Another name for roller blinds is fabric blinds, and indeed, the principle of operation and functionality of this type of curtain is in many ways similar to standard horizontal blinds. At the same time, this option looks much more natural in a home interior, and thanks to the large selection of color options, you can choose curtains to suit any room decor style. Another advantage over blinds is the ability to combine with other types of curtains, drapes and drapes.
Rolled
The structure of the roller blind mechanism
The main structural elements are a rectangular fabric panel with a weighting agent, a chain and a shaft with a diameter of 16 mm to 32 mm, on which it is wound when folded. The presence of other elements (protective box, guides and others) depends on the specific curtain model.
When purchasing a finished product, it is not necessary to select the sizes with particular scrupulousness; you can purchase the version you like in a larger size. You can adjust the width of the blinds within 10-15 minutes using a hacksaw, a stationery knife, a metal ruler and emery.
Depending on the design features, fabric blinds are divided into several types:
Rolled with open mechanism.
A simple and inexpensive option. The mechanism consists of an open shaft of 25 mm, equipped with a lock, and a control unit with a chain. To prevent sagging of the fabric, side guides are used.
A simple fastener is a magnet installed on the bottom of the frame and an attracting metal weight located on the fabric. Cassette fabric blinds. The shaft is protected from dust, dirt or moisture by a decorative box. In addition, the folded fabric is not exposed to ultraviolet radiation and does not fade.
In addition to protecting the fabric and shaft, the box also performs an aesthetic function - boxes are produced in various shapes (round, beveled) and colors (including those imitating natural wood). Mini curtains. The mechanism is similar to the standard version, but you can attach roller blinds to plastic windows not only using self-tapping screws or self-adhesive tape, which allows you to install blinds on plastic windows without drilling, but also specially shaped brackets. Roller blinds on plastic windows, designed for installation on windows of non-standard configuration or located at an angle. Systems are produced with the ability to be installed at the bottom of the window or decorated with an aluminum lid, as well as many other options that ensure reliable fixation of the fabric.
Mini curtains
A feature of fabric blinds that distinguishes them from other types of curtains is the ability to attach roller blinds to plastic windows both indoors and outdoors.
For installation outside, models specially designed for this purpose are selected: the fabric must be treated with compounds that protect against moisture and other natural influences, and the box must be protected from precipitation.
Control mechanism
From the name itself it is clear that the canvas is wound into a roll onto a roller, which is attached to the ceiling, the wall of the window opening or directly to the window. Roller blinds can be lowered and raised in several ways.
- Using a chain.
- Using a spring self-locking mechanism.
- Wired control.
- Radio controlled.
- Connection to the Smart Home system.
The chain for manual control is installed on either side of the window. It looks like a long loop. When it is pulled down by one edge, the whole web is wound onto a special roller. To lower the curtain, you need to pull the other end of the chain. The spring self-locking mechanism is also used in manual operation. This method of adjustment is convenient because the blinds can be opened not only from bottom to top, but also vice versa, from top to bottom. This is convenient for rooms on the ground floor or when buildings are located close to each other.
Electric roller blinds are manufactured using tubular motors. The motor is mounted inside an aluminum tube. Due to the rotation of the shaft, the fabric is wound onto the pipe. Wired control is carried out by the on/off button, radio control is carried out by the remote control. And the Smart Home system will allow you to control the lighting in the room remotely via phone or using a single control panel. This adjustment method is suitable for residents of large houses and workers in spacious offices.
Mini curtain design
Mini roller blinds are designed for installation on small windows or on each sash of a regular window.
Installation is carried out on the upper profile of each sash separately, while the curtains do not interfere with the opening of the window. The mechanism is similar to conventional types of fabric blinds, the peculiarity is the smaller diameter of the shaft (16-19 mm) and the mandatory installation of side guides that fix the fabric and prevent it from getting between the sash and the frame when closing the window. Guides are made of aluminum or fishing line, less often of plastic.
Roller blinds are attached to plastic windows using double-sided tape, a special type of glue, self-tapping screws or special brackets.
Brackets are the best mounting option, but can only be used for tilt-and-turn sashes. The bracket is a U-shaped structure, one part of which is attached with self-tapping screws to the back side of the cornice, and the second covers the upper edge of the window and clamps the seal without damaging it. Such fastening of roller blinds damages the glass unit coating and allows you to move the curtain to another sash in a matter of minutes.
The size allows you to attach roller blinds to a plastic window on a profile (in this case, the fabric is placed on top of the plane of the window) or to glazing beads (the guides are attached to the side glazing beads, and the mechanism is attached to the top, additional elements protect the fabric from sticking to the glass). To perform the first fastening option, purchase models of the Uni-1 type, the second - Uni-2.
WATCH VIDEO INSTRUCTIONS
Installation of roller blinds: step-by-step instructions
Anyone can attach curtains to plastic windows; this does not require any special skills or professional tools. Roller blinds are attached to the ceiling, wall or window profile; at the same time, these fastening methods do not have any fundamental differences in installation. For example, attaching mini curtains to a swing-out shutter using brackets is done in the following sequence:
- Carefully unpack the packaging; it is not advisable to use sharp objects, they can damage the fabric or other parts. Considering that fasteners for plastic windows are fixed to the window using double-sided tape, you should prepare the surface for fastening by clearing it of dirt and wiping it with a degreaser. Structural elements are assembled : the brackets are attached to the holders, and a lifting mechanism is installed on the selected side of the shaft (the mechanism can be installed on both the right and left sides). Preliminary fitting is carried out - the brackets of the assembled cornice are placed on the upper part of the open sash, the shaft is applied, aligned in width and make marks with a pencil. Remove the protective layer from the double-sided tape and place the brackets with holders on the sash. A lifting mechanism and a roller with fabric are attached to the holders.
The use of brackets allows you to attach roller blinds without drilling the window frame, without violating its tightness.
Roller blinds are gradually replacing curtains and heavy drapes from the market.
This is due to their practicality and stylish design. There are a large number of filters available. They take up very little space and can complement almost any interior.
When purchasing roller blinds, users are interested in how the roller blind is attached to plastic windows.
This is a simple process that you can do yourself. There are several options for carrying out this process. The functionality and appearance of the curtains will depend on the type of installation chosen.
Design of roller curtains for a doorway
Sophistication of design. It should be borne in mind that such blinds for a doorway can be ordered from almost any type of material.
This allows you to get away from the usual stereotypes and create a truly unique interior design, for example, taking advantage of the opportunity provided by printed curtains.
Design Features
Existing types of roller blinds for plastic windows have a common design. The fabric is wound onto the shaft. Most often, dense cotton material is used for these purposes.
There are a huge number of canvas design options. The bottom edge of the material has a weighting agent. It does not allow the fabric to deform during the process of winding and unwinding.
Today there are many design options for roller blinds on sale.
They are divided into two large groups. The first category includes open-type roller blinds. The second group includes closed, or cassette, roller blinds for plastic windows.
Open roller blinds can be mounted above the window or in the opening itself. They, in turn, are also divided into several types.
Closed structures have a special box into which the shaft and the material wound on it are placed. This type of roller blinds is most often used for plastic windows. However, they can also be installed on aluminum or wooden frames.
Open roller blinds
Before you learn how to install roller blinds on plastic windows, you need to consider their varieties. Open roller blinds can be fixed both above the window opening and directly inside it. This opens up many options for interior design.
If you need to install a separate light filter for each double-glazed window, mini blinds are used.
They are selected according to the glass size of each window sash. If the curtain is mounted on the entire window, a type of “standard” roller blind should be installed above the window opening. If the windows have a complex configuration, “attic” curtains are suitable.
The curtain is controlled by a special chain or a spring mechanism. There are several options for attaching curtains to the window.
The first involves using tape. In hot weather, the adhesive base may melt. The curtain may fall off.
If the window sash is capable of opening, you can use special hooks. This option is not suitable for blind sashes. Installing roller blinds on plastic windows with drilling holes and fastening with self-tapping screws is considered the best option.
Pros and cons of roller blinds
Such curtain models have a number of advantages:
- Possibility of installation on roof windows.
- Quiet operation.
- Wide choice of fabric material.
- Wide selection of colors, prints, textures.
- You can put the company logo on the canvas.
- They have antistatic and dust-repellent properties.
- It is possible to install the design on any window size.
- The canvas, mounted inside the window opening, does not accumulate dust and does not complicate the opening of windows and vents.
- They do not fade in the sun.
- Reduce the heat transfer process.
- You can hang tulle in addition to the structures attached inside the window.
- Dust can be easily removed with a damp cloth for cleaning.
- Stains are removed with soap solution.
- Not only blinds, but also roller blinds can diffuse light in a day-night system.
But there are also some disadvantages:
- Mounting tape used in fastening structures floats when exposed to high temperatures.
- The canvas absorbs odors, so roller blinds may not be suitable for the kitchen.
- Components can be broken if used carelessly.
- For the first floor, only blinds with a spring self-locking mechanism are suitable. All other structures open from bottom to top, revealing views into the room.
Closed roller blinds
Cassette roller blinds are installed quite often on plastic windows today.
This is due to their aesthetic appearance. Previously it was believed that this type of roller blinds was suitable exclusively for plastic windows. Today they are used for frames made of any materials.
The system has a decorative box. It covers the shaft, giving the structure an aesthetic appearance. Systems vary in size.
Small varieties are easy to install on a frame. They will not interfere with the opening and closing of the doors. However, large roller blinds require the installation of a durable shaft and a dimensional box.
Sometimes it is impossible to install such a structure above the opening. In this case, the system is installed directly on the ceiling.
Guides are not used in this case. This may cause the canvas to deform in the future. Therefore, when choosing such types of roller blinds, it is necessary to take into account the dimensions of the space near the window.
Guides: types, materials of manufacture
There are different components for roller blinds. However, guides are considered the most practical and necessary. They act as a reliable fixation of the canvas on the windows, providing maximum protection from sunlight.
Side guides provide complete protection from sunlight and eliminate sagging of the curtain fabric
The retainer also extends the life of the curtains, preventing them from sagging or deteriorating. The guides are attached in the direction of movement of the curtains directly to the window frame. They are lateral, U-shaped.
There are two types of guides for roller blinds
Guides are most often made from two materials:
- Plastic.
- Aluminum.
Plastic ones are usually included in the set of mini curtains. They are light and practical. However, if handled carelessly, they can quickly break. Plastic is cheaper than aluminum parts. Aluminum profiles are more durable and durable. They are used for wide canvases and can withstand heavy loads.
Mini system
When studying how roller blinds are attached to plastic windows, it is necessary to consider the features of the main types of roller blinds. The “mini” type is distinguished by its compact shaft dimensions.
They are installed on each sash. Installation in this case does not require drilling the frame. Anyone can handle this setup.
To prevent the filter material from sagging, the bottom guide is made of metal. A magnetic holder is glued to the bottom frame.
When opening the window for ventilation, the fabric will tightly cover the entire surface of the glass. In this case, sagging can be avoided. This is one of the most popular types of roller shutters.
These curtains cannot provide complete darkness in the room. There is still a small strip of light on the sides. If you want to completely prevent sunlight from entering the room, it is better to give preference to roller blinds that cover the entire window and part of the wall.
Choosing a color
When choosing the color of roller blinds, be sure to take into account the shade of the wall decoration and, in general, the color scheme that predominates in the room. If you want to make accent curtains, it is not at all necessary to choose an eye-catching color; it is enough to take a slightly lighter or darker shade compared to the general color scheme.
Roller blinds can be matched to almost any interior.
If the walls have a pattern, then let the curtains be plain; this will also become a kind of accent in the interior. Another way to draw attention to window openings is to choose different fabrics for the sashes, especially if the window is large and has three sashes: one color in the center and another color on the sides. It is roller blinds that allow you to decorate the window opening in this way.
Roller blinds provide good blackout performance.
When it comes to decorating a bedroom or office, give preference to calm pastel colors. More active color solutions are also quite suitable for a nursery or living room. To create a harmonious interior, there is an unspoken rule: if the walls are decorated with a pattern, then it is better to use plain roller blinds for window openings, and vice versa, with plain walls, it is better to choose canvases with a pattern.
Curtains for the kitchen must meet certain requirements.
Recently, more and more often, designers are choosing white color for interior decoration. In this case, the curtains should be colored, otherwise the feeling of a hospital ward or office will be created. And colored (or patterned) roll sheets will give the room a finished look and refresh it.
It is better to refuse curtains whose design duplicates your wallpaper. Believe me, such “butter oil” has not yet decorated any interior.
Kitchen roller blinds should be in harmony with the design of the room.
To make the room appear wider, choose translucent fabrics or canvases with a longitudinal pattern. And to visually add height - vertical ornaments or stripes.
For windows on the north side, it is preferable to use gold, cream and yellow shades. And for southern windows, blue-green, gray and blue canvases will be a worthy addition. Thanks to them, you can feel fresh and cool on a hot day.
A light roller blind will fit into any space.
Roller blinds appeared in our everyday life relatively recently, but have already become everyone’s favorites. What else does a modern housewife need: ease of use, minimal time and effort required for maintenance, as well as functionality and a stylish appearance. The abundance of color options and ease of installation are another couple of “pluses” in the collection of roller blinds.
Roller blinds are comfortable and ergonomic.
Window measurement for mini roller blinds
To properly install roller blinds, you need to learn the technique of how to measure roller blinds for plastic windows. There are several things to consider during this process.
The fastenings of the mechanism should not interfere with the window when it is opened to its maximum. The window handle should not be an obstacle when lowering the fabric. The dimensions of the fabric material should be slightly larger than glass.
The measurement is carried out using a metal tape measure.
You need to determine the length of the glass. Another 30 mm is added to the result obtained. This size allows you to completely cover the window sash with material.
Then the height is measured. To the result obtained you need to add 120 mm.
This curtain length will be enough to completely cover the double-glazed window. The mechanism control must be located on the hinge side. The length of the chain should not be more than 2/3 of the window.
Methods for controlling roll systems
Roller blinds come with different control mechanisms:
- A chain cord
is the easiest way to control roller blinds. The position of the canvas is adjusted using a cord. This is a manual mechanism that allows you to fix the roller blinds in the desired position. The chain cord can be installed from any convenient side. - Spring mechanism.
This type of control automatically fixes the blade when it reaches the desired level. This system is convenient, but short-lived, so this control method is recommended for windows that do not require frequent adjustment of the curtains. - Electric drive.
In this case, the roller blinds are controlled using an electric motor. Roller blinds with this mechanism are ideal for hard-to-reach windows (ceiling windows, roof windows, etc.).
Measurement for roller blinds inside the opening
Particularly careful measurements require installation inside the opening into which the roller blind is installed on plastic windows.
In this case, the measurement instructions will help you perform all the steps correctly. Every millimeter will have to be taken into account. Otherwise, the curtain simply will not fit into the window opening.
When taking measurements, you should take into account the unevenness of the walls.
The dimensions of the opening are determined at three points. To carry out calculations, you must select the minimum value. This principle is applicable when measuring the length and height of an opening.
After taking measurements, you must subtract 1 cm from the minimum width result. The canvas with fastening should have this size.
The fabric itself should be even smaller by 1.5 cm. The length is measured using a similar technology. Another 1 cm is subtracted from the result.
Installation of roller blinds on plastic windows can be done in front of the opening.
In this case, it will be easier to choose the correct dimensions of the roller blind. In this case, the canvas can cover only the outline of the opening or a small part of the wall. This installation allows you to completely isolate the room from sunlight.
To choose the correct size of curtains, you need to measure the width of the opening and add 10 cm to it. Add another 15 cm to the length obtained. The height of the curtain should be measured from the attachment point to the plane of the window sill or even lower (if the design allows).
The mechanism control cord can be located on either side. For windows of non-standard shape, it is recommended to seek the help of a professional measurer. This will avoid mistakes.
Recommendations for choosing the type of fixation
Knowing how roller blinds are attached to plastic windows, it will be easier to choose the best option for roller blinds for a particular room.
Experts recommend decorating deep, wide window openings with closed-type systems. They are mounted on the frame. In this case, the window sill can be used for decorative purposes.
If the window size is small, it is better to mount the roller blinds above the opening. This option is also preferable for a window with a small window sill. The cornice in this case can be quite long.
It is better to choose the canvas in the color of the walls. This will visually increase the space of the room. Contrasting tones of the material are suitable for the “mini” variety.
If the canvas has a dense, loose structure, it is better to take the brackets to the maximum length. They will be able to accommodate the entire canvas on the shaft.
The mechanism should work quietly and smoothly. If you purchase a non-standard mechanism for moving the web (for example, the material moves in two directions), it is better to turn to professionals. In this case, the measurement will be as accurate as possible.
