Curtains have long ceased to be an exclusively decorative part of the interior. They protect the room from prying eyes, from sunlight, and prevent drafts. However, not all curtain models can perform the above functions. Among the variety of products, modern consumers have increasingly begun to give preference to roller blinds. Which is not surprising. Roller blinds have an impressive list of advantages and a reliable design. More details about the new generation curtains, their configuration, and control mechanism are described in this publication.
A roller blind is a special fabric that is wound on a small diameter shaft
Roller blinds with guides: brief description, features
Curtains got their name from their ability to transform in an instant from a material that tightly covers a window, glass door or attic into a compact roll.
They consist of a special light-proof material, a guide and a roller; the bottom of the product is held in place by a stick. It makes the curtain heavier and prevents it from wringing. The curtain is most often controlled using a chain
There are models with a spring mechanism instead of a chain, which can be installed both at the top and bottom of the sash
Roller blinds with guides for plastic windows have a number of features that make them chosen by a large number of buyers:
- many color options;
- ease of use;
- economic benefit;
- ease of installation;
- invisible design;
- they are inexpensive.
Cassette roller blinds are an excellent option for those who keep up with the times
Note! Before purchasing, you need to find out what fabric the material of the roller curtain itself is made of.
He must:
- have dust-repellent properties, because the product cannot be washed;
- not to be transparent, transparent material is unlikely to cope with the light-protective function.
In almost all cases, this material is high quality polyester with additions of cotton, linen, and silk threads.
The curtain fabric can be made of lightweight material that protects from direct penetration of sunlight
For complete light protection, the curtain fabric must be made of special dense fabric
Roller blinds can harmonize with any classic window curtains, so the client chooses the color scheme according to his taste. The main function of roller blinds is light-proofing, and they cope with this task perfectly if they are installed correctly.
Roller blinds: brief description, types, variety of configurations
The roll-type sun protection system is a dense, single sheet that can be rolled up as needed. A roll of fabric is wound on a special shaft that has a specific control mechanism. The canvas is made of durable, smooth material.
Typical roller blind design
Among the main characteristics of such curtains are the following:
- Effective protection from daylight. The fabric blocks rays and prevents furniture from fading. Protection from prying eyes. Even light shades of paintings do not make the room open to the people around it. They let in moderate amounts of daylight, blocking what is happening indoors from passers-by on the street.
- Interior decoration. The design of modern roller blinds is unique. This window design will always attract attention.
- Draft protection. Models made of dense materials allow you to additionally protect your living space from drafts and cold.
Roller blinds can be used to decorate windows...
Or close the glass insert on the door
Note! Some buyers often confuse standard thin strip blinds with roller curtains. These are different sun protection systems. The latter are more functional and practical. They do not need to be washed frequently, do not collect dust, and provide an optimal level of light in the room.
Roller blinds can be selected to suit almost any interior
Why you should give preference to roller blinds with guides
Now there are many variations of roller blinds on the market, differing both in design, design and color scheme. But no matter what blinds you choose, it is better to give preference not to free-hanging models, but to products with side guides. Their main feature is the presence of plastic or metal guides on the sides of the canvas, ensuring its tight fit to the surface of the window. This provides many advantages for the user:
- More convenient and simpler use, since the roller blinds are raised and lowered in exactly one position. In addition, this eliminates accidental creases and damage and extends the service life of roller blinds.
- There is no interference when opening the shutters, since the blinds fit tightly to the frame.
- There are no gaps for the penetration of rays when the roller blinds are closed.
- The curtains do not flutter when the window is open or there is a slight draft, and therefore do not make unnecessary noise or interfere.
What are guides?
Roller blind guides are small side elements that are located on the sides of the blinds and ensure that they fit snugly against the window frame. They come in several types:
- Aluminum box.
- Plastic box.
- Fishing line.
The easiest to install and most reliable option to use is a plastic or aluminum box. They are attached with double-sided tape, and therefore installation takes a minimum of time and does not require special skills and effort. Fishing line is a cheaper option for attaching blinds to the sides along a window or door frame, but is more difficult to attach. Included with it are additionally special tensioners that provide tension on the string, as well as a tip with a ring for the weighting bar into which the fishing line is threaded.
Other accessories
There are interesting accessories on the market for roller blinds. They are not necessary for the operation of the curtains, but can make them more practical. It is important to complete with the following elements:
- Decoration. The chain works thanks to the weight. It can be purchased in different shapes, colors, patterns. The decor can complement the stylish roll and decorate the window. The cost is small.
- Case for decoration. The weight can be placed in a beautiful box. Basically, a white part is selected to blend in with the window. Can be attached with standard self-tapping screws.
- A plug. Very often, creators save money and do not add this important element to the composition. This is a decoration that decorates the curtain and hides the uneven end of the weighting material. Most often the plug is sold from plastic, but aluminum or metal will also work.
- Use a handle if you choose attic curtains.
- Limiter. To ensure that the fabric is wound evenly, buy a weighting agent. This way you will control the process of winding the fabric.
Advantages of roller blinds with guides
Buying this type of roller blinds is an excellent solution if you need a simple and convenient system for adjusting the lighting in the room, which will at the same time allow you to beautifully design the window opening and will not stand out against the background of the room’s interior. Here is a list of the advantages they have:
- Ease of operation - this type of sun protection systems is easy to maintain; for everyday care, dry cleaning once every 2 weeks is sufficient, depending on where the curtains are installed on the balcony or in the room, on what floor the windows are located.
- Absolute shading of the room - the guides help to avoid gaps between the canvas and the glass, and therefore sunlight will not penetrate into the room if the blinds are lowered.
- Low cost – there is a discount on roller blinds with a set of guides in our store.
- Compactness – compared to conventional fabric curtains and blinds, roller blinds take up much less space.
- Durability – this type of window opening design will last for many years.
- Easy installation of the structure.
- Wide choice of colors.
Types of roller blinds
When choosing roller curtains with guides, you should think about what type of curtains to buy. Roller blinds come in different varieties.
Open type curtains
Open – placed on a window or doorway. They have guides on the sides and a twisting mechanism.
Open systems are the simplest and most affordable
Advantages:
- affordable price;
- compactness.
Open roller blinds are better suited for large openings and panoramic windows.
Flaws:
- even in a twisted position, they cover part of the window and remain invisible to the eye;
- Difficulties may arise when opening the window sash when the curtain itself is closed;
- During installation, drilling is required, which subsequently complicates their removal.
Closed curtains
Cassette Uni, or closed ones, are special in that their mechanism is hidden inside a special cassette, which is matched to the color of the window, and makes such curtains almost invisible. In another way it is also called “box”. The curtains fit entirely into the box when rolled up, remain protected from dirt and create the illusion of a completely empty window without any curtains. Uni curtains are installed on the window with guides that are attached to the sides and ensure a tight fit of the curtain fabric to the glass. This is very convenient when adjusting natural light.
For closed-type curtains, the shaft with fabric is placed in a housing made of plastic or aluminum
Uni roller curtains are divided into 2 subtypes:
- Uni 1 - They have a small cassette that looks very neat. Curtains are mounted with special fasteners. The guides are flat and in contact with the glass. If the window gets wet, the panel may stick and the mechanism will malfunction.
Uni 1 models have flat guides
- Uni 2 – have a slightly protruding part of the frame, due to the fact that the curtains are attached directly to the window frame.
The curtain material does not touch the glass. The guides in such curtains look like the letter P. They fit a non-standard form of fastening and have a mobile lower part. Uni 2 models are equipped with a more convex box
Advantages:
- compactness;
- they are well secured, even with the window sash open;
- ease of installation and dismantling (attached with tape).
In the lower position, the curtain weighting material UNI-1 rests on the glazing bead. If the window geometry is broken, a gap forms between the weighting material and the bead, so the UNI-1 models are better suited for completely straight sashes
In the UNI-2 system, the weighting material completely covers the glazing bead and the degree of light protection does not depend on frame defects
Flaws:
- expensive price;
- the Uni 1 model is not suitable for every window due to the fact that its fastenings are rectangular in shape; it is better not to install such a system on a non-standard window;
- the Uni 2 model may interfere with the complete tilting of the window frame, due to the shape of its frame, which in most cases rests against the slope.
The difference in the opening angle of the sash is 11 degrees
Uni cassette blinds are ideal for kitchens and rooms where small children sleep. Their design allows you to regulate the light flux exactly as needed, and open the window even when the curtain is closed.
It is necessary to choose cassette curtains based primarily on the design of the window
Important! When installing roller blinds in the kitchen, you need to know that their material absorbs odors very well.
Curtains made of synthetic fabrics are optimal for the kitchen.
How to avoid mistakes when installing curtains
Installing the curtain is very simple. There are several fastening methods. The curtain consists of a roller, gear, bracket and fabric. The bracket can be spring or static and is attached to the window frame.
Installing roller blinds is very simple and does not cause any difficulties.
The roller and holder are mainly made of metal. The product is attached to the window sash, wall or ceiling. This is more convenient for the owner and fits better into the design of the room. The fabric is attached to a blind or opening frame. You can also fix it along the length of the entire window.
This type of curtain is attached directly to the frame itself, wall or ceiling.
Almost always, the product comes with additional instructions, so read them carefully. From it you will learn step by step about attaching curtains. There are also photos and videos on the Internet that show the process in detail.
On the Internet you can find detailed instructions for installing such curtains.
Roller blinds fit into every room. Due to their shape, they can come in different colors, designs and sizes. Choose the right curtain and enjoy ease of operation.
Description
Roller blind guides made of high-quality plastic are a necessary accessory for installing roller blinds. They are fixed along the edges of the window frame to ensure smooth movement of the canvas when lowering or lifting, preventing distortions. Includes 2 strips and double-sided tape for installation. Suitable for white and light-colored double-glazed window frames. The harmonious combination of reliability and durability with a low price makes this product a profitable purchase. Advantages: - aesthetic appearance; — ease of installation; — versatility; - practicality and durability.
Design elements of roller blinds in a box with guides
As a rule, when buying roller blinds in a store, the client receives them fully equipped with all components. But you still need to know what roller curtains consist of, especially if you yourself decide to install them on a PVC window.
The design of a closed roller blind is quite simple
The kit for the uni roller blind includes the following elements:
- Plastic or metal box, plugs for it.
- Guide for the box.
- Twisting mechanism.
- Threads, fishing line or chains for unwinding and twisting curtains.
- Double sided tape.
- Shaft holders. They fix the curtain as tightly as possible to the window.
- A stick or weight for the bottom of the curtain.
- Latch. Used to secure the roller shutter in the desired position.
- Instructions for manual assembly of roller blinds.
Photo ideas for decorating windows using roller blinds
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Examples of cassette curtains in a box with guides in the interior
Roller shutters do not need to be washed, ironed or steamed; they are ideal for creating comfort in your home. A children's room is a place where strict control of light or darkness is needed. Cassette roller blinds with a guide and a box act as a light filter best.
Cassette curtains with guides are indispensable for roof windows
The kitchen is a room where constant air exchange is necessary. Uni roller curtains do not interfere with the window sash opening to provide ventilation.
Mini-cassette systems can be matched to sashes of various sizes
Roller blinds can satisfy the most demanding tastes. Their color variety and design solutions give room for imagination.
Blackout roller shutters are ideal for decorating home theater windows
Any interior can be radically transformed with the help of curtains with photo printing
Roller blinds are convenient and beautiful. Their installation is easy, the components are simple, and the light protection is very high quality. If your home does not yet have such curtains, then it’s time to think about choosing a model. But for this choice, you must know for sure that the dimensions of the roller curtains will fit your window, choose a color that will complement the interior and take care of the type of installation. Some types of curtains require drilling into the walls.
Roller blinds go well with straight curtains
Roller blinds with guides are the best option for your home. They last a long time and fully cope with their tasks.
Installation of side guides
Attaching string guides
To install fishing line guides, you will need to perform the following steps:
- Assemble the bracket and roller blind holder into a single structure using double-sided adhesive tape, having previously degreased the surfaces to be glued.
- Attach the string to the lower eyelet of the curtain holder.
- Assemble all the elements of the roller blind into a single structure and secure it above the window.
- Assemble the mechanism for tensioning the string and install it at the bottom of the sash.
- Pass the string from the eye of the roller blind holder through the eye of its lower weight bar, then secure it in the tensioner located at the bottom of the window sash using a plastic clip.
- Fix the degree of tension on the string so that the blade fits tightly to the surface, but at the same time moves freely up and down.
- If the fishing line is longer than the required length, you should cut the remaining part so that it does not interfere.
At first glance, it may seem that installing side guides from fishing line is complicated, but in reality it is quite simple and takes only 10-15 minutes.
Box installation
If the roller blind comes complete with plastic or aluminum guides, then installation is very simple. First, the roller with the canvas is attached, then the length is measured from the bracket to the lowest point where the curtain will fall. The same length is then measured on the guides and they are cut to the required size. They are attached with double-sided adhesive tape to the frame along the length of the curtain. It is important to take into account several rules to ensure that the fastening of elements is reliable and durable:
- Before you start gluing double-sided tape, be sure to degrease the surface on which it will be glued. However, you should not use aggressive solvents, such as acetone, as they can damage both the frame and the guides themselves.
- It is necessary to glue not the entire plank at once, but gradually along the entire length from top to bottom.
- After securing the guides, you should leave them in the same position for several hours, and only after that will it be possible to lower or raise the curtain fabric.
At the moment, roller blinds are one of the most preferred options for installation on windows or doors. Compared to blinds or fabric curtains, they are more practical and functional, while being inexpensive, durable and easy to care for. When choosing between free-hanging roller blinds and models with side rails, it is better to overpay a little and buy the second option. Installing them is not much more difficult, and even a beginner can cope with it, but such curtains are more comfortable, do not make unnecessary noise, do not form creases and last longer.
Step-by-step instructions for installing roller blinds
Installing roller blinds is a stylish, modern design solution. They can be installed in a private house, apartment, office, or commercial premises. Such curtains are not afraid of temperature changes, wet cleaning, dust, and dirt. Depending on the weight of the structure, its type, and design solution, there are several mounting options. Let's look at them in more detail.
Necessary tools, materials
To work you need to prepare:
- building level, ruler, simple pencil;
- screwdriver (screwdriver);
- drill;
- self-tapping screws, screws, dowels;
- double sided tape.
Tools for installing curtains on a plastic window
Note! When screwing in self-tapping screws, the integrity of the plastic window is compromised. After dismantling, deep holes will remain on the frame, and sometimes the plastic may crack. It doesn't look aesthetically pleasing.
Step-by-step instructions for installing open-type curtains (using self-tapping screws)
With such fasteners, the structure will last as long as possible and reliably. However, the use of self-tapping screws involves drilling holes in the frame or wall. To drill, you need to prepare a drill and suitable screws.
Let's present the installation process itself step by step:
- Purchasing curtains, checking the contents. You need to make sure that everything you need is in the package.
- Product assembly. To do this, follow the manufacturer's instructions. Usually for assembly you just need to connect the shaft with brackets and gears.
- Marking.
You need to take the finished product with one hand and apply it to the place where installation is planned. With the other hand, use a pencil to mark the installation locations of the brackets. Use a level to check that the marks are placed correctly. It is necessary to determine the location of the curtain as accurately as possible
Important! Be sure to unfold the canvas when trying it on a window. Make sure that it does not overlap the handle.
- Drilling, installation of fasteners.
Drill holes for fastening, secure the elements with self-tapping screws, and put on the plugs. Installation completed. You can adjust the work of the canvas and enjoy the result. The procedure for installing MINI curtains on self-tapping screws
Features of installing closed curtains (using self-tapping screws)
Securing a closed system has a number of subtleties. In addition to the brackets, it is necessary to fix the box and guides. In this case, you can’t do without adhesive tape.
The top box of the cassette curtain is secured with self-tapping screws, and tape is used to fix the side guides
When installing, use the following instructions:
- Checking the complete set and serviceability of the curtain. Closed solar shading systems are usually sold pre-assembled.
- Degreasing surfaces. The installation site should be thoroughly wiped with alcohol. This will ensure a secure fit.
- Fitting, marking guides. You need to make sure that the guides are long enough. These strips are needed to guide the blade when lowering. If necessary, the guides are shortened using a regular breadboard knife. We mark the locations of the guides with a pencil.
The procedure for marking the mounting points for cassette curtains
Helpful advice! The guides should be shortened from the top. This will preserve the factory cut.
- Trying on a protective box.
We set it according to the guide marks. We check the correct operation of the system. We make marks for placing fasteners. Sequence of installation of fasteners - Fastening the box and guides.
Using a drill, you need to drill holes and secure the box with self-tapping screws. Apply adhesive tape to the guides, remove the protective film on the other side, and install them in place. We close the sides of the box with special side covers. Securing the guides with double-sided tape
Fastening with spring bracket
If you do not want to spoil the integrity of the plastic double-glazed window, you can secure the roller blinds using a simple spring bracket. This fastening option is often chosen for opening sashes.
This method is good because you don’t need to make extra holes in the plastic frames.
First you need to unpack the curtain and assemble it according to the manufacturer's instructions. Then try it on the window. It is important to place the canvas exactly in the middle of the sash using a building level. The locations of the brackets should be marked with a pencil.
The spring bracket consists of two parts. A small corner must first be inserted only slightly into the groove, and complete snapping must be done only after installing the curtain on the sash
We hang the brackets on the sash. Next, all that remains is to put the side covers on the brackets and insert the shaft with the fabric.
For reliability, the brackets can be additionally glued using double-sided tape
After this, home owners need to properly configure the sun protection system.
Installation using adhesive tape on a blind sash
This installation method is almost identical to the previous one. The only difference is the use of double-sided tape. It is needed to improve the fixation of the structure on the frame.
The installation kit consists of support pads fixed to the frame with adhesive tape, and brackets installed in them, secured with latches
So, you need to assemble the curtain and mark the installation location of the brackets. The next step is degreasing the surfaces and gluing Velcro onto the brackets. It is better to degrease with simple alcohol. We remove the brackets from the protective film, hang them on the sash, and press lightly. Next, you just need to put on the side covers and insert the roller blinds.
When you are sure that the curtain is installed correctly, remove the curtain and let the fastenings stick well without load for several hours
5 advantages of fittings for roller blinds or why you should buy them?
- Ensure reliable and simple operation of roller blinds.
- Removable parts make the roller shutter mechanism compact: this makes its delivery, repair and use more convenient.
- Spare parts for cassette models (side guides, etc.) allow you to create a completely darkening mode for the room.
- With the help of throw-on brackets placed on the rotating transoms, fastening is carried out without drilling the window frame.
- Double-sided adhesive tape (adhesive tape) allows you to install curtains on blind window sashes without using traditional fasteners (screws).
Roller blinds in the interior - design ideas
Depending on the room, the question inevitably arises: which roller blinds are best to choose and not make a mistake. The main selection criteria are the need for insulation from light and interior design. Like any other curtains, roller blinds must be in harmony with the space in style and fulfill their immediate functions.
Bedroom
When choosing roller blinds for the bedroom, it is important to remember that the main purpose of this room is relaxation and sleep. Residents of megacities such as Moscow are familiar with the problem of bright light from the street, even at night.
Closed roller blinds made of blackout or dimout fabric will help you cope with this. If you are sure that the light of city lamps will not disturb you, the “day-night” format is also suitable.
The combined format will look good: roller blinds can be combined with light tulle or air curtains. This will make the window more decorative and add coziness to the room.
Blackout roller blinds in combination with tulle.
Children's
In the nursery, as in the bedroom, it is necessary to create a suitable atmosphere for a relaxing holiday. The cassette system of roller blinds will ensure their tight fit to the glass, and the blackout material will protect from unnecessary light from the street not only at night, but also during the child’s daytime sleep.
Bright roller blinds for children's rooms.
Kitchen
For a kitchen, especially a small one, you should choose roller blinds made of translucent or transparent fabric. They will create soft lighting, scattering the bright rays of the sun. And at the same time they will protect walls, furniture and indoor plants from fading. Please note that the material is easy to wash - for this it must be impregnated with a special composition.
Depending on the style, both calm plain and bright curtains are suitable for the kitchen; you can add a print or texture. Dark roller blinds are unlikely to decorate the interior of a small kitchen.
Transparent roller blinds in a spacious kitchen.
Living room
It is appropriate to decorate a large window in the living room area by combining roller blinds with curtains. In this case, roller shutters are mounted in the opening or on frames. The density of the fabric for them should be chosen depending on the lighting and the importance of darkening the room.
Plain roller blinds in combination with curtains.
If you do not plan to add classic curtains, then the rolls can be mounted above the window, not forgetting about the allowances along the edges. For wide window sills that are decorated with flowers, this method will be less successful - the curtains will not protect the plants from the scorching sun, and they will also have to be raised to admire the greenery.
Full-width roller blinds for the living room window.
Idea! Are you planning a home theater in your living room? Choose blackout fabric! Complete darkness will allow you to create the atmosphere of a real cinema and immerse yourself in watching your favorite films.
Offices and public spaces
Roller blinds are an excellent solution for public spaces, be it an office, a salon or a medical center. They will be an excellent alternative to the familiar plastic blinds, but will add aesthetics to the room.
Roller blinds in a modern office.
High wear resistance, ease of maintenance and a wide selection of colors make roller blinds the first place in choosing window design.
The light transmission of the material depends on the functions of the space. In most cases, dimout, zebra, or even translucent roller blinds will be sufficient.
Control mechanisms: types, characteristics, advantages
Roller blinds use special mechanisms to lift fabric. There are three types of lifting mechanisms:
- chain;
- spring;
- electric.
Important! The control mechanism is the most vulnerable part of roll-up sun protection systems. It can often fail due to physical wear, low-quality components, or improper handling.
Chain
The simplest option. The control principle is based on the use of a simple metal chain. It is attached to the toothed edge of the shaft. The chain pulls on the teeth, rotating the shaft. Most often used in open models.
Chain control mechanisms are matched to specific tubular roller blind shafts
The chain mechanism has a number of advantages:
- Possibility of self-repair. If the chain breaks, it can be easily replaced with a new one. It is inexpensive and is sold in almost every specialty store.
- Simplicity. Control is carried out with one hand. Simple things last much longer.
- Possibility of installation from any side. This greatly simplifies the process of using the product for left-handed people.
Important! It is better to choose chains from metal. Plastic products often break due to the high fragility of the material.
Spring mechanism
The spring control method requires special attention. Springs allow you to set the position of the fabric automatically. There is a special regulator knob at the bottom of the weighting device. This is all that is needed to lower/raise the curtain to a certain height. Models with a similar block have a width of up to 1.5 meters.
Installation of a standard spring roller blind
There is an opinion that such curtains can move arbitrarily. However, it is not. They are not subject to arbitrary opening or closing. The design has a special locking device that prevents such phenomena.
The spring curtain can be located both above and below the sash of a plastic window
Note! During operation, the spring system should not be subjected to sudden loads or movements. This can quickly cause it to fail.
The disadvantage of springs is their rapid physical wear. If the window is opened/closed frequently, the springs will weaken. Over time, the mechanism will require replacement.
Electric control: pros and cons
Installing an electric drive is the best way to achieve maximum comfort when controlling roller blinds at home. The position of the fabric will be adjusted using a drive.
For mini-curtains, small-sized electric motors are used, the power of which is sufficient to move small-sized curtains
For heavy curtain models, special electric drives of higher power are designed.
The advantages of the electric control method are obvious:
- Possibility to lower/raise curtains using the remote control. This solution is relevant for “smart” homes.
- Ease of use of large curtains.
- Less fabric wear.
- Possibility of setting a timer. In this case, the house will become light and dark depending on the time of day.
Such a control system has its drawbacks. The main one is the high price. The cost of electric models is 30-40 percent higher than standard ones. Other disadvantages include labor-intensive repairs and expensive components, in particular the engine.