|
Conservatory Blinds
Top tips
- Pleated blinds are considered the most effective
style
- Pinoleum blinds give a more traditional look and
feel
- Free-standing shutters can reduce glare
The ability to control heat and glare is essential if
the conservatory is to be usable throughout the year and
blinds are the traditional way of offering protection from
the sun in the summer and helping to retain heat in the
winter.
The available range of styles and materials means you’ll
be spoilt for choice but, as with all home furnishings,
your decision will be dictated by your budget and your
lifestyle.
 Pleated blinds are the not only the most popular choice,
but also the most effective, since they reflect up to 83%
of the sun’s heat. Available in a wide range of colours
and patterns, they are very easy to maintain, especially
if treated to repel dirt and damp. Remember to check the
width of the pleats before buying – the slimmer the
pleat, the neater the overall look. Pleated blinds ‘concertina’ away
tidily and can be automated for remote operation.
For maximum
effectiveness, it is recommended that they be also treated
with a special solar finish. Roman blinds provide a more traditional alternative. Although
available in a number of materials the usual choice is
French pinoleum, which comprises thin strips of woven wood
that filters sunlight very gently and has first-class solar
properties. This classic wood-weave style perfectly complements
the rattan and wicker furniture often chosen for a conservatory.
However, note that some materials used for Roman blinds – such
as bamboo – are not suitable for roof blinds. Like
pleated blinds, Roman blinds can be automated for remote
control.
Roller blinds can be produced in a wide range of fabrics
although the best choice for conservatories feature special
solar-reflective aluminium backing to provide essential
temperature and glare control. Not necessarily the most
aesthetically appealing option, these blinds nevertheless
offer a highly efficient way of deflecting heat build-up
and glare.
Creative types with a sewing machine might prefer the
more cost-effective option of DIY drapes or shutters. They
won’t offer the same degree of protection from heat
and glare as professionally-installed blinds, although
they will soften the light and cool the atmosphere – how
much will depend on the fabrics chosen.
Free-standing tall timber shutters, which are available
at most DIY stores, can be positioned to reduce glare through
the windows; they are particularly useful if you want to
watch television or use a computer. Alternatively, smaller
shutters can be fixed to the windows externally although
this is a task that should be entrusted to the professionals – it’s
definitely not a DIY project.
 Vertical and Venetian blinds, available in wood, wood
effect and aluminium, are another option but they can be
difficult to fit. What’s more, they are highly efficient
dust traps!
Unless going down the DIY route, do have your conservatory
measured by the supplier who will be fitting the blinds
rather than providing the measurements yourself.
Once they are in place you will find that they significantly
enhance the conditions in your conservatory, making it
a pleasant and enjoyable place to work, rest and play all
through the year – rather than a greenhouse in the
summer and a fridge in the winter.
Other useful links:
www.sun-blinds.com
www.conservatory-interiors.com
|
