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Background to Window Blinds

Blinds are both old-fashioned and modern. There have had blinds in homes for several hundred years. But over time the technology and styles of blinds have changed, so there have always been new, modern blinds. At the same time, many older types of blind remain practical and have an old-school classic decor appeal.

There are two main reasons why blinds remain popular. One is that the general concept of the blind is so useful. A covering for the window to block light and allow privacy. We all need this from time to time. The second reason is that there is a lot of variation within this basic concept, so there can be many different types of blinds, with more possible types for the future.

Window Blinds Modern Manufacturing

High demand and mass production techniques mean that quality window blinds are quite inexpensive. They are often less costly than other window coverings. And as they last for years, of not decades, they make for a good investment.

Yet, despite the mass production of the basic parts, it is still a straightforward matter to have blinds custom-made to fit almost any window. And this still allows a vast choice of colours and materials. We can take the functionality of the blind for granted and just look for the style of blind we like for the decor.

Window coverings like blinds will take up almost no space in the room. This is because they can sit neatly inside the interior window frame, an area that is otherwise unused space. Alternately, they can be slightly larger and mounted outside the frame, to block more light and allow some leeway for different sizes.

It is of course possible to combine blinds with thin curtains, so we have the option to let outside sunlight in while still maintaining privacy. Or we can add UV-tinted film to the window.

Need Window Blinds in Auckland?

Window blinds are very practical, and there is always a style to suit the room decor. Have blinds custom-made to fit any window. Our blinds are manufactured onsite in our Auckland warehouse, where we take the utmost care to ensure a high-quality product that will enrich your home. Commercial Blinds are also available, call us now at 0800 16 1415 for your Blinds in Auckland.

Vertical Blinds Still In Style

Vertical Blinds Advantages.

Vertical blinds became a dominant form of blind in the late 80s and early 90s. They remain, along with Venetian and roller blinds, one of the most popular forms of window covering. Like all good designs, they are simple and functional. And when quality is made they last for years.

• Light control with the tilt of the slats.
• Privacy is easy, just close the blind slats.
• Ideal for large windows and glass doors, as they can be retracted to the side.
• Can be easily combined with thin or translucent curtains.
• Affordable – they are reasonably priced.
• Virtually no maintenance.
• Repairs – The mechanism is straightforward, so in the unlikely case of damage, parts are easy to replace.

Are Vertical Blinds Right for every Window?

Once vertical blinds became popular people realized how well they suited so many different types of windows. Over the past decade, they have become more popular with sliding doors. In fact, they are virtually the only blind, perhaps the only covering, suitable for sliding doors.

Other Blinds Auckland finds Popular.

• Roller blind – Open and shut these are simple and effective.
• Venetian blinds – The horizontal version of vertical blinds, and a good choice for small or medium windows.
• Curtains – just a cloth covering on a rod. These are simple, easy to clean, and can be combined with blinds.
• Zebra blinds – These alternate horizontal stripes of clear and solid colour surfaces. they can be adjusted for privacy or moderate light with minimal glare.

Vertical Blinds

Sliding glass doors and windows benefit from vertical blinds. These easy-to-clean blinds are inexpensive and suit many different decors.

Many people like blinds, in all shapes and forms. We can add to the advantages that blind offer, the ability to provide privacy and block out the sunlight, by motorizing their operation.

Most types of blind can be given motorized control. They can be retrofitted. This means the blinds you already have, which hopefully suit the room decor, can be kept just as they are. We just change the control mechanism.

While blinds themselves are quite safe there has occasionally been an issue with the cords that control the blind. It is possible for a child to get tangled in the cord. Methods that deal with this are actually very successful – the cord can be kept high out of reach, or replaced with a small rotation rod. Alternately, we simply motorize the blind.

Safety

A motor blind will be controlled by either a small switch on the wall or by remote control. The motor operation might just be a way to open and close the blind, or it might also include the ability to tilt the slats of a Venetian blind, or perhaps provide some other function.

Advantages

• Good for people with limited mobility. They require no strength to use.
• Great for large windows, where the physical movement of the blind is difficult.
• Ideal for out-of-reach windows.
• Blinds can be controlled by a smartphone app.

Power Source

A motor blind will require electrical power, but the amount of electrical power is quite low. In many cases, the motor is controlled by a set of batteries. Even a plain set of batteries will last a year when the blind is used once or twice a day. Alternately, we might have rechargeable batteries, constantly refreshed by a conventional mains power point. These will work in blackouts and be re-powered when the main power returns. Another option is solar-powered blinds. These will also have a rechargeable battery, which is refreshed whenever the Sun shines.

Motor Blinds in NZ

We can motorize existing blinds, or provide new motor-controlled blinds. These are safe, convenient, and easy to use.

Motor Blind by Blidsmith NZ

Guide to Blinds Auckland

Many people might assume that blinds and shades are words that refer to the same thing. Of course, they realise that there are many varieties of blinds and shades, but not that blinds and shades are two different categories of window covering.

Blinds are made of hard, rigid material. They cover the window when closed, but can be opened or adjusted in some way to allow light through. Venetian blinds can have their slats tilted to be opened or closed, or they can be retracted entirely to the top of the window. Shutter blinds can be opened and closed like a cupboard door. Plantation blinds can be opened like a door, or have their internal slats adjusted for partial light.

Shades are made from fabric or a similar, flexible material. They can be opened or shut, but there is usually no other option other than partially open. In some cases the fabric might be translucent, allowing some light in but providing privacy.

An exception to this naming convention is roller blinds, which are closer in operation and material to shades.

Light and Blinds Auckland

We might be in a situation where we want to let the natural light in but still have some privacy. Venetian blinds allow this if we angle the slats upward. Alternately, we can put a thin curtain behind the blind, so the view is blocked even as the light still shines through. Some people like to put the tinted film on the window glass, so the harmful UV light is blocked (no sunburn) and privacy is maintained even when the blinds are closed.

Cleaning Blinds Auckland

Blinds are easy to clean with a soft brush attachment on a vacuum. Shades can also be cleaned in a manner, or sometimes by hand washing. Curtains can be often machine washed.

Insulation and Blinds Auckland

Some blinds and shades will offer insulation so the temperature inside the room stays more stable. This saves on heating and cooling costs. These blinds and shades provide little to no insulation. Thicker window coverings, or coverings with multiple layers, provide significant insulation.

Blinds Auckland and Safety

Blinds may be controlled by a cord. While the blind itself is rarely a safety issue the cord or chain can get tangled, and can be a choking hazard. Avoid potential accidents with either a cord designed to easily break or an alternate control method, such as a rod or electric motor.

Blinds Auckland

Blinds can provide privacy, block the outside light, and insulate the room. Best of all, the right design complements the room decor.

On the Roller Blind

There have been blinds of some type in homes and buildings for many centuries. The roller blind came later than other types of blind, being invented in the late 1800s. But unlike some inventions, fashions, and trends they have remained popular. Advancing technology has changed the materials, controls, and other aspects of a roller blind, but the basic principle remains the same.

There are a few reasons why roller blinds remain popular. One is that the principle is so straightforward; a retractable blind on a spring mechanism. Another is that this deceptively simple idea is versatile enough to change with the fashions, so we always have several good decor options. And or course, like all blinds, they are so practical.

The popularity of roller blinds has made them cheaper to produce. This cost reduction has, in turn, made them more popular. So it becomes easy to have a good quality blind on every window. And it is easy to have a blind that matches the decor because there are so many inexpensive options available.

Roller Blind Buyer’s Guide

There are many fabrics available for making a roller blind. These range from cloth to plastic, heavy to light and translucent. We can use these in combination with some other window coverings to give us several options. We might have a heavy fabric roller blind to block out all light, with a translucent curtain behind it. Or we might simply put UV film on the window glass.

A roller blind will not intrude very far into the room. Nor will it take up too much space in the window. In fact, when it is open, it is like having no blind at all. And when it is closed, there is a thin yet effective cover over the window, giving privacy and blocking light.

Roller blinds can be custom-made or ordered in ready-made sizes. Obviously a ready-made blind is cheaper, and will only work on a window of the corresponding size. But there are both options available.

A roller blind is easy to clean. Most can be dusted with a light brush attachment on vacuum; a dust buster is a good option. Or the vinyl blinds can be wiped with a damp cloth. Some roller blinds can be taken down and vacuumed while flat on the floor.

The Motorised Roller Blind

This is a safe and modern option. A motorised blind can be controlled from a switch, or even from a smartphone. There is no cord for a child to get tangled in, and basically no maintenance. Motorised blinds will probably become increasingly popular over time.

Roller Blind by Blindsmith

With many colours and fabrics available, as well as a motorised option, a roller blind is often the ideal covering for your window. With the Blindsmith NZ team, you will find quality service every time.  

Some older types of blinds could be retracted with a cord. In the case of traditional Venetian blinds, there were several cords for several functions. There was a cord for retraction, there was a second cord to tilt the slats, and a third cord to close the blind.

Some it is preferable to have cordless blinds. There are a few advantages here, such as safety. Serious accidents can occur if a child gets caught in the cord. Furthermore, cords can also get tangled from misuse. Some people just think cords are rather unsightly, or old-fashioned. For this reason, we might prefer cordless blinds.

A cordless blind system can be used for solar shades, light filtering shades, blackout shades, or many types of blinds. Roller blinds are already cordless. But other blinds can be made cordless by the use of other means of control.

In a few cases, blinds work by a small electric motor. This is very neat, with the control mechanism either built into the wall or supplied as a remote control. The electricity used by these is very minimal. And because they are simple they tend to last for many years.

Another alternative is to use a small rod to control the blind. This is rotated to retract or lower the blind.

There are Venetian blinds built with no visible controls. Instead, the blind is raised simply by lifting the bottom rail. And then lowered again by lowering the rail. Slats are tiled in the same manner; tilt one slat and they all follow.

Best Venetian Blinds in NZ

A popular and versatile blind, different Venetian blinds can be controlled with a cord, a motor, or by hand. Blindsmith is here to do everything we can to make your decorating experience enjoyable and stress-free. Get in touch with our friendly team today!

The Deal with the Venetian Blind

Being both functional and attractive a well-chosen Venetian blind can work for almost any window. Office or home, Venetian blinds are worth considering.

Though there have been Venetian blinds available for generations, there are still quite modern. They have remained popular because even with modern technology they are still hard to beat. These blinds are simple and low maintenance, yet they perform their function so well. You can open the blind for a complete view outside, and let all the sunlight in. Or you can tilt the slats on the closed blind to adjust for the light and privacy you need.

The decor aspect is easy. Venetian blinds are available in natural timber, many coloured plastic PVC, or classic aluminium. We just need to find a Venetian blind in the colour that looks best.

Measuring for a Venetian Blind

There are two basic ways to mount a Venetian blind. We can have the entire blind within the window frame, or have the blind outside the frame, overlapping the edges.

If we prefer the blind within the frame we must measure the window precisely, and round slightly down. We do not want the blind to be too large, or it will catch on the edge of the window frame.

If we prefer to have the Venetian blind overlapping the window frame we should 7 cm to each side, and 7cm to the bottom edge. A blind outside the frame should block more light than a blind within the frame.

Venetian Blind Materials

Consider the material that will suit the decor. This means the texture as well as the colour of the blind. And we should consider how the material works in the environment, such as using a waterproof material near a stove or in a bathroom.

• Aluminium – These are a good general-purpose option. They resist moderate moisture and will not warp (though moisture is not good for the cords).

• Wood Blinds – Many people like the organic look of wood, so these are often used in living rooms and bedrooms. But keep them away from moisture.

• Plastic blinds – These used to have a cheap reputation, but modern colours can give good results. Consider bright plastic for a modern look. This is fine for slightly wet areas like bathroom windows.

Venetian Blind Slat Size and Cords

We can find Venetian blinds with wide slats or narrow, or medium. The wide slats will look more appropriate on a large window, and smaller slats on a smaller window. Too many slats on a window will look crowded. Too few look overwhelming.

The slats on Venetian blinds may be connected with cords or tapes (strips of cloth). The tapes let less light through as they largely block the holes in the slats. The tapes can also be a different colour to the slats, providing some interesting decor options. Otherwise, both cords and tapes work well, it is a matter of personal preference.

Best Venetian Blinds in NZ

Venetian blinds are a classic design and remain popular. Consider aluminium, PVC, or timber blinds from Blindsmith NZ to suit any room decor.

Venetian blinds are available in many materials, colours, styles, and variations. So they remain popular because there is almost always a good option for any room decor. They are also easy to use, and functional, being able to block all the outside light, or only part of the outside light, as the situation requires.

The only perceived downside to Venetian blinds was cleaning. They can be quite eh dust collectors. These blinds have a lot of smaller exposed surfaces and details, which makes them harder to clean than open flat blinds. But if we know the tricks the cleaning isn’t all that difficult.

Cleaning a Venetian Blind

Firstly, what not to do.

• Never soak blinds in a bath or tub. While this may clean some surfaces, it will cause rust on the mechanisms.
• Never use a hard vacuum cleaner on the blinds. This will cause damage.
• Do not put blinds in the washing machine. Some fabric curtains can be cleaned this way, but not blinds. Washing machines will cause the blinds to fade and change shape, basically ruining them.

The more effective Venetian Blind Cleaning methods are:

A vacuum with a soft brush attachment can be useful for a regular (once per week) cleaning. The soft brush attachment should not cause any damage.

For a more thorough cleaning (once per month), use an old sock.

• Dip the sock in a solution of warm water and mild detergent. Wring it out till it is damp, not wet.
• Put your hand inside the sock, like it was a puppet, and wipe down each slat of the blind.
• You can clean the top and bottom of each slat by lightly gripping it with the sock.
• Rinse the sock in the water, and repeat the cleaning of each slat.

Some people find that water with a little vinegar can be used instead of water and detergent. This should leave no smell when it has dried.

Do not use this sock and water method on timber blinds. Water may damage raw timber

Cleaning a Wooden Venetian Blind

Use a microfibre cloth to clean timber blinds. This will remove virtually all dust. It will also remove germs because the fine microfibers work at a very fine level.

Blindsmith’s Venetian Blinds

There are Venetian blinds in many styles and colours, which are functional and attractive too. We can find the right blind for you. Contact us now.

The Basics of the Roller Blind

Finding and ordering roller blinds online is not as difficult as we might expect. Online buying is common these days, and most of us know to look for the right size when it comes to clothing, or the right connector when it comes to buying a phone charger. Blinds are easy if we know the right size for our particular window, and have an idea of the type of decor look that we are going for.

In fact, browsing for roller blinds online is something that many probably enjoy. Certainly, many people enjoy window shopping. Perhaps the frustrating part is being spoilt for choice. We want to find a blind that complements the decor of the room, but there will always be more than one option. There will also be some variation in the features and function of the blind to consider.

What to look for in a Roller Blind

• Provide shade
• Provide privacy
• Easy to use
• Complement the room’s decor – match or contrast.
• Perhaps allow light in while providing shade – translucent.
• Perhaps block out all light, so you can watch a projector screen.
• Child safety, no cords to entangle young limbs.
• Remote control

Roller Blind Fabrics

There are two basic types of fabric for roller blinds, distinguished by their function.

Dimout fabric – These allow some exterior light from the Sun to enter a room, but still prevent glare. This is ideal for watching television, or just for reducing light on a very sunny day.

Dimout fabric is thinner than blackout fabric, usually with an open weave, or perhaps a thin sheet. There will be an opacity rating to indicate how much light comes through the blind. Light opacity is almost transparent, high opacity lest almost no light through.

Sunlight through a dimout window blind can look very appealing.

Blackout fabric – This blocks all, or nearly all, light. We might use blockout fabric in a bedroom to help us sleep, or for watching films on a projector.

Measuring for a Roller Blind

A blind might be installed on the inside of the window frame, right next to the glass. Or it might be mounted on the recess, outside of the window frame. If the blind is to be mounted outside the recessed frame you should add 50mm to the width and length of the blind so that no light comes through at the edges.

Looking for Roller Blinds?

Window roller blinds are easy to use and easy to maintain. Looking great, they allow privacy when needed and block sunlight when required. Our experienced team can tailor your needs. We can manufacture within 15 working days located in Auckland workshop. We can arrange nationwide delivery in New Zealand. Call us now for a free quote.

Real and Faux Wooden Blind

Many people like the look and feel of wood in their home decor. Wood is organic, with a grain pattern that is a pleasing combination of regularity and randomness. This makes for furnishings, like blinds, that are neat and attractive without ever becoming sterile.

Good timber blinds add sophistication to indoor decor. They can work in older traditional, and Victorian settings, or many modern contemporary room designs. Darker wood can feel old-fashioned if the room has a warm dark vibe, or it can look modern by providing a contrast with light floors and bright lighting. Light wood blinds can look very austere in a light coloured room.

The only downside to genuine timber blinds is the cost. Good timber needs to be harvested, cut to size, sanded, treated, and stained. The results look great, but this is costly.

The alternative is faux timber. Blinds can be made from synthetic material made to look like genuine timber. This is usually PVC vinyl, though other possible materials can be used. In some cases, chipboard, which is made from sawdust, can be used to create blinds that are given an artificial wood grain appearance.

Faux Wooden Blinds

Faux timber blinds look fine. And they are very durable. In some cases, their durability is a huge advantage over genuine timber blinds because they are immune to moisture damage. This means they are a good option for bathrooms, kitchens, and generally humid environments.

Genuine timber blinds can be stained to a colour that suits the decor, so they are quite versatile. They could be re-sanded and stained a different colour, but this is rather costly and difficult for a set of blinds. It is best to choose the initial colour carefully and stick with this choice. Faux timber blinds come in a wide range of colours, but they cannot be varied. So just stay with the initial choice. An advantage though is that they almost never suffer from fading when exposed to sunlight.

Advantages of Having a Wooden Blind

Blinds offer the ability to block Sunlight and provide privacy. Timber blinds and to a slightly lesser extent faux timber blinds also provide good thermal insulation, keeping the inside temperature more stable. So the room can stay warmer or cooler with less energy spent on air conditioning.

Wooden Blinds

Timber blinds look sophisticated and keep the sunlight out while keeping the inside temperature stable. Find the timber blinds that suit your decor.

Home windows are very rarely left bare. We all cover our windows with curtains, drapes, or one of many types of blinds. Of all the possibilities perhaps blinds offer the most features. Blinds of all types allow us to adjust the amount of light coming into the room, adjust for privacy, and there is always a design that complements the room decor.

There are several types of internal Window Blinds:

Venetian Blind

These are what many people think of when they talk about blinds. A classic design, Venetian blinds consist of horizontal slats that can be tilted open or closed. These slats can be made from aluminum, timber, or modern synthetic materials.
Tiling the slats open or closed on Venetian blinds allows more or less light in, and allows complete privacy when closed. An unusual advantage of these blinds is that our slats can be tilted upward to provide privacy while still allowing a moderate amount of light inside.
The only disadvantage of Venetian blinds is that they are a little tricky to clean. But a soft vacuum attachment makes cleaning reasonably easy.

Roller Blind

This is a simple but highly useful blind. Roller blinds are flat retractable sheets that cover the window. The retraction works by a spring mechanism, which rolls up and stores the blind above the window.

Roller blinds tend to be left open or closed, though they can be left partially open if required. They provide privacy and block light at the same time, or they open up to let light in. But they cannot do both at once, though a light curtain can be added to an open roller blind if privacy is required.

Vertical Blinds

These are rather like Venetian blinds, but the slats are vertical rather than horizontal. Many people like the look of these blinds; they really seem to suit large windows.

Vertical blinds are made of cloth, which is usually translucent. This means they allow a fair amount of light in when closed, while still providing privacy.

Wooden Blind

There are several types of wooden blinds. Venetian blinds can be wood, which gives an older feel to the decor. Or blinds can be solid shutters made of wood. Many people like the look of wood because it is organic.

Looking for blinds in NZ?

We aim to supply the blinds for any home need. Our range of blinds is stylish, functional, and suits many decors. Call us now and book a free consultation.