Blinds #

Vertical blinds: types, features, installation, and care

hackrea / March 26, 2021

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For a comfortable decoration of window openings, vertical blinds will be an ideal solution. The constructions are suitable for rooms with large windows and sliding doors. Vertical options are more functional and more comfortable to use. With their help, you can create unique interiors, as blinds come in different textures and shades. They provide excellent protection against bright light and a pleasant atmosphere in the room.

Our review will help you understand the features and characteristics of vertical blinds and find an original and practical option for your interior.

Features of vertical blinds

The panels of vertical blinds can be with pictures or patterns. Vegetable, geometric and abstract prints are accepted. Stripes are also used. The choice of the pattern should be made following the basic interior design.

Vertical blinds have some unique features. A headrail can be attached on top of the profile, covering the gaps between the top of the structure and the slats. For installation, you have to use special brackets.

The system control device is located on the right or left. A string is used to move the elements, and a chain to rotate. The slats are displaced in the open state to keep the structure on the same level.

Advantages of vertical blinds

People choose blinds for the following advantages:

Slats with a reversal along the axis allow you to adjust the light flux smoothly. When tightly closed, they completely prevent the penetration of sunlight. Open elements allow light to pass through.
Lightweight parts do not load the sashes and do not require the installation of heavy curtain rods.
Blinds perfectly save space on the windowsill.
Products are easy to clean, practical, and easy to install;
A variety of designs characterizes the blinds. This applies to material, slat shapes, images, and shades.
Blinds go well with different curtains.

Ornaments on blinds give similarities to curtains. Blinds become more inviting and cozy. Designs with photo printing are in particular demand.

Device

The design consists of several elements. The load-bearing part is represented by a headrail, to which the slats are fixed. Clips are also attached here, which move, and slats are installed on the other side. Weights are installed on the slats, which prevent free dangling in the wind. And the control circuit is used to rotate the slats.

Slats are strips of fabric used to adjust the lighting. Depending on the number of mechanisms, elements can move in different directions and turn around their axis. A carrier stem is used for fastening the slats. These parts must be made of aluminum, which contributes to the particular strength of the product. The width of the headrail depends on the length and weight of the lamellas. For lightweight structures with a length of 3m, a product with a width of 2.5 m is suitable. For more massive panels, it is worth choosing a headrail whose width is more than 3 m.

Moving parts should move smoothly and easily. The cord and chain should not roll over to prevent the device from jamming.

Material for vertical blinds

Vertical blinds can be of various materials. It can be aluminum, PVC, plastic, and fabric. For residential interiors, the latest options are relevant.

Polyester

This material is ideal for vertical blinds. It is durable, practical, and easy to maintain. Polyester is resistant to stress. It is worth highlighting the following features of the material:

Strength. The synthetic material can be used for many years.
The simplicity of care. Polyester items can be cleaned with mild detergents.
Preservation of shape. The material does not stretch and does not shrink.
The surface stays permanently colored.
Resistant to high temperatures.
Low indicators of hygroscopicity.
Variety of options. The material can be smooth, dense, thin, or rough.

Fabric

The range of blinds differs in different fabrics. Depending on their structure, they are of four types:

Smooth is a flat surface and uniform color. This option is suitable for strict interiors. It is also used in rooms decorated in a minimalist style.
Jacquard is a fabric with an embossed texture. The volumetric pattern and particular play of colors create the look of expensive material. It is successfully used for classic designs.
Melange is a fabric made of threads of various shades. Weaving threads create the original pattern.
Natural weaving is an imitation of large linen weaving. The fabric looks natural and can last for a long time.

Plastic

Plastic products have the following positive characteristics:

Moisture repelling.
Protection against the accumulation of dirt.
Ease of processing for disinfection.
Resistance to burnout.
Nice texture.

Aluminum

Slats of different widths are made from sheets of perforated aluminum. Products can be of almost any color. Aluminum blinds are characterized by a high level of rigidity, resistance to humidity, and temperature fluctuations. Do not require frequent maintenance. Are ideal for offices, study rooms, a simple living room or bedroom.

Unusual materials

Bamboo blinds look original. Lamellas are wide and oblong plates woven from bamboo straws. These blinds are suitable for rooms that require a lot of light. The natural decor will perfectly fit into the living room’s interior, office, or themed kitchen.

The undoubted advantages include the environmental friendliness of the material. Products are characterized by convenience, unpretentiousness, and long service life.

Vertical blinds with wood slats are rare. The structures are distinguished by significant weight. They are demanding in care and is a more expensive option.

Types of vertical blinds

Blinds differ in design. Classic models are made from elements of the same color palette. When closed, they look like traditional curtains. The designs are perfect for avant-garde and classic interiors.

Rope products are strips of threads and thin ribbons; curly blinds are spectacular and original options as their panels have a zigzag configuration at the edges. There are also unusual designs that let in the sun’s rays and create a unique light play.

Vertical blinds are of the following types:

Arched are blinds made of lamellas, which have different lengths. There are plenty of color combinations of such designs. The product is distinguished by the curtain rod’s flexibility, the profile of which can take a suitable shape with angles up to 55 degrees. The structure has special stiffeners that are responsible for maintaining the form;
Inclined blinds are made according to individual orders. The designs differ in different slats lengths. Fabrics are suitable for rooms that do not require intense darkness. Plastic is relevant for places that need blocking out natural light. With inclined blinds, you can create a unique interior. They are practical, durable, and easy to operate.

Inclined and arched structures are suitable for installation on non-standard windows – bay windows, triangular or trapezoidal.

The following types of blinds are suitable for sliding windows:

Multifacture. Due to the combination of different shades and textures, such blinds can have all kinds of drawings and patterns. You can choose from various options – blinds to the floor, valances, and multilayer structures. Edges can be wavy or straight, and the lower part is flat, pointed, or beveled;
Light-resistant. Washable lamellas are made of a special material that has several layers. Such panels successfully block light and UV radiation. Blinds have excellent sound, heat insulation properties, and special impregnation;
Products with photo printing. Dense panels are ideal for drawing. Heat treatment makes the image more stable;
Threaded vertical blinds are a type of panels consisting of thread lamellas. The constructions let in the sun’s rays and add comfort and softness to the interior.

Choice of color solutions

You can find suitable blinds for any interior. It is essential to determine the color scheme correctly. The blinds can contrast sharply with the wallpaper or differ by several tones from the wall decoration. When choosing the right shade, it is worth studying some rules:

Smooth transitions from combinations of similar shades, for example, lilac-pink, look original.
Consider herbaceous or turquoise décor combinations to freshen up the interior.
Deep contrasts look exquisite. It is worth trying a combination of white and black, dark red, or blue.
Products in muted colors are an original solution. Products of pistachio color will help to complement the modern interior.
All shades of coffee, which can be dark and light, will help create a cozy atmosphere.

It is not necessary to opt for single-color design. Fabric designs with multi-colored slats look unusual. In this case, the most original options are possible. Slats can be painted in blocks. An exciting decor will turn out if each strip is different, and the shades alternate in a particular order.

Tips for choosing vertical blinds

When purchasing vertical blinds, the following recommendations should be considered:

The dimensions of the window or door openings must match the blinds. You must take all measurements before installation if you want to prevent further rework.
For residential premises, you have to choose designs in neutral tones. But if you want to put the accent in the interior on window decoration, then it is better to focus on contrasting solutions.
Before purchasing vertical blinds, you should check the mechanisms for opening and closing the blinds. It is essential to check the balance and horizontal alignment of the mounting line.
It is important to choose models from trusted manufacturers, guaranteeing a long service life of the products.
You should match the style and shade to the interior design.
It is necessary to find out in which direction the blinds will move. The sliding mechanism can be located on either side or in the central part.
The structure should be easy to open.

Vertical blinds are perfect for small spaces. With their help, you can make the ceilings visually higher and the window openings wider.

Control options

There are two options for controlling the blinds. Manual control is one of the most straightforward and most inexpensive systems. The movements of the elements are carried out using a control circuit. You can turn the slats by moving the string. The design is reliable. In case of breakdowns, you can quickly change the mechanism.

Automatic control is widespread. You can install such structures on hard-to-reach window openings, and you can control them using a remote control or a switch. The method is notable for its convenience and ability to connect to smart home applications.

Installation options

Blinds of vertical type can be mounted on any surface, as well as on inclined planes. Reinforced fasteners are not required for lightweight structures.

Installation can be carried out in the opening. In this case, you have to fix the rod to the upper window slope. What matters is the material of the slope. If it is gypsum, the structure will not hold tight. It is necessary to pay attention to whether protruding elements will create obstacles. This mounting method has certain advantages. No complicated brackets are required for installation, and it is worth highlighting the ease of installation and compactness.

Wall mounting is also provided. In this case, the structure is attached to an L-shaped configuration. Installation too close to the wall is not recommended.

There is an option of installation on the ceiling. This method will allow you to zone the room and visually move the walls. It is worth noting such advantages as ease of installation, the ability to mount anywhere in the room, and placement options in the ceiling niche.

Care rules

For the blinds to last a long time, you need to provide quality care. It is essential not to allow contamination to get onto the blinds, as it can be challenging to clean. When spots appear, you have to remove them immediately.

Dry cleaning

Dry cleaning is suitable for fabric structures, which does not require the use of water. The following methods are ideal for this:

Cleaning with a microfiber cloth. This option is suitable for preventive cleaning.
Use a special blind brush.
For dry and quick cleaning, you can use a vacuum cleaner.

Wet cleaning

Dry cleaning may not be useful if the dirt is severe. In this case, wet cleaning with a solution of soap and a sponge is suitable. In case of significant contamination, you must soak the slats in a bowl with detergent.

Even in the process of dismantling, it is necessary to note the location of all elements and their fasteners.

Maintenance of structures made of plastic and aluminum

Dry cleaning is not necessary to clean the lamellas made from these materials. A microfiber cloth and antistatic agents for various surfaces are useful for processing. To get rid of greasy stains, you need a soap solution.

Stylish and practical vertical blinds will become a real decoration of any room. And with proper care, functional structures will last for many years.

Vertical blinds in the interior

The design of vertical blinds is selected, considering the overall interior design and the room’s style. Window decor can be neutral or accentuate the setting. When choosing an option, you should pay special attention to the purpose of the room.

Living room

Wooden or fabric structures are ideal if you want to create diffused light in the living room. Bright blinds will highlight the window opening. For a classic setting, narrow blinds are suitable, which can be combined with ordinary curtains. For an eco-style interior, you can use bamboo blinds. Different options are perfect for a minimalistic environment, but you need to consider the slats’ texture.

Bedroom

Blinds made of light translucent materials are suitable for this room. You can also choose products made from dense and waterproof fabrics. And the combination of both options will be an ideal solution.

Bathroom

For this room, the practicality of the materials matters. Blinds must be resistant to high humidity and temperature extremes. Products that do not require complicated maintenance are suitable. You can also decorate the bathroom interior with plastic and aluminum structures.

Children room

Blinds with bright shades, patterns, and photographs are relevant for a children’s room, but you have to give preference to blinds made of practical fabrics.

Kitchen

For the kitchen, durable and easy-to-use products are relevant. Structures must withstand well the effects of grease, moisture, and steam. It is worth using products from the following materials:

Plastic. Blinds made of this material are easy to clean and functional.
Aluminum. Products made from such material are safe for humans and perfectly tolerate temperature changes. An extensive assortment of different colors is on sale.
Fabric. Kitchen products undergo special treatment with protective impregnations. This allows you to maintain an attractive appearance for a long time.
Wood. The perfect solution for a country-style interior. Thin wood slats create an authentic atmosphere.

Vertical blinds – Photo gallery

When choosing blinds, it is worth considering the decorative design of the panels. Milk, cream, and light beige shades are suitable for creating a neutral background. Large window openings facing the south side are best complemented with structures in dark colors. You should combine the patterns on blinds with furniture or kitchen textiles. This option will allow you to form a single interior concept. And it is necessary to install designs that will match the tone of the walls and furniture to avoid harsh color contrasts.