Pleated curtains: a complete guide to choosing, installing and caring for them

Icer
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Icer September 19, 2016Specialization: master in the construction of plasterboard structures, finishing work and laying floor coverings. Installation of door and window units, finishing of facades, installation of electrical, plumbing and heating - I can give detailed advice on all types of work.

Installing pleated curtains on a window means making the opening stylish and modern, because this option looks just great, and at the same time its cost is affordable. I will tell you how to carry out the installation yourself and achieve excellent results; the work is quite simple if you know the basic nuances of the technology and are careful. You can not only save money, but also learn useful skills, because blinds, roller blinds and other similar systems are attached in a similar way.

In the photo: pleated pleats can be installed on windows of any shape, and this is their huge advantage

What are they?

To begin with, let us remember that the word “pleated” itself is the folding of a certain matter, due to which the appearance of an “accordion” appears. Tailors and designers resort to the technique to create a certain effect.

The term “pleated” refers to curtains made from pleated fabric or paper. At the top and bottom they are fixed to a cornice made of aluminum or plastic.

The upper part of the cornice is attached to the frame or directly to the double-glazed window, the lower part serves as a weighting agent. Strings are stretched through each fold, with the help of which the height of the canvas is adjusted.

Pleated roller blinds are available in a wide range. You can find them in any color; manufacturers offer us a variety of textures and materials. You can choose a curtain of this type in the living room, bedroom, kitchen, or children's room. For the bathroom, there are certain types of pleated curtains for plastic windows, which are resistant to moisture and reliably protect against the penetration of prying eyes.

Features of blinds

On plastic windows, pleated blinds look original and add comfort and privacy to the room, and also regulate the degree of lighting, protect from sunlight and make the room stylish. Probably, often during boring lessons or lectures you at least once folded a sheet of paper into an accordion, created a fan or other shapes. This accordion is the basis for the design of blinds, although they differ from notebooks in density and have a lowering and raising system.

Interestingly, from the technical side, pleated blinds are made from pleated material, which is fixed in a profile cornice on both sides.

Like all similar models, they have three components:

1. 
   Profile made of wood, aluminum, plastic.

2. Canvas, most often paper, fabric or PVC.
3. A control mechanism that can be remote, manual or mechanical.

The models are secured to the glass with guides, which are strings - they are pulled between the lower and upper strips and the cornice. The guides pass completely through every fold, which makes closing and opening the blinds convenient. The depth of the folds varies depending on the model, and varies from 15 mm to 60 mm.

When the blinds are raised, the accordion is almost invisible, and the design does not take up much space, and for the convenience of using pleated blinds on attic windows or glazed ceilings, manufacturers have thought out an individual rod mechanism.

Important: when open, the pleated material can block a window or even a doorway, but when it is compressed, the thickness of the briquette will be no more than 50 mm.

Convenience lies in the fact that pleated blinds on a plastic window can be fixed anywhere - bottom, middle or top, allowing the user to adjust the lighting as conveniently as possible. For example, when such blinds are used to protect against solar influence and drafts of flowers on the windowsill, you just need to lower the profile to the middle of the opening and open it down. Thanks to this, you will also have light in the room, and the lower part will be securely covered.

The lifting mechanism can be either automatic or manual. Manual control is the use of clamps that fix the accordion at the required height, and automation will help you adjust the lighting remotely using a remote control or a switch on the wall.

You can buy ready-made pleated models in the store, which are made to fit standard sizes of plastic frames, or contact companies and make custom-made blinds in compliance with all sizes and shapes. The first is relevant only when we are talking about dormer, arched or triangular windows, which were not originally made according to the template.

The advantage is that with such curtains you can decorate windows of any shape without hiding, but only emphasizing the beautiful shapes. When installed on arched windows, they will also open and close. For such cases, pleated blinds are the only solution to all problems

.

Pros and cons of pleated blinds in comparison with other models

Varieties of pleated

As already mentioned, the range is incredibly huge. You can choose pleated blinds of different width, shape, material, and type of control, but the main thing when choosing is the design features. Let's find out how many there are by type.

By design

In this parameter you can easily distinguish the following types:

• 
  Hanging freely.

  They are not fixed from below, so they will sag on the folding frames. They are perfect for installation on those windows that are not equipped with a tilting and turning mechanism for ventilation.
• Tension. They can be fixed at the bottom, so they can also be used on windows with tilting frames.
• Increased tension. Due to the side guides, they adhere to the glass evenly over the entire surface area. Suitable for frames with a large slope, for example, on attic windows.
• Increased tension and cable. They are preferred in rooms with windows on the ceilings or in winter gardens.
• Down up. This system has movable cornices both above and below. Thanks to this, it is fashionable to leave a gap in any place, or in two at the same time.
• "Day Night". This is a paired design, which consists of 2 canvases with varying degrees of light transmission. This is usually a thick fabric for the night and translucent for daylight.

Please note that curtains with tension on movable curtain rods must be turned upside down and installed so that when closing the blinds can be raised from the bottom, rather than closed from the top. This solution will be ideal when installed on the ground floor. You can do the same with the Day-Night blind system.

As you can see, you can choose any option in accordance with all your wishes.

By type of fastening

Based on the mounting methods, pleated blinds can also be divided into several subtypes:

• On the frame.
• On the frame bead.
• Inside the opening.
• On the opening (to the wall).
• Ceiling.

As a rule, even one model can be secured in several ways convenient for you; the only task is to choose the method that will be convenient for you.

The planks are fixed with self-tapping screws, hanging brackets or with an adhesive base. Paper products can be secured without a cornice using double-sided tape.

In the direction of the folds

Based on the direction of the folds and the opening mechanism, we can divide pleated blinds into two more categories:

1. Horizontal arrangement.
2. Vertical arrangement.

If there are no questions with the first option, since this is widespread, then vertical blinds are just conquering the market and are not so often found on sale. Such blinds cannot be installed on semicircular windows. They are typically used for standard forms and as retractable, assembled partitions that slide into lower and upper slides. There is only one limitation in use - the dimensions, which should be agreed upon when ordering.

Another use for vertical models is as a mosquito net. This partition perfectly protects against midges and mosquitoes, which is very important in the private sector or an open gazebo.

By material

If the cornices for such curtains in the form of blinds are made of aluminum and plastic, then the curtains themselves are made of paper or fabric. The fabric option is the most common, as its range has already expanded over the past 5 years. There are darkening, almost transparent, light-transmitting types. A huge selection of textures and colors makes it possible to choose the best solution for your home. Thanks to the impregnations included in the kit, you get properties such as moisture resistance, fire resistance, antistatic, and can be used for premises of any purpose.

Fabrics can be of various origins: the bottom of artificial or natural fibers, silk, polyester, cotton and even bamboo. Lately, blackout pleated blinds have become popular. As a budget option, you can buy polyester blinds from IKEA - it will be inexpensive, practical and beautiful. Thanks to the fabric, they are fashionable to use in any room, but they are more appropriate in the bathroom and kitchen.

Sometimes pleated blinds for plastic windows are made of thick paper. Such curtains look no worse, but are not suitable for places with high humidity and are not durable. Their advantage is their affordable price. As a bonus, you won't need a drill or screws for installation.

The trend in the pleated market has become corrugated curtains, which can also be made of fabric, paper, have several layers and are suitable for non-standard windows. The main difference is the structure, which is honeycomb shaped. Thanks to this, the threads are always hidden from the inside, and the blinds look elegant.

This structure provides good thermal insulation qualities - they perfectly hold air inside themselves, thereby creating a thermally conductive membrane. Along the fold lines, 2 canvases are connected, creating 2 identical compartments. Since corrugation is also made of two layers, the structural shape allows you to protect you from light 2 times better and keep the temperature in the room slightly lower than outside.

By type of control

Although the pleated control is the same, the lifting mechanism can be equipped with handles, laces and chains for control, in some cases with an electric drive.

1. 
   Corded.

   It is made using cords (cords), which are visible from the top profile from the front and sides. Such control is often combined: one lace can raise everything up, and the second can lower it down. The Day-Night model has different cords for different fabrics.
2. Electric drive. Electric motor models are expensive, but the choice is justified when there are a lot of canvases or they are installed in a hard-to-reach place, for example, very high. Thanks to the mechanism, you can perform actions both individually and in groups with each canvas. The most expensive models also have a timer that goes off at a set time and the curtains rise (very convenient in the morning).
3. Leash. This option is practiced only in a tension system and is recommended when installing pleated blinds on opening sashes. The leash can be attached to the lower profile. When installing in a hard-to-reach place, a control bar is also used - this is an extension with an access angle that can be adjusted and has a length of 1 m, 1.5 m and 2 m. It works in the same way as a handle.
4. Crank. The method is convenient for structures that are installed on the ceiling or very high. It is an aluminum or plastic handle with lengths of 1 m, 1.5 m and 2 m. The operating principle is similar to that of a pen.

Description and features of pleated curtains

Not every fold is a pleat. With the advent of the concept, the wording appeared: - “Type of processing of matter with a press or iron.” In other words, folds caught by threads and natural unevenness of the fabric do not belong to pleated fabric.

Also, the folds should be parallel to each other. There is also a standard for the thickness of the strips. In pleated fabrics, their width “lies” in the range from 0.5 to 5 centimeters.

There are also restrictions regarding the materials of pleated curtains. Products are made from natural raw materials. This contrasts pleated blinds with competing blinds.

The latter are gradually becoming bad manners and are used mainly in offices. In homes, the fashion for pleated curtains is growing. They are also laconic and consist of segments, but spliced ​​together.

This structure allows you to design openings of complex geometry such as arches, trapezoids, circles. Neither blinds nor Roman blinds, which gather into loose folds with side threads, can boast of this.

We will achieve an understanding of the geometric flexibility of pleated curtains using the example of window design in which a standard rectangle is supplemented with a semicircle on top. It looks like an arched opening. In its rounded part the pleating is arranged like a fan. Near the round protrusion, the frames in the center of the strip are tightly compressed, and move apart towards the perimeter.

There are pleated paper curtains and fabric options. All are suitable for decorating not only vertical, but also inclined and horizontal surfaces. This is another victory in the fight between pleated and blinds.

Pleated curtains, for example, are installed on skylights. It is convenient to control the curtains on such curtains remotely, and pleated attic curtains allow you to do this.

Pleated pleats can be horizontal or vertical. The first ones visually expand the windows, and with them the room. Vertical stripes elongate the surface to be decorated. At the same time, the ceilings seem higher.

Vertical panels move to the side, and horizontal ones move up and down. However, we will talk about the classification of pleated in a separate chapter.

Types of pleated blinds for plastic windows

Curtains of the described type, by analogy with blinds, can be horizontal or vertical. Accordingly, the former rise and fall, and the latter move left and right along the window.

Horizontal models are most in demand on the market. They not only look more like conventional blinds made of thin slats, but are also more relevant for windows of non-standard shape. With their help, it is easier to regulate the light flux penetrating through the windows.

Owners of rooms with high window openings, as well as lovers of comfort or simply busy people will appreciate products equipped with an electric drive. These curtain designs can be controlled not only while lying on the sofa, but also while outside the home. By the way, all types of curtains and blinds are equipped with such practical automation systems. The difference in price between manual and automatic curtain and blind systems in most cases is compensated by the savings in time and effort required to adjust them.

horizontal

vertical

Advantages of pleated

If you decide to abandon classic tulle and brocade, giving preference to practicality and economy, then pleated curtains are what you need. This interior detail has a number of advantages:

• Curtains are attached to any surface - wood, plastic, metal, etc. They are in harmony with various types of windows - dormer, classic, panoramic, French.
• Pleated pleats have many lines. Some are aimed at aesthetics, creating comfort and complementing the design. Others protect from daylight, blocking it almost completely. There are types that control the amount of heat entering the house due to the sun's rays.
• Pleated curtains in the interior – cleanliness, neatness and aesthetics. They are easy to care for, they do not clutter up the room, and with the right choice of color and texture, they logically complete the design of the room.
• Both a child and a pensioner can handle the control system; it is simple, accessible and easy to use.

The advantage is the variety of parameters. On the modern market you will find pleated curtains for plastic windows with a width of 25 centimeters to 3 meters, which is convenient if you need to close a narrow window (for example, running along the stairs) or a very wide one (for example, a panoramic one).

Curtains are almost always made from environmentally friendly materials. The fabric can be impregnated with a liquid that prevents fire. Due to this, the curtains repel ultraviolet rays, normalizing the heating of the air in the room.

Prices for pleated curtains

A little history

The name comes from the French "pli", which means "fold". However, the birthplace of everyone’s favorite pleated patterns is Egypt, because it was there that they came up with the idea of ​​decorating themselves with fabric with many folds.

This type of curtain has a number of differences and advantages that distinguish it from all other types.

The soldiers of Alexander the Great also wore clothing with similar elements. A Scottish pleated skirt for men is an effective and comfortable garment, because additional volume is hidden in the folds, which ensures freedom of movement.

In many folk costumes, folds play an exclusively decorative role, as, for example, in women's Azerbaijani costumes.

They are a canvas of dense material, folded in a frequent accordion pattern, and from a distance they are no different from classic horizontal blinds.

Over time, pleated folds have gone beyond wardrobe elements and are actively used in interior design, for example, for window openings.

Types of pleated curtains

Pleated curtains for plastic windows are installed in 5 types. Their division is related not so much to materials as to design.

• Free models are designed for frames with a tilt-and-turn opening mechanism. Windows must be standard, of strict geometry. The pleated fabric falls freely over them.

• Tension pleated pleats, as opposed to free ones, have fishing line around the edges. It prevents curtains from sagging. It is absent on horizontal windows. It is necessary to avoid sagging in attic and other double-glazed windows on inclined surfaces. These are often found, for example, in flower greenhouses.
• Pleated roller blinds are equipped with a rotating shaft. The top edge of the canvas is attached to it. A chain similar to the blinds control mechanism allows you to simultaneously roll up and unfold the curtains. This is how the degree of their transparency is regulated.

• Pleated curtains “Day and Night” are multi-layered. As a rule, 2 fabrics are combined. One of them is translucent, and the second is dense. The result is an imitation of the classic “tulle curtains” set. During the day, you can pull back the thick curtains, letting light into the house, and at night, isolate yourself from the world, providing an intimate atmosphere in your home.

• Top-bottom models are covered with guides and side mechanisms. They make it possible to move the curtains either from below or from above. Any gap can be selected. This allows you to protect yourself from the sun and prying eyes exactly as much as you need at the moment.

Based on the structure of the fabrics, they are divided into regular and corrugated. The latter have double folds. In other words, convex compartments are located on both the front and back sides of the curtain. Between the layers of pleating, air compartments similar in shape to green leaves are formed.

It retains both light and heat inside the pleated. As a result, pleated curtains provide maximum sun protection. By the way, this is on the south windows. The sheets also act as a heat-insulating barrier.

Whatever the pleated type, they are attached to a metal profile. As a rule, it is made of aluminum. The base is sold in curtain supply stores. Pleated fabrics are available in fabric stores.

Pleated paper is sold in shops selling creative supplies. However, leftover wallpaper and sheets of whatman paper will also work. This means you can make pleated curtains with your own hands. Shall we try?

Main varieties

Curtains with a typical fold in shape are fixed to the cornice according to the principle of conventional blinds horizontally or vertically.

In the first case, the resulting structure externally resembles sliding curtains held by hooks or rings under the ceiling. The following types are distinguished depending on the shape of the window frames:

1. Standard - made for rectangular and square openings. The curtains for them are free-hanging and straight, since the fastening devices are located at the top.
2. Roller curtains are rolled into compact rolls. They complement the window openings of standard options well.
3. Products with slopes are manufactured specifically for dome structures of irregular shape. Installation is carried out under the ceiling or directly on the frame. As for attic openings, these curtains are held in place by side guides, which are complemented by systems that prevent the fabric from sagging.
4. Round and arched structures are equipped with fan-shaped types of window textiles.
5. Pleated blinds for day and night windows are distinguished by the fact that they are partially painted in a dark and light shade. A special mechanism turns parts of different colors on different sides, thereby regulating the supply of natural light to the room.

Standard

Products with slopes

Round and arched designs

"Day and night"

Materials and their features

Pleats are made mainly from rigid materials. If we consider environmentally friendly ones, then fabrics for pleated curtains include bamboo, linen and the like. Commonly available options are made from high-quality polyester impregnated with numerous products. Firstly, fire-resistant mixtures, which completely eliminate the risk of textiles catching fire in a fire. Secondly, dust-repellent and antistatic mixtures. They allow you to keep your curtains clean for as long as possible.

Important!

Recently, pleated paper curtains have become popular. In terms of their characteristics, properties and degrees of transparency, pleated paper curtains are identical to fabric curtains. However, their price is much lower due to the less durable and short-lived material.

There is a classification of pleated curtains according to the degree of transparency:

• Transparent. They let maximum light into the room, but hide it from prying eyes. Ideal for windows facing north or northeast. It is worth remembering that such curtains will not protect against excess heat and ultraviolet radiation.
• Translucent. They partially block the sun's rays from the street and the heat that comes from them. It will not be possible to achieve complete darkness of the room with this type of curtains. The maximum you can count on during daylight hours is light twilight.
• Super dense. If you want to completely isolate the room from light and heat from the street, you should choose this option. With proper installation, not a single ray of light will penetrate into the room.

Advantages and disadvantages

Paper blinds do not need to be washed. The dust is simply shaken off. They are light and small-sized and can be removed and reinstalled.

To learn what paper curtains are, watch this video:

Due to their low cost, they can be replaced frequently.

Velcro paper blinds have the advantage of being lightweight and attaching to the window in a few minutes. Dust can be easily shaken off. Due to their low cost, they can be changed at least every season.

Despite their great advantages, paper blinds have few disadvantages. These are fragility, fragility of the material, susceptibility to deformation and fear of moisture.

How to choose for the interior?

Pleated blinds are a fairly common option for curtains. They first appeared in Germany in the 80s and immediately gained worldwide popularity.

Externally, they look like blinds with horizontal slats. The only difference between the designs is that not plastic or aluminum is used in production, but pleated fabric. During production, small folds are made into the fabric, which hold their shape for a long time and are flexible.

Pleated fabrics will fit into any interior, but will look best in modern and minimalist, high-tech styles. For baroque or classicism style, it is better to take a closer look at other options. They will fit, of course, but other curtains will look more appropriate in these interiors.

Choose this model of curtains for the living room. They will look stylish and laconic, especially in combination with curtains. Use top-bottom designs as they are easier to adjust.

It is recommended to choose plain models so that the living room interior is not oversaturated with bright accents.

If you want to give the room status, then choose fabric in the following colors:

• Emerald;
• Olive;
• Wet asphalt;
• Burgundy;
• Dark blue;
• Purple.

If we talk about the bedroom, then pleated curtains should provide complete blackout, which promotes deep and restful sleep. For this room, choose day-night curtains in light pastel shades so that the color calms you down and sets you up for relaxation.

For a children's room, you can choose brighter colors, for example, yellow curtains, blue, green. They can become a bright accent in a room.

Pleated blinds muffle bright daylight and also add individuality to the interior of the room. Ideal for rooms where lighting needs to be softened.

Day-night systems

Day-night pleated curtains are becoming increasingly popular. They look like a structure made of 2 interconnected fabrics: opaque and transparent.

The degree of light protection of pleated fabrics day and night is adjusted by a bar that moves between different fabric sheets, as a result of which one folds into an accordion, and the second stretches over the entire window. Day-night curtains create a semi-dark effect in the room even in the brightest sun.

In addition to adjusting the light, design is considered an important factor when choosing day-night pleated curtains, because two fabrics of different colors can be used simultaneously on one window.

Day Night

Making pleated curtains with your own hands

Tools for making pleated sheets yourself will need: tape measure, pencil, stationery knife, double-sided tape, hole punch, clamps. The starting materials are tapes and paper.

It is easier and faster to make pleated fabric from it than from fabric. Availability of material also plays a role. In particular, paper pleated panels are often installed in new buildings, where renovations are still in progress, but you want comfort and protection from prying eyes today.

The sequence of making pleated paper curtains consists of 7 points. Start by measuring the window. In particular, you need to find out the width of the opening. Further:

-Choose the material. Paper wallpaper is considered a classic of the genre. They are initially attractive in appearance and often do not require costs, since they remain from repair work.

-Cut the paper, adding at least 40 centimeters to the height of the window. They will go to the folds. As a result, the final length of the canvas will be equal to the length of the window. If its size is 1 by 1.2 meters, the paper is cut one meter wide, but 160 centimeters long.

-Pieces of paper are marked from the inside out every 3-4 centimeters. This step between the pleated folds is as easy as possible to bend.

-Fold the paper along the markings like an accordion. The folds at the top and bottom should fold inward.

-Folding the pleats into a single ruler, make 3 holes. If the hole punch doesn't work, use a drill. The holes should be located at the edges of the curtain and in its center.

-Thread a ribbon, fishing line or cord through the holes of the curtains. There are fasteners on their lower edge. In the absence of them, tape is used.

Next is the installation of pleated curtains. They are attached with double-sided tape. If necessary, it can be easily detached from the frame and the canvas itself without damaging the surface. Therefore, the tape can be replaced at any time and the curtains can be removed.

Double-sided tape tends to lose its properties in the sun. The mount has to be replaced approximately once a month. Therefore, many people replace the tape with a wooden block. The canvas is attached to it with powerful, transparent glue.

You can secure the curtain with nails. This is usually done with curtains made of vinyl wallpaper. Pleated panels are attached to the window opening with special fasteners, sold in stores that sell curtains and related products.

When working with fabric sheets, you will need professional aluminum profile guides. Due to the lack of pleated fabric or the unacceptability of its price tag, you will have to iron the fabric yourself. No holes are made in it. The side and central ribbons are threaded through with a needle.

The edges of fabric curtains must be processed using a sewing machine. Otherwise, making pleated fabric is similar to working with paper.

Installation with tape (only for model p 4612)

Installation with adhesive tape can be done both on the window frame and directly on the glass.

Degrease the installation areas of the profiles with adhesive tape. Place the product on the window. Align the profile by level. Mark the positions of the profiles (1) on the frame with a pencil. Peel off the protective film from the double-sided tape on the profiles (2). Carefully, focusing on the marks, glue the profiles to the frame (in the case of installation on glass, glue the profiles as close as possible to the rubber seal) (3), (4). attention! The temperature of the adhesive tape, as well as the temperature of the glass/frame at the time of installation, should be in the range from +15o C to +30o C. If the surface temperature is below the specified range, it is recommended to heat it with a hairdryer.

Installation options

Now let's move on to considering fastening methods; I will tell you about those options that I used myself and the reliability of which I was personally convinced of. All of them are quite simple and suitable for inexperienced craftsmen, since they do not require highly specialized tools or any special skills.

Method 1 – mounting above a window or glass

This option can be implemented in two ways: the structure is fixed either on the top of the opening above the window, or on a bead above the glass. You need to decide in advance on the type of system in order to calculate the necessary parameters of the products; recommendations for determining dimensions are as follows:

It is important to clearly define how the pleated will be positioned

• If the system is located in the window opening on a glazing bead, then a gap of 2 mm should be left on the sides, and as for the height, the figures may be a couple of mm higher. This is necessary so that during use the curtain does not cling to the structure and functions as freely as possible;
• When attached to the top of the opening, the gaps are different. So on the sides you need to leave 7 mm, and at the top and bottom the margin can be up to 1 cm. Naturally, you need to select the size very carefully to eliminate mistakes.

It is important to understand all the installation features; for this purpose, below is a diagram that shows the entire structure of the structure. The minimum distance of the brackets from the edge is 35 mm and can reach up to 65 mm with large widths.

But if your opening is large enough, then it makes sense to use not two, but more brackets; this is easy to determine: there should be a distance of up to 50 cm between the fasteners; if it is greater, additional fasteners are needed.

Conclusion

Pleated curtains are a stylish and practical solution for a wide variety of rooms, the price of which is quite affordable. Another plus is that the structure can be easily installed with your own hands. The video in this article will tell you about the process in more detail, and if you suddenly have any questions, write them in the comments below.

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September 19, 2016

Accessories,Windows

If you want to express gratitude, add a clarification or objection, or ask the author something, add a comment or say thank you!

How to install on a window?

Manual installation methods:

• on a straight window,
• to the attic (sloping).

On a straight window

Blinds can be attached:

• On the sash. In this mounting option, the curtain should be 3 cm larger than the width of the glass itself. As for the length, it is better to buy a couple of centimeters shorter so that the fabric does not lie on the windowsill.
• In the doorway. Preliminary measurements are taken at several points at once, since the window opening may not be perfectly level. The width and length are measured in the same way as in the previous version. Before installation, check that the curtain rod does not rest against the slopes.
• On the wall. Choose blinds that are 15 cm wider than your window opening. As for the length, everything is individual. The blinds may lie on the wall, or they may not reach a little.

You can secure the curtains using:

• Self-tapping screws.
• Brackets.
• Drop-in brackets without drilling.

The main rule during installation is to maintain a distance of at least 2 cm between the glass and the curtain. It is recommended to leave a distance of 5 cm between the top and bottom walls, as well as the mounting profile.

On a dormer (sloping) window

Models that are mounted on a sloping window look exactly the same as those designed for regular standard windows.

The only difference is that manufacturers use a thicker cord on the sides of the product, since due to it the curtain will not sag on the attic window.

If the window is located on the ceiling, then a steel cable can be used in pleated blinds, which also passes through the tanks and the middle of the product. This cable allows you to easily adjust the tension of the blinds.

In the basic configuration, pleated paper curtains for roof windows are equipped with a control handle, as well as mounting brackets.

In order to install these blinds on a window, you need to place the top curtain frame in the mounting brackets, and then install the side rails.

If you do not want to install curtains yourself, then contact a professional. They will help you choose the right size of pleated blinds for your windows, and will install them quickly and efficiently.

5.Tension adjustment

If the tension of the cords is insufficient (the cornice falls or sags too much), then it is necessary to loosen the screw in two window sill brackets using a 1.5 mm hex key (included in the kit) and tighten the cords evenly on both sides.

If one edge of the movable cornice is lower than the other, then it is necessary to tighten the cords from the side that is higher. Tighten the screws in the window sill brackets installed below. Trim the ends of the cords protruding from the window sill brackets. If the product is installed upside down (window sill brackets at the top), the cords must be tightened from the side that is lower. The tension of the 1.2 mm cords in models with anti-sag protection can be adjusted from either side.

The tension of the cables in the ceiling models P3xxx is carried out using a TX20 star wrench (included in the kit). To do this, loosen the tensioner in the fixed cornice, tighten the cable, and tighten the tensioner.

Repair of pleated curtains

Repair of pleated curtains, as a rule, affects 4 points. Or the fixing cords are frayed. Or the fittings break, for example, brackets. Or the electric curtain drive starts to malfunction. The last problem is fabric tears.

The cords break from wear and tear. It can be accelerated due to a manufacturing defect or excessive tension on the fabric. This is a defect in installing curtains. In the latter case, reinstallation is required.

In others, it is enough to replace the cords yourself, or for a fee of around 300 rubles per curtain. The price of pleated curtains, at the same time, is approximately 3,000 for a canvas 160 centimeters wide and the same length.

Failures of pleated fastenings are usually associated with the sun. It ruins not only the double-sided tape, but also the plastic. Over time, the same brackets become fragile. If the curtain fittings are tensioned, breakdowns are associated with constant loads, pressure and tension. It happens, for example, that plastic is rubbed with cords.

If the fasteners break, they are replaced, but a malfunctioning electric drive can be repaired. Breakthroughs in tissue are difficult to disguise. Patches on curtain fabrics spoil their aesthetics. Therefore, torn pleated ones are replaced.

Finally, we note that if the concept of “plisse” appeared in the 17th century, and the pleated fabric itself dates back to BC, then curtains of this category were invented in the second half of the 20th century. The inventors were the Germans. Their products are still considered one of the best and most diverse in design.

How to hang pleated blinds on plastic windows without drilling: do-it-yourself installation - Review + Video

Pleated blinds are the best choice for windows and balconies of apartments and private houses. Pleated blinds came into our lives relatively recently: the history of their appearance has been known since the second half of the 20th century in Germany. Everyone knows that Germans give preference to comfortable and practical things, so such qualities were embodied in the curtains of German designers, which we call pleated blinds for windows. Due to their quality, they have become widespread in Europe and other parts of the world. Despite the fact that at the moment roller blinds still do not leave their positions and are competitors for pleated blinds, the second option still has more advantages. What is their secret? Let's find out.

How to care?

Before you think about caring for blinds, you need to know how to remove them from the window. Read about this in our instructions “How to remove blinds from a window (for different types of fastenings).”

The pleated ones are easy to use. To remove a stain from a curtain, simply rub it with a damp sponge. Curtains marked with special markings can be washed.

If you want to wash curtains, it is recommended to do this in water at 30 degrees with cleaning products that do not contain aggressive chemicals. Best machine washable on hand wash.

When assembled, they dry for about twelve hours.

If you plan to do wet cleaning, be careful to ensure that no cleaning agents get inside the mechanism. It is not recommended to use alcohol-based products.

Installation methods

Having figured out what pleated curtains are, you need to understand how to correctly place them above the opening. If you lack the slightest skills, it is better to entrust such a task to a specialist. Step-by-step instructions:

1. The selected curtain is placed along the contour of the glass, which is appropriate when the depth of the glazing bead is more than 15 mm, and better if it is all 20 mm. However, this structure is not typical for standard plastic windows.
2. Placement of the product directly on the window frame surrounding the glass unit. In this case, the cornice is fixed in the right place using self-tapping screws included in the package.
3. Installation directly into the opening, which is suitable for sliding-type structures and their analogues that open upward. A distance of 5 cm is maintained between the sash and the upper slope.
4. Installation on the opening itself is carried out according to the principle of the procedure with a cornice.

Installation of “Mini” systems

Unlike cassette systems, Mini can be reduced in width if necessary. This is what they often do, buying standard finished products. How to do this will be described below. But in order not to create unnecessary problems for yourself when ordering curtains according to your size, which is already more expensive, it is better to take careful measurements.

How to take measurements

Roller blinds of this type are the simplest. They are not limited by vertical guides, so measurements will not be difficult to take. To do this you need:

• measure the distance between the edges of the glazing beads in the opening of the window sash and add about 3 cm to it so that the canvas covers it completely;
• measure this distance vertically and add 10-12 cm, which are needed to install the brackets on which the shaft will be supported.

How to take measurements

Vertically, you can take a larger size of curtains, since winding allows you to adjust their length.

Advice. The side on which the web control chain will be located must also be selected in advance.

Keep in mind that the width of the fabric and the overall overall width of roller blinds are not the same. They may differ by 1-4 centimeters depending on the manufacturer.

The width of the fabric and curtains are not the same

Options for installing blinds without using self-tapping screws

Blinds of the mini-rollo system are attached to plastic windows in two ways: with double-sided tape or with hanging brackets. The first method is universal and suitable for any sashes. The second is only for tilt and turn.

A plastic attachment that is glued to the frame and serves to hold the shaft fasteners

The adhesive tape may already be glued to the nozzle, and its outer side is covered with a protective film. Or the product kit includes the required amount of adhesive tape, which, before installing the curtains, is cut off and glued to the back of the nozzle with your own hands.

The self-installation process is extremely simple.

In order for the structure to hold for a long time and firmly, before installation the window frame must be degreased in those places where the nozzle will be glued. To do this, wipe it with acetone or alcohol.

Advice. If the installation is carried out in the cold season on a cold frame, it is pre-heated with a directed stream of warm air from a regular household hair dryer.

Judging by some reviews, such fastening is not always reliable enough, and over time or as a result of the use of excessive force when controlling the blade, the entire structure falls.

Of course, this depends on the quality of the adhesive tape and proper surface preparation. Therefore, if there are doubts about the reliability of fastening, you can use plastic glue instead of tape. But if you want to remove the blinds, it will leave marks on the frame.

Adhesive for plastic

Prices for Cosmoplast 500 glue

Cosmoplast 500 glue

The second fastening method also involves the use of double-sided tape, but only as additional fixation. The main load is taken by the hanging brackets. They are shaped like the letter L, the leg of which has the same profile as the gluing nozzle. And the upper part of the bracket is hung on the upper part of the sash.

bracket

As with the attachment, the vertical part of the bracket is glued to the frame with adhesive tape.

Plastic brackets are almost invisible and do not interfere with the window closing. For flaps, this is a more reliable mounting option. Since “Mini” blinds are lightweight, they easily hold them even when the shutter moves and there are drafts.

Heavier structures are mounted on metal clamping brackets, which are pulled to the frame using a movable tab.

Metal clamp brackets

Bracket Attachment

How to reduce the width of the canvas

The width of the roller blind should be such that the canvas completely covers the light opening, but does not touch the sash handle. If the purchased Mini blinds are wider, this can be corrected.

Step 1.

We measure the required size and transfer it to the unfolded curtain fabric.

We measure the required size

Step 2.

Draw a cutting line and cut off excess fabric.

Draw a cutting line

Step 3.

Having reached the shaft on which the fabric is wound, we peel it off in the excess area and cut it to the end.

Peel off and cut the fabric

Step 4.

Using a hacksaw, we saw off the excess part of the pipe, retreating 5 mm from the rolled fabric.

Cutting off the excess part of the pipe

Step 5.

We do the same with the weighting material, but it needs to be cut without a margin of 5 mm.

Cutting the weighting material

Step 5.

We insert the weighting into the bottom drawstring of the curtain and put plastic plugs on its ends.

Installing a weighting agent

Step 6.

We insert fasteners with a chain mechanism into the shaft pipe and hang the converted blinds in place.

Insert fasteners into the shaft pipe

Video - Installing roller blinds on a window