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.
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
Varieties
There are two main types of systems, differing in design.
- Open
Consists of a shaft and canvas. They are not protected by anything and are clearly visible. Therefore, this type is called open.
The equipment is inexpensive, but in some cases the mechanism can have a negative impact on the design of the room. Also, be prepared for the fact that light will still penetrate from the sides: this is especially important when you are buying decor for a bedroom or nursery.
A weighting agent (made of aluminum or plastic) must be provided in the lower part. It is needed for the fabric to stretch.
- Closed
Here the base is closed on top with a protective cassette, and guides are installed on the sides of the opening. This ensures that the curtain fits snugly against the window and minimizes sun penetration.
The design can blend so well with the profile that in the folded position it is practically invisible. Or, on the contrary, you can choose a contrasting frame that will become an effective addition to the interior.
But the system will cost more, and its installation is more difficult.
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 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.
Differences from other species
Roller blinds (fabric roller shutters) can be classified as blinds for the home, since they have a similar fastening system and control mechanism. However, this decor does not have lamellas; instead, a single fabric surface is used.
In addition, the method of controlling the canvas is different: the slats rise, tightly compressing each other, and in roller blinds the material is wound onto a shaft and a neat roll is obtained (hence, in fact, the name).
Roller shutters combine the positive qualities of all options:
- due to the variety of colors and materials, they will fit well into any interior;
- they can be combined with traditional curtains;
- provide protection from the sun and prying eyes;
- the treatment of the fabric gives it a dirt-repellent effect, and therefore the products do not require special care.
If you decide to give up fabric curtains and are wondering what to choose: roller blinds or better blinds, then don’t hesitate - take the former. They are more practical to maintain and look more advantageous, while blinds add a certain touch of office style.
Before you go shopping, watch a video that talks about mistakes when choosing roller shutters.
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.
Tools and parts/accessories needed for DIY installation
Self-installation requires not only the purchased model of roller blinds, but also auxiliary equipment.
To install on a wooden window, opening, wall surface or ceiling you will need:
- plastic dowels;
- self-tapping screws;
- drill;
- drill (for a brick base - regular, for a concrete base - pobedit).
Tools needed to install roller blinds
Double-sided tape is required for installation on the sashes.
Marking in all options is done using a tape measure and pencil.
Ready-made purchased products include a base for the structure and fasteners. Before use, please check that all necessary parts are included.
Installation instructions for roller blinds “Day-Night”
You should purchase and install roller blinds only after taking into account:
- window profile material;
- method of tearing off the sashes;
- room style;
- the presence of additional window decor elements.
You can install roller blinds yourself or invite a specialist. The simplest installation with adhesive tape takes only a few minutes, including window preparation.
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.
Necessary measurements before installation
They need to be completed not even before installation, but at an even earlier stage - before purchase. If you miss the width and height, the fabric may interfere with the opening and closing of the window. After a few weeks of use, the corner of the cornice will easily crumble the putty on the slope and hollow out a small but unsightly depression in it. Moreover, clinging to the handle of the glass unit, the cut edge will fray, and the structure itself will fall off the Velcro. And problems with darkening cannot be avoided - there will always be gaps.
Measurements are performed with a regular tape measure. Having decided what type of roller curtains you want, determine the width, height of the opening and individual sashes. Let us remind you that you can adjust a long open-type roller shutter to the desired size. This is generally not difficult, but you will have to tinker.
You will need:
- pencil
- tape measure or ruler
- scissors, stationery knife
- metal hacksaw for shortening the rod
- file (sandpaper will also work).
You can work on the floor, because not every home has tables that can accommodate an unfolded curtain. You will have to disassemble it into individual components: shaft, fabric (or bamboo), weighting material.
How to shorten a curtain
- Cut the rod exactly to the required width. Finish the edge with a file or sandpaper to remove nicks.
- Mark the canvas exactly how you want to cut it. It should be 8–10 mm narrower than the shaft. Use only well-sharpened scissors.
- Using a hacksaw, adjust the length of the finishing strip so that the curtain is 10–15 mm wider than it.
- Now you can assemble the components again into a single system: tuck the curtain into the weighting material, put it on the shaft, secure the plugs and roll the material into a roll.
How to shorten without disassembling the structure
- remove the weighting material,
- cut the curtain
- Make a “pocket pipe” at the bottom along the diameter of the bar and insert it there.
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.
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.
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.
What errors occur during measurement?
Even if you are sure that you know how to measure a window for roller blinds, sometimes it is impossible to avoid mistakes. To ensure that further installation does not cause difficulties, you need to try to provide for everything. If you do not want to install roller blinds that are too large or narrow, then you need to take measurements at several points.
The most common mistake is to take measurements in only one place. However, sometimes the width or height of typical window openings may vary at several points. Therefore, it is better to measure it in 3 places, and when ordering, indicate not the maximum, but the minimum value so that the decorative element fits.
For roller blinds, it is also important to take into account the dimensions of the roller shutters. The difference due to fastenings may differ by several millimeters. If this is not taken into account, you may end up with blinds that are too wide and extend beyond the frame. This option is primarily inconvenient because the day-night curtain can block access to the handles and touch other elements. In this case, there is a high risk of tearing it off during use.
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Determining the dimensions required for installing roller blinds is not as difficult as it might seem at first glance. Since the height of most finished products is standard, experts advise paying more attention to the width. If you make a mistake with it, then there may be gaps in the window openings through which light will penetrate. For open type fastenings, the fabric can most often be cut, so the wide fabric can be adjusted to the desired size. Write down all the information you receive so you don't forget anything. And remember that individual double-glazed windows sometimes require rolls of different widths. Do not forget to measure each glass so as not to make a mistake with the size.
The video shows how to measure and install roller blinds:
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.
