The cost of specific models of blinds is influenced by the price of the material from which the slats are made (type of wood, type of plastic, quality of fabric), and the complexity of the control mechanism (type of control).

Blinds made by individual order, can be of unusual shape, combine several materials (multi-texture) or colors.

They were considered an indispensable attribute of offices and other public places, but that’s all. Boring colors and minimal design variations made them unattractive for decoration home interior. However, everything has changed. New modifications are practical, functional and beautiful, so they are worthy of taking a place in any home. Let's look at what types of window blinds there are.

Why are they so popular?

The microclimate in the room largely depends on the weather outside. The bright sun can literally heat up a room in minutes, raising the temperature to uncomfortable levels. This is especially noticeable in the summer, when there is nowhere to hide from the heat. Once upon a time, the only salvation from bright rays was. But today there are slat systems that are more functional. Their strengths include:

• Possibility of adjusting the intensity of the light flux.
• Light weight and compact.
• Easy to use and maintain.
• A good choice various variations.

Regardless of the type of system, they protect the room not only from the sun, but also from drafts, as well as from overly prying eyes.

Varieties of design

The name blinds hides a group of mechanisms that differ in their operating principles. Let's look at the pros and cons of each.

Horizontal

The lamellas covering the glass are located horizontally and are attached to the top bar. Thanks to this, the system is universal. It is variable in size and can be used for inclined ones. Among the advantages we note:

• Several mounting methods.
• They take up little space.
• For their manufacture they can be used various materials.
• The ability to change the angle of rotation of the lamellas and raise them to the desired height. This allows you to effectively regulate the intensity of the light flux.

Disadvantages include less strength than vertical analogues. Therefore, the dimensions of horizontal products are limited. If they are too long, there is a high probability of deformation and problems when moving the slats.

Cassette products are considered a type of horizontal products. They were developed for installation on plastic windows. Inside the compact cassette, which is attached directly to the sash, there are unique lamellas made of plastic or fabric. IN open form they completely cover the opening. Several positions are possible when the glass is only slightly open.

Some similarities between the cassettes sometimes cause confusion. They are also mistakenly classified as horizontal structures. But that's not true. The operating principle is completely different. If we compare which is better, blinds or, it is clearly visible that the first option regulates the intensity much more effectively natural light. Rotating the slats allows you to quickly find the optimal position, while the curtains can only be opened completely or partially.

Vertical

System of vertically located lamellas, top part which are attached to the cornice. The lower part is assembled onto a guide. The width and length of the structure can be very different. Its advantages include:

• Durability and strength.
• Easy to maintain and operate.
• Effective regulation of light levels by changing the angle of rotation of the slats.
• Possibility of fixing in openings of different, even the most complex shapes.
• Variety of designs.

There are few disadvantages, but they still exist. The main thing is that for the manufacture vertical system Only fabric can be used. True, different types.

Installation methods

Depending on the type of system, it may be fixed different ways. Horizontal varieties can be installed:

• into the opening;
• on the sash;
• on the wall.

In the first two cases, the slats should be slightly wider than casement or frame. When mounted on a wall, their width will be 12-15 cm larger than the opening. Optimal length- slightly less than the height of the opening, so that the product does not “lay” on.

Vertical varieties are attached:

• into the opening;
• on the wall;
• on the ceiling.

The first two options are almost similar in size to their horizontal counterparts. The system mounted on the wall should be at least 12-15 cm wider than the opening, more is possible. Length varies. In some cases, slats are chosen that reach almost to the floor.

Which blinds are best to choose based on the characteristics of the material?

Various materials can be used to make planks. Most often just one, but a combination of two or even several is also possible. Such multi-textured products are very impressive. For the production of planks choose:

Plastic

Great choice for rooms with difficult operating conditions: high humidity, temperature changes, etc. Well suited for loggias, bathrooms and kitchens. Plastic products lightweight, moisture resistant and durable. They are very easy to care for. The design of the lamellas can be very different. Plastic is easy to paint and can be applied to various textures. Poor quality plastic may yellow, break or become deformed.

Metal

This is usually aluminum or its alloys. Lightweight, inexpensive, resistant to moisture and high temperatures, planks were once indispensable in offices and production. Nowadays it is better to choose such blinds for the kitchen or for glazed balcony. Can be picked up original models with perforation or a special velvety coating. Aluminum plates can become deformed and make unpleasant noises, but these are, perhaps, all their disadvantages.

Tree

Elite option for living rooms and bedrooms in classic style. Beautiful, respectable and durable. The lamellas are environmentally friendly, hold their shape well, and are easy to care for. The disadvantages of wood plates depend on the raw material. Inexpensive wood can break and fade. In any case, the tree is “threatened” by fluctuations in humidity. In short, without special treatment and regular maintenance, the slats can dry out or deteriorate from moisture.

Textile

Versatile, practical and beautiful. The big advantage of the material is that it can be used various canvases:

• Polyester. UV-resistant, dense, does not shrink. It is easy to care for.
• Fiberglass fabric. It is characterized by increased strength, does not deform or shrink, and does not burn.
• Cotton. , has an attractive appearance. It is worth choosing only the densest varieties so that the lamellas do not become deformed. Close to it in properties is flax, another natural material. Both may shrink when washed.
• Jacquard. Fabric made from synthetic or mixed threads with a special dense weave. According to reviews, they protect better than others from sunlight and provide maximum darkness.

There is no need to be afraid of “rag” structures. All of them are necessarily treated with impregnations that repel dust, moisture, and dirt. Therefore, caring for them is extremely simple. This is dry cleaning for cotton or linen and wet cleaning for everything else. Polyester or fiberglass can easily even be washed in a machine.

How to choose blinds for plastic windows

PVC frames are strong and durable, so there are no restrictions on choice. Moreover, some types of systems, for example, cassette systems, are designed specifically for them. You can make your choice in five steps:

1. We determine the type of structure. Vertical ones take up more space, other varieties are more compact.
2. We choose the material. It can be anything for horizontal models.
3. We determine the installation method, it depends on the type of mechanism.
4. Choosing a control method. The simplest is mechanical, using a chain, rope or cane. There are models controlled remotely. They are more convenient.
5. We select the color of the product. Choosing a shade of lamellas to match the walls or furniture can be considered a win-win. Contrasting colors - unusual solution, possible only for interiors in neutral colors.

Thus, you can quite easily choose blinds for plastic windows.

What to consider when purchasing

To ensure that the product does not disappoint and is useful, you need to check it before purchasing. We definitely try to close/open the plates. The mechanism should operate smoothly, without snagging or jerking. We carefully examine closed design. The planks should fit tightly against each other, without gaps or large cracks.

We check how easily the lamellas rotate around their axis and how they are fixed in different positions. We pay attention to the quality of processing of the material, whatever it may be. Metal and plastic must be evenly painted, without scratches, chips, etc. In any case, nothing should spoil the attractive appearance of the product.

We told you how to choose blinds that will not only become a functional element. Their design is very diverse. It doesn’t matter whether the simplest and most unpretentious option or the original designer one is chosen, all models are practical and easy to use.

Over the more than long history of its existence - about seven hundred years - blinds have not lost their popularity and even continue to occupy a leading position. Over the long period of their existence, blinds have undergone significant changes and differ from the first samples. Now there are a large number of blinds, differing in shape, type, and material. Blinds can be combined and combine several different materials. But they all perform their main function - they protect the room from the exhausting sun during the day and prying eyes at night.

Types of blinds

There is such a wide range of products on the market that it is impossible to understand without preparation. Each type protective cloth has its own characteristics, strengths and weak sides. The following types of blinds can be distinguished:

• horizontal;
• vertical;
• roll;
• cassette;
• roller;
• pleated;
• aluminum;
• wooden;
• fabric.

You can also distinguish three groups of blinds depending on the degree of sun protection:

• light-absorbing;
• light scattering;
• reflective.

Benefits of blinds

Constructions of this type are becoming more and more popular and this can be explained by high levels of efficiency and attractiveness; window blinds can transform any, even the most primitive, appearance of a room. The ability to regulate the operation of such structures allows you to shade the room if desired or open it to light. Having systematized the capabilities of protective curtains, the following advantages of using slats are highlighted:

• effectiveness in protecting the room from sunlight or prying eyes;
• functionality;
• space saving;
• wide choice of assortment: material, design;
• ease of care.

Blinds can visually enlarge a room, make it lighter, more harmonious and comfortable.

How to choose blinds

Quite recently, curtains made of fabric and tulle were in every home and it was they who protected the windows, but nowadays in apartments with modern design such curtains are found less and less often. Blinds have become popular and their variety allows you to choose high-quality and stylish ones that harmonize with the interior of your home. They are used due to their functionality, ease of maintenance, and beautiful appearance.

The choice of protective elements for plastic windows must be taken with great responsibility. Curtains should not just be bought, but matched to the interior, color scheme of the room and general style. Also, you should not purchase curtains for which it is recommended to drill plastic profile. No matter how carefully such work is carried out, it will ruin the integrity of the canvas.

To choose a specific sample, you need to understand how they differ existing models and what is the advantage of each of them.

According to the location of the slats, curtains are divided into two types:

• vertical;
• horizontal.

The material from which the product is made may vary, but the most popular are plastic, fabric, aluminum, and wood.

When choosing a design for protecting windows, decide what you need by answering the following questions:

• designs of what direction would you like to purchase;
• what material should the blinds be made of?
• what size, width of panels;
• what is the desired texture of your future protective curtains;
• what color would you like to purchase.

Horizontal blinds for plastic windows

Vertical blinds appeared much later than horizontal ones. Horizontal ones are most often used in government buildings because they give the room a strict and businesslike style. But the versatility of such curtains lies in the fact that classic kitchens, and in modern bedrooms they look great. But to create a cozy atmosphere in private homes, designers advise adding fabric curtains.

Blinds, the vast majority of them, do not absorb unpleasant odors and tolerate temperature differences, high humidity and direct sunlight. This allows you to close any room.

When installing blinds of this design, you can choose the method of installing the plates:

• in a window opening;
• between frames.

Determine the width of the design plates:

• one and a half centimeters;
• two and a half centimeters;
• five centimeters.

You can control the blinds using the remote control.

The main thing when buying horizontal blinds is not to forget about proportionality: small rooms Blinds with narrow slats are installed, in large and spacious ones - with wide ones.

Vertical blinds for plastic windows

Vertical blinds can be used in rooms of any type and style. Such designs are durable, practical and stylish. Thanks to the longitudinally located plates, it is possible to regulate the degree of sunlight transmitted inside.

When choosing vertical blinds, you must take into account that they have two slat widths - nine and twelve and a half centimeters. This must be taken into account when installing in rooms. Designs with wide plates will look harmonious in large spacious rooms.

Removing curtains from the surface of windows is very simple; just move them to the side using a special mechanism.

Curtains of this design are more practical and durable, since in the event of a breakdown of any of the structural elements, the part can be easily replaced with a new one.

Vertical designs are suitable for any room. They consist of the following main parts:

• cornice - it can be plastic or aluminum, the latter option is preferable, as it is much stronger and more reliable;
• lamellas or strips come in two types: wide and narrow;
• runners - help to open and close the structure;
• weights - protect the panels from deformation, there are three types of weights;
• connecting chain for mounting panels at the bottom of the structure, the quality of the part can be recognized by its shade, the lighter the element, the better the quality;
• control mechanism - for turning the lamella, moving and extending the elements.

Blinds for windows made of plastic and fabric

If you decide to install blinds, decide on the material from which the curtains will be made. Plastic lamellas are the leaders among other options, as they:

• suitable for any style of premises;
• made in a horizontal position are combined with fabric curtains;
• do not undergo deformation under physical influence;
• easy to clean;
• are not electrified.

But we should not forget that plastic does not tolerate high temperatures, therefore place plastic curtains in close proximity to heat sources is not recommended.

Fabric blinds can be of this type:

• polyester;
• jacquard;
• cotton;
• fiberglass.

Fabric curtains can be of different densities; there is no need to save money here. Product from thin material It will fade faster in the sun, and when stripped, it will lose its shape. Also, the density of the material affects the ability to retain light; if it is necessary to close windows facing south, it is advisable to choose a dense material.

When choosing among a variety of fabric lamella materials, do not forget that:

• polyester strips last the longest, do not wrinkle or bend, do not lose shape and color during washing, the price of such blinds is lower than other options;
• natural fabrics are recognized as environmentally friendly, but they often “shrink” during washing and do not respond well to dry cleaning;
• jacquard curtains will add sophistication to the room; items made from this material do not deteriorate in the sun or during cleaning;
• Fiberglass structures are the optimal solution for bathrooms and kitchens; they are moisture-repellent and fireproof.

Often people refuse to purchase fabric blinds, citing the fact that they will quickly become dusty, lose their appearance and cause allergic diseases. In fact, each strip of the structure is impregnated with a dust-repellent solution and does not absorb dust.

To wash fabric blinds, you need to detach the slats and wash them with your hands without using force. Dry the strips in a vertical position.

When buying fabric structures, do not try to buy the most inexpensive ones; it is better to buy high-quality, reliable things that will last for some time and will not lose their appearance after the first wash.

Advantages and disadvantages of blinds made of aluminum, bamboo, wood

Aluminum blinds can be used in the kitchen, close to fire sources, as they are covered special means, fireproof enamel. Among the advantages of such structures are the following:

• ease of maintenance;
• wide range color palette structures;
• optimal cost of goods;
• choice of lamella arrangement: horizontal or vertical.

Among the inconveniences created aluminum blinds, you can note what they publish unpleasant sounds on when air moves in a draft.

Wooden structures suitable for interiors in modern and country style. They look organic on their own or in combination with curtains. The material for blinds is valuable trees; they are not cheap, but very practical and durable. Wooden structures enjoy well-deserved recognition:

• environmentally friendly material;
• non-allergenic, does not cause allergies, is safe for allergy sufferers;
• presented in a wide range of colors;
• long service life;
• ease of care;
• protection from bright sun;
• a special coating protects the room from ultraviolet radiation.

But when large quantities positive aspects, we should not forget that wood is not a moisture-resistant material, and in a room where humidity levels are even slightly higher than normal, it is not recommended to use such structures.

As for bamboo structures, they have similar characteristics to wooden blinds, but bamboo curtains are not afraid of moisture and can be installed in rooms with high humidity: bathrooms, loggias, laundry rooms.

How to care for blinds

To ensure that the structure does not lose its appearance, it is necessary to properly care for it. Some types of coatings are easy to care for, while others require more careful attention. Plastic structures Easy to clean with warm soapy water and dry without problems. Wooden and fiberglass need only dry cleaning and react extremely negatively to wet cleaning their surfaces. All these nuances should be taken into account so that the item is not damaged by improper care. Fabric ones are the most demanding and demanding to care for:

• before starting cleaning, remove fabric fragments;
• remove all additional structures;
• each strip must be rolled into a loose roll and placed in a gauze bag;
• Place all strips in a container of soapy water;
• It is forbidden to rub or wrinkle the material, it should simply be immersed in water;
• after five to ten minutes, immerse the bags in clean water and give the strips the opportunity to lie in the water and rinse;
• take out the strips and immediately, without allowing them to dry, put them in their place;
• under the weight components the slats will take their shape.

You need to approach the issue of choosing lamellas responsibly. If you choose blinds without taking into account the features of the room, then not only will they not become a decoration of the house, but they will also look ridiculous. Among the advice from experts on choosing blinds, the following should be highlighted:

• for small rooms, light structures should be installed - this will visually make the room larger and give it a touch of coziness;
• in spacious rooms with large windows, it is more advisable to use dark shades of blinds;
• when choosing a color, you need to take into account the purpose of the room; for children's rooms and bedrooms it is recommended to use light, delicate colors; for living rooms and kitchens you can use bright materials;
• when choosing the type of blinds, it is necessary to choose the correct length of the product - it is better to entrust this important matter to a specialist who will measure the window openings and take into account all the details;
• When purchasing designs, you need to pay attention Special attention the mechanism is working properly, the plates should open and close smoothly, simultaneously, without jerking;
• buying a product at a very low price, such a purchase will bring short-term joy, and then the problems that accompany cheap goods will appear.

The structures are installed in two options:

• in a window opening;
• on the window opening.

In a window opening, the height of the structure should be two centimeters less than the height of the window opening. Such an installation will only be possible with perfectly level window sills, otherwise the blinds will look unaesthetic.

On a window opening, the width of the structure should be four to five centimeters greater than the width of the window. Among the wide variety of blinds, everyone can choose those that will suit a particular home, match their style and preferences. If you have questions about what types of blinds there are, how to choose the most suitable ones. What are the main selection criteria, watch the video after the article. It describes in detail the features of each type of blinds, the advantages and disadvantages of each type of design.