Among the most effective sun protection systems, roller blinds occupy a special place. They are fixed to the windows using self-tapping screws. This ensures their long, reliable service. However, not all owners want to “injure” their plastic windows. The screws leave deep holes. After dismantling the curtains, they have to be sealed and masked. A way to secure the sun protection structure without drilling will help to avoid “injury” to the windows. It is described in more detail in this publication.
When installing roller blinds on window sashes, the window sill remains free
General information about roller blinds for windows
Roller blinds are a simple design. The curtain is a soft material of varying degrees of light transmission. During operation, the fabric is wound onto the shaft using a cassette, spring, chain or automatic mechanism.
When making roller blinds, fabrics are used that do not create gaps.
Heavy curtains and drapes have been replaced by roller blinds.
Main features
The main feature of roller blinds is the method of their fastening, which allows you to fix such products without damaging double-glazed windows or walls. The mechanism is quite compact. The classic design, equipped with a rotating shaft and a fabric wound on it, is easy to use. Due to the holder and chain, it allows you to easily change the position of the curtain.
Benefits of use
Roller blinds are universal, i.e. They can be installed on both fixed and opening windows. Roller blinds do not absorb moisture and dust, so they are easy to clean and do not require special care. The design is easy to install and operate, but is also reliable.
Roller blinds do not take up much space. Models are made from environmentally friendly materials. Manufacturers use fabrics that do not fade when exposed to direct sunlight, so the product retains its appearance for a long time.
Roller blinds are located close to the double-glazed window and in extreme heat reduce the rate of heating of the room.
The advantages of such curtains include a large number of designs, availability and low price compared to classic curtains.
Advantages and disadvantages
The design of roller shutters is quite simple. It consists of a canvas and a special roller (holder), which allows you to easily twist, unwind and fix the curtain in the desired position.
A large number of models on the market do not require additional drilling or the use of self-tapping screws. And they all work on the principle of Roman blinds.
Initially, they were used to darken rooms from the sun. Today it is also used as a decorative element. That is why all modern apartment designs, offices, public places in most cases have such an accessory in the interior.
This love from consumers is due to the many advantages of roller shutters over old-fashioned, heavy, dust-collecting curtains. Just like regular curtains, roller curtains protect from ultraviolet radiation and cover windows from prying eyes. In addition, if you choose the right accessory, it emphasizes the interior and saves space.
Pros of roller blinds:
- Compactness. The fastening, which provides for the placement of the fabric in close proximity to the glass, allows you to save as much space as possible in the room, and if desired, you can also hang tulle.
- Sun protection. Thanks to light-protective fabrics that do not transmit sunlight, you can choose and regulate the amount of light transmitted into the room.
- Practicality. The simplicity of the design allows you to change the canvas at any convenient time. For example, light (transparent) ones - in winter, and darker ones - in summer.
- Easy to care for. Specially impregnated fabric is not capable of accumulating dust, is easy to clean and dries instantly.
Main types
Depending on the design features and method of fastening, the following types of curtains are distinguished:
- “Mini” – as simple as possible, with an open shaft with a canvas. Most often, such products are attached with self-tapping screws, but if necessary, they can also be hung with mounting tape. The design is lightweight and economical.
- Cassette curtains are a drum system with a canvas placed inside a special box. Movement is ensured by side cassette guides. The fastening is carried out on the window profile, which eliminates the appearance of gaps and gaps. The box may have different colors. There is no need to drill additional mounting holes during installation.
- Double curtains are a system equipped with a spring mechanism. This allows the curtains to be lowered and raised.
Examples of different types of roller blinds.
Control method
Roller blinds
There is one more criterion that should be taken into account when purchasing roller blinds - this is the method of controlling the structure.
Mechanical
Manual twisting mechanism
This is the most common, inexpensive and simple method. It involves independent mechanical opening and closing of the curtain by manipulating a chain that is connected to a gear on the shaft.
Automated
Remote curtain control
A more expensive and modern option is products with electric drive. They are always equipped with a box in which the device is hidden. The curtain is controlled by a remote control.
This is very convenient and comfortable, especially when the curtain inside the box is double. That is, it allows you to regulate the amount of light and helps you get a good night's sleep in the early morning. This is an excellent solution for implementing the “smart home” concept.
Fabrics used in roller blinds
More often, materials are used that are resistant to moisture, various pollutants, ultraviolet radiation, fungi, etc. Another important characteristic is the degree of transparency of the fabric.
Translucent
These curtains have a lightweight fabric made from 1 layer of synthetic fabric. They let most of the sun's rays through, even when the curtain is down. In this case, the light passing through the fabric becomes diffused. It is impossible to see from the outside what is happening inside through such curtains. This type is well suited for windows located on the north side, as well as in cases where the room is too small and light colors and good lighting are required to visually enlarge it.
Translucent roller blinds.
Blackout
Roller blinds of this type have a light-proof curtain consisting of 3 layers of material. The first and last of them consist of natural or synthetic fabric. In this case, the middle layer is represented by a light-proof material. This type of roller blind is more often found in photo studios and rooms intended for presentations.
Blackout roller blinds.
Day Night
The design is equipped with a double fabric, represented by alternating opaque and mesh stripes. These curtains allow you to regulate the level of illumination in the room. In this case, there is no need to lift the canvas to see what is happening outside the window.
Roller blinds "day-night".
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.
Areas of use
Roller blinds are now being actively installed in apartments and office spaces; they are used not only to protect from direct sunlight, but also to isolate employees from each other.
In the kitchen
Roller blinds are increasingly used in the kitchen. Apartment owners spend a lot of time in this room, so a cozy interior is extremely important. However, using curtains and tulle here is not very convenient, because... They may become contaminated with stubborn contaminants. In addition, classic curtains are more likely to catch fire. In the kitchen it is better to install roller blinds with mini-mounts.
"Day-night" in the kitchen.
In office premises
Good lighting is important for offices. If it is insufficient, it will negatively affect the performance of employees. In such rooms it is recommended to install roller blinds with a permeability of at least 50%. This will help prevent the office from heating up due to exposure to direct sunlight, but will not affect the light levels.
The light transmission of roller blinds intended for office use must be at least 50%.
In the nursery
It is not recommended to hang classic curtains in children's rooms, because... A lot of dust accumulates on them, which can later provoke the development of allergic reactions and asthma in a child. In such rooms it is better to install roller blinds with bright canvases and illustrations. This will make the nursery more comfortable.
For a children's room, it is recommended to choose brightly colored curtains.
Popular brands
Laconic curtains from Inspire
How to choose high-quality roller blinds so that they last a long time, do not lose their original appearance and perform all their functions efficiently? Below is a list of manufacturers with a well-deserved reputation:
- Inspire . A division of the world famous Leroy Merlin factory. It works only with natural materials, so the products are expensive. However, the price is justified by the quality and chic appearance of the curtains
- Lotari . A Chinese brand that sells inexpensive and cute polyester roller blinds
- Escar . Russian company. Products are made from synthetic fabric
- Cosiness . A Russian brand that pays great attention to the aesthetic appeal of the product and design. Local rulers delight the eye with a variety of colors, textures and sizes
If you are in doubt about the choice, we advise you to study the products in online stores and compare prices. There are always online consultants who will answer all questions.
Selection criteria: what to look for when purchasing
Open mini-structures are more convenient for installation in the kitchen. You can easily secure them with your own hands. In other rooms and office spaces, it is better to use closed cassette or spring models.
The next thing you need to pay attention to is the material from which the canvas is made. If the curtain will be located in a place with high traffic, it is better to choose models with a curtain made of synthetic fabric. In apartments, roller blinds with fabric made of natural material are more often installed. If the room is located on the ground floor, it is better to install double curtains. On the upper floors, single-layer canvases are sufficient.
In addition, when purchasing curtains, you need to clarify the control method. There are both mechanical and automatic models on sale.
Popular brands
The best brands include:
- Inspire.
- Lotari.
- "Escar."
- Cosiness.
How to correctly take window measurements for roller blinds with fastening inside the opening
If you choose a model with fastening inside the opening, try to measure as accurately as possible, taking into account every millimeter. If you determine the dimensions incorrectly, the curtain rod you purchased may simply not fit into the window opening and further installation of the curtain will become impossible.
When measuring the width of a window opening, you need to take into account the unevenness of the walls, so measurements are taken in three places, and the minimum value is selected for calculations. It is also necessary to do the same when measuring the height of the opening.
- From the smallest value of the opening width, subtract 1 cm and get the overall width of the product. Taking into account the fastenings, the width of the curtain fabric will be 1.5 - 2 cm smaller.
- We calculate the height of the product in the same way - subtract 1 cm from the minimum value. The length of the fabric in this case will correspond to the height of the window opening to the window sill.
The next step in the design of a window group is the choice of the type and location of the lifting mechanism, the density and design of the curtain fabric.
Installation instructions for plastic windows without drilling
Depending on the design characteristics, the installation process for different types of roller blinds varies slightly.
Mini
Mini curtains are often installed on the window frame.
For installation you need:
- Double-sided tape;
- hook brackets;
- set of roller blinds.
Installation process:
- The surface of the frame and brackets are thoroughly disinfected.
- Make markings and glue the fasteners.
- The shaft holders snap onto the brackets.
- The roll is equipped with a lifting mechanism.
- Mount the shaft on the holders.
- Apply the structure to the window to check for gaps and protrusions.
- Remove the film from the tape on the brackets and fix the roller blind to the sash.
When installing roller blinds, you need to be careful to avoid damaging thin plastic parts.
Cassette
Cassette roller blinds are sold assembled, which simplifies the installation process. Often, mounting tape is already attached to the case. To install such curtains, the window surface is first marked and disinfected. Then remove the protective film, apply the body to the surface of the glass unit and lightly press down.
Models with guides
These models are distinguished by the presence of 2 guides. This design prevents the curtain from sagging when the window is opened.
In the process of installing such roller blinds, the following stages go through:
- The window frame is thoroughly disinfected.
- Markings are applied with a pencil.
- Remove the protective film from the box and attach it to the top of the sash.
- Mount the guides on double tape (strictly according to the markings).
- Place the curtain in the guides.
An example of installing roller blinds with guides.
Roller blinds with fishing line
Roller blinds with a string guide allow you to avoid the movement of the canvas when changing the position of the window sash.
The model is installed as follows:
- Connect all grooves and holders.
- Insert the strings into the lower holes of the clamps.
- The frame is thoroughly disinfected and the grooves are installed.
- A shaft with a blade is installed in the brackets.
- Mount the chain mechanism and plugs.
- At the bottom, fasteners are installed to tension the fishing line.
- Stretch the strings and secure them with clamps.
Installation of roller blinds with fishing line.
How to shorten a curtain
Sometimes the sizes of standard canvases are not suitable for the window frame. In this case, the size of the structure can be changed:
- Cut the shaft to the required size. Polish the cut area.
- Make markings on the curtain. The roller should be 9-11 mm longer.
- The finishing strip should be 12-14 mm narrower than the curtain.
- After this, connect the components into a single structure.
How to shorten without disassembling the structure
If you need to shorten the canvas from below, then the structure does not need to be disassembled. Step-by-step instruction:
- Remove the hanging beam.
- Shorten the curtain.
- Hem the bottom edge so that the hanging beam fits into the cavity.
Problems you may encounter during installation
Most often, installation difficulties arise due to incorrect measurements. The size of the curtains consists of the parameters of the fabric and the fastening system. These parameters must be taken into account when choosing roller blinds.
Detachment of the model often occurs due to insufficient disinfection of the window surface. In this case, even when pressed tightly, air bubbles and other connection defects remain under the adhesive tape. Subsequently, moist air enters such cavities, which gradually leads to detachment of the structure.
Another common problem is incorrect marking. If the structure is not fixed level, the curtain will hang at an angle. To avoid this problem, it is recommended to use a building level during installation.
Installation of Uni systems
You will not find blinds of this design on sale ready-made, because every millimeter of the width of the canvas is important for their installation and normal operation. Therefore, if it is not possible to call a measurer to your home, but you can order curtains by phone or on the manufacturer’s website, you will have to do the measurements yourself.
Prices for blinds
Blinds
How to take measurements
For the “Uni 1” and “Uni 2” systems, measurements are performed differently.
Advice. For more accurate measurements, use a long metal ruler or tape measure rather than a tailor's tape measure.
Guides for Uni 1 curtains are attached to the glazing bead on the glass side, so for windows with straight glazing beads, measurements are taken as follows:
- The width of the canvas should be equal to the width of the glass in the sash. You can make it literally 1-2 mm smaller to ensure free movement;
- the height of the canvas is the height of the glass between the upper and lower glazing beads.
If the beads are beveled, measurements are taken from their middle.
Types of glazing beads
Guides for curtains “Uni 2” are attached to the frame along the glazing beads. In this case it is measured like this:
- the width of the canvas is equal to the distance between the outer grooves of the glazing beads plus 2 cm: 1 cm for the width of each guide;
- the height is equal to the height of the window sash with frame.
Measurement scheme
It is important! The geometry of a window block is not always ideal, so all measurements of width and height must be made at three levels and the smallest value taken into account.
Operation and care
Curtain material can absorb odors. To prevent this, you should regularly ventilate the room. Several times a month, wipe the box and curtains with a damp cloth or sponge soaked in soapy water. Washing fabrics in a machine is not allowed.
To remove dry stains, it is recommended to use a school eraser. To remove stubborn stains, it is customary to remove curtains and send them to dry cleaning. The use of aggressive stain removers is contraindicated due to the high risk of streaks forming on the canvas.
Disadvantages of roller blinds
The disadvantages of roller blinds include the need to periodically reinstall them. This problem is associated with the gradual degradation of the adhesive composition, due to which the tape loses its ability to hold the structure. Most models can only be installed on windows. Their installation on slopes is often impossible.
At low temperatures and high humidity indoors, fungal colonies often form on natural fabrics. To reduce the risk of such a problem, fabrics should be treated with special means, and moisture absorbers should be used.
Possible mistakes
Take measurements accurately
What shortcomings and problems can you encounter during the installation process?
- Remember that the width of the curtain consists of the size of the canvas, as well as the parameters of the fastening system and cassette. Take your measurements correctly
- Even before making a purchase, decide how you will mount the structure: drill, not drill, with tape, with brackets, with what type of brackets. Look at your window, the type of glazing beads. Does the window open or is it tightly closed? Where are you going to glue it: on the glass, on the frame, on the sashes? Explain your situation well to the store consultant so that he can offer the correct installation kit
- Check that you have enough details. It would be a shame to slow down in the middle of the process and urgently run to buy more plastic plates or double-sided tape
- It is advisable to use a level to achieve perfect evenness. Even a couple of millimeters can unsightly skew the roller shutter in the shaft
- The holders are fixed on the wall so close that they do not interfere with the roll spinning freely
If you have a high window and a thick roller shutter material, then the rolled roll will be very thick. Consider its diameter when purchasing brackets. In your case, you need to take the longest ones.
