Mechanisms for curtains: spring, lifting, how to disassemble, how to make it yourself

Cassette roller blinds completely cover the glass unit of a plastic window block. Due to this, its light transmission capacity is reduced. There are several varieties of such curtains, differing in design and operating features. When choosing, you need to consider the difference between them.

Cassette roller blinds.

Lifting

This design moves according to a simple and understandable principle: the curtain rises in a vertical plane and can be fixed in suitable positions. When it comes to roller blinds, they roll up at the top. In other cases, the canvas can remain gathered into beautiful waves at different height levels.

The use of structures with a lifting mechanism in any room can transform it beyond recognition.

The mechanism consists of several components:

A profile that serves as the base of a structure and is mounted on a wall, ceiling or window frame.
A control element that ensures the process of web movement itself.
A weighting material that is attached to the bottom of the curtain so that it holds its shape in any position.
Plugs are installed on the sides of the structure, ensuring its tightness.

Some models are equipped with additional elements that are designed to improve the appearance and make operation more comfortable.
The lifting mechanism for roller blinds can be supplemented with a box, which serves for protection and decorative purposes. A roll of fabric is hidden in it. When it comes to Roman (Austrian, French, etc.) curtains, they are lifted using pulling cables (laces); the curtain itself is not hidden in a bundle, but is attached to a special plumb line.

You can raise or lower the curtain while regulating the amount of sunlight using a special mechanism.

What is common in the design of Uni 1 and Uni 2

These types are united by a mechanism of action: a canvas is wound onto a shaft, covering the double-glazed window in the unfolded position; this unit is protected by a box and is located in the upper part of the window block. On the sides the fabric is protected by strips that ensure its tight fit to the plastic profile. There are 2 options for control: side chain and spring mechanism or electric drive. At the bottom, the curtains are held in place by a weighting material.

Thanks to this similarity in designs, you can easily confuse these models if you quickly compare them from the photo. In addition, in both cases it is permissible to use the same canvas. The color of the body is determined arbitrarily; it is recommended to choose a frame structure that matches the color of the plastic profile, then the guides will be invisible against the background of the window.

Spring

This mechanism allows you to fix the fabric in a constant tension state, eliminating sagging of individual sections of the fabric. It completely lacks a chain system; the structure is controlled using the regulator handle. The shaft rotates using a spring and is fixed thanks to a locking element.

Roller blinds with a spring mechanism are free-hanging systems that are controlled by a spring.

Spring structures are popular not only on vertical surfaces, but also for closing window niches that are located on a slope (for example, an attic). Very often it is used as a basis for fabric with photo printing.

Roller blinds with a spring mechanism are also worth buying because their design does not have small parts that, if broken, can get into the body of small children.

The spring type of mechanism is considered an unreliable design, since the spring stretches and wears out over time. But with proper care and careful use, the product can last quite a long time.

The spring mechanism allows you to attach the curtain both at the top and bottom of the frame.

Methods of operation of sliding mechanisms

Let's figure out how the sliding mechanism works.

The curtain is controlled using a cord that moves runners along the profile and hangs from the outside with a special plumb line. This is the same rope, looped throughout the entire mechanism, so by pulling the “tail” you set the entire structure in motion.

It happens that the cords located in the profile are controlled by a chain that is led out. This is convenient if the window is very wide (more than 6 meters) and you need to install controls on both sides.

The methods for opening curtains can also be different. For example, the canvases can move in one direction, or in different directions - towards the center and away from the center. There is even a multi-sided type of mechanism - for cases when the curtains consist of more than two panels.

Ball mechanism

The up and down movement is done using a chain that consists of small plastic balls placed at regular intervals. They fall into special holes on the drum, starting the movement. The mechanism operates on the principle of a bicycle transmission, the elements are precisely adjusted to each other, and tight joining ensures smooth and uniform movement.

The ball control mechanism is the most common option among roller blinds.

Important! Curtains with a ball mechanism will work for a long time without breaking, if you do not move them jerkily with great force. Careless movements can break the chain or damage individual parts of the device.

Transparent and translucent

The first properties are similar to the usual tulle. They allow a lot of natural light into the room. Most often used in combination with classic curtains. The latter block access to direct rays of the sun, providing soft, diffused light.

Rope

This is the simplest type of design and is often used as a mechanism for Roman blinds. It includes the following elements:

The main cord that connects to the ropes that hold the horizontal slats.
A roller that directs the force from the main cord to the frame.

The rope system works simply - you pull the rope and the curtain rises.
Adjustment of the degree of opening of the curtain occurs as a result of changing the length of the threads (cables), which pull the curtain to any position, folding it into an “accordion” or gathering it into folds.

This simple operating mechanism provides the advantage that such curtains can be hung even on a curved surface.

Automatic control

Relatively new products are mechanisms equipped with an electric drive. This is a modern device that can work automatically, without physical effort on the part of a person. The design is equipped with a small motor, which is located in the shaft and ensures the raising and lowering of the curtains.

Automatic electric curtain rods with electric drive come in several types and have different purposes.

In this case, control occurs using a remote control. By pressing the appropriate buttons, you can move and stop the curtain at the desired level. Electrical structures are a modern component of a smart home; they can be controlled individually for each set, or comprehensively for a room.

Automatic curtains are really very convenient.

This product costs an order of magnitude more than previous options, but it is more functional and practical in everyday life. The mechanism can be equipped with curtains of various weights, shapes and volumes. This is especially convenient when they are too high.

It is important to choose the right profile cornice for the type of curtains you are going to use.

What curtains is it suitable for?

The above designs are used for various types of curtains that open upward. They have fixed parameters and are not adjustable in width. As a rule, the area of the canvas coincides with the size of the window opening. Often such products are called flat curtains, since when open they present a flat surface without folds or sagging.

It is comfortable to use such designs, they look beautiful and can complement any room design.

All lifting curtains can be divided into several large groups:

Roller blinds. This is essentially a wide strip of fabric that is wound around a shaft, freeing up space. It is easy to move up and down and leave in the desired position.

Note! Sometimes consumers confuse thin strip blinds with roller blinds. But these are completely different products. The latter are more practical and effective. They do not require washing, do not attract large quantities of dust, and can provide denser and better-quality darkness on sunny days.

Roman. Curtains consist of separate horizontal sections, between which thin slats are inserted. As the canvas rises, it falls in uniform folds across its entire width.
English. These models are similar to previous products, but are distinguished by greater fluffiness of the folds due to additional volumes of fabric.
Austrian. They are divided into vertical sections, between which, when lifted, wavy folds are formed. Even when deflated, the canvas is slightly gathered at the bottom.
French. They are similar to the Austrian models, with one difference: they have more small folds.

All these curtains can provide reliable protection of the room from direct sunlight, save space and complement the interior design of the interior. Their movement is carried out using different structures, most of which can be installed independently.

When decorating a window, they look very elegant, create an original and unique design and bring a special charm to the room.

What is the difference between the Uni 1 and Uni 2 models

Uni 1 and Uni 2 curtains.

The Uni 1 design is better hidden on the window, which is due to the low frame at the top and flattened guides on the sides. For comparison, the top cassette of the Uni 2 model has a 10mm thick backing. Due to this, the size of the side guides increases.

Guide shape

The roller blind fabric Uni 1 is closed on the sides with flat slats. This helps reduce the distance from the woven material to the glass. For comparison, the design of the Uni 2 model provides U-shaped guides. This is due to the presence of an upper backing under the cassette, which makes it possible to raise the height of the side bars. As a result, the edge of the roller blind fabric is brought inside the guides, thereby eliminating the risk of direct contact with moisture.

Distance between fabric and glass

Considering that the Uni 1 model is installed in the space between the window beads, there is not enough space left to move the edge of the panel outside the glass unit. As a result, the woven material comes into contact with it. This can lead to loss of functionality of the structure and damage to the fabric if condensation appears in cold weather. The Uni 2 model has the advantage that, thanks to the shape of the guides, the canvas extends beyond the glass unit and does not touch the light-transmitting part of the window block. As a result, contact with moisture on the glass surface is eliminated.

Weight location

The lower bar is provided for both types of roller blinds. However, its position differs between the Uni 1 and Uni 2 models. Thus, in the first case, the distance is not enough to cover the lower glazing bead: the weighting agent does not extend beyond the glass unit. This option has more disadvantages. For example, if the window geometry is not ideal, a gap may form at the bottom between the bead and the weighting material. The design of the Uni 2 model provides for the possibility of the bottom bar extending beyond the glass unit. This is due to higher guides and the presence of a substrate at the top cassette.

Restrictions when opening a window

Considering that the Uni 2 model has a slightly higher frame height than its Uni 1 counterpart, in this case there is a difference in the opening angle of the sash. The Uni curtain has 1 small cassette, so the window opens stronger. The difference between the opening angle of this model and Uni 2 is 11°, since the latter of the options rests on the slope with the upper box.

Places for installation

Installation of roller blinds.

The roller blind version Uni 1 is simultaneously fixed in various ways: with self-tapping screws in the upper part (the box is attached), double-sided tape on the sides (used to install guides).

Necessary conditions for installation: rectangular or trapezoidal bead with a height of at least 10 mm. The Uni 2 model is universal, installed on a plastic profile using self-tapping screws or double-sided tape.

Features of installing curtains with a mechanism

The lift curtain can be installed in the following places:

on the sash,
on the window frame,
to the surface of the wall,
on the ceiling.

If installation is carried out directly on the window frame or sash, then construction Velcro can be used. This will avoid unnecessary holes in the walls. Scotch tape will be the best solution if the structural elements are made of plastic and weigh little, and the curtains are also light and small.

Velcro curtains are a godsend for those who appreciate laconic simplicity.

But sometimes you can’t do without drilling. This is true in cases with wooden frames, or when installation is carried out on the surface of a wall or ceiling. Self-tapping screws can provide a tighter and more reliable grip. If you have to dismantle the window, the product will remain in place.

Self-tapping screws are the most reliable fastenings for such mechanisms.

Additional Information! If the room has suspended or suspended ceilings, then for reliable fastening they should be reinforced with additional components. Often a wooden beam is used for these purposes.

How to disassemble the mechanism

Sometimes situations arise in which it is important to know how to properly and safely disassemble the roller blind mechanism yourself. This happens when repairs or cleaning are needed. There are several universal tips on how to disassemble a cornice:

Peel off the tape that secures the product. We unscrew the screws if they were used as fasteners.
The main body of the structure can be removed.
After removing the side plugs, take out the fabric roll.

If you decide to repair the mechanism yourself, do it very carefully.
Functional items should be carefully folded so that you can put everything back together without any problems. The product is assembled in the reverse order. There is no need to rush or use force; all elements are easily connected to each other if they are in working order and installed correctly.

For self-installation of roller blinds on a window, the open type is most often purchased.

Examples of cassette curtains in the interior

Cassette roller blinds make it possible to decorate any window so that it becomes not only a functional part of the room, but also a real highlight in the designer’s overall idea

How to make a mechanism for roller blinds with your own hands

You can also make a mechanism for roller blinds with your own hands. This does not require complex tools or special professional skills. All you need is care and careful preparation. Having measured the width and length of the niche in advance, you can begin selecting spare parts.

To begin, you should prepare the following tools and workpieces:

A wooden plank for the base, a block as a rod for the bundle.
A part that acts as a weighting agent (a piece of thin reinforcement, a wooden plank).
Stapler, drill, screws, several bearings.
Pipe with a longitudinal slot.

Not only a professional craftsman, but also anyone can make a mechanism for roller blinds with their own hands.
Having prepared everything you need, we begin to assemble the suspension profile:

Using a screwdriver, we secure the plank - the basis for the future cornice.
We put bearings on the block that will be the rod so that it sits tightly inside the pipe.
Next, the canvas is attached to it with a stapler.
Everything is inserted into the pipe, the textiles are released through the hole. A homemade cassette is attached to a base on the wall.
We put a weighting agent in the lower part of the product.

Note! If you have no experience in such types of activities, it is better to mount the housing above the window, where it will be easier to calculate and drill everything without damaging the glass unit or wood.

They are easy to use and are characterized by optimal cost.

Curtains that extend vertically are a stylish and beautiful element of modern decor. By making the lifting mechanism yourself, you can not only save money, but also get a decor that is ideal for specific conditions!

The main malfunctions of the lifting mechanisms of Roman blinds, troubleshooting methods

Repairing at home does not cause much trouble if you know and are prepared for breakdowns in the control mechanism. The most common cause is chafing of the cords that raise and lower the blade. If this problem occurs regularly, you should completely replace the braid with a denser material.

When choosing a color, it is worth considering the overall design of the room. It is desirable that they be harmoniously combined with furniture, wallpaper or other decorative elements.

If chafing occurs due to the metal ring to which it is attached, we recommend replacing it with a plastic variety. To do this, you just need to remove the tape fastening element and replace it.

The use of translucent Roman models allows you to maintain uniform and natural lighting in the room.

Another common malfunction is the problem with automatic position fixation. To fix it, you will need to install a new control unit. For some models, you will have to completely disassemble the device and replace it with a new one.

Canvases chosen to contrast or match the overall interior of the living room can emphasize the exclusivity of the entire room.

Do wrinkles appear in the wrong place when lifting the fabric? This can happen because the material used in the Roman blind is not heavy enough. This situation can be corrected by using additional weights along the bottom edge.

Roman blinds will become a very stylish and elegant element of the kitchen and will create a homely atmosphere in it.

The electrical control mechanism requires more careful maintenance. For prevention, you will need to regularly lubricate the units and technically inspect all components. If the electric drive fails, the services of a professional technician will be required.

The photo shows the interior of a modern kitchen with cascading Roman curtains.

Sometimes the chain breaks directly from the equipment. This can happen with careful efforts during operation. Repairing such a fault is extremely difficult, because it requires certain knowledge and skills. If incorrect tools are used, there is a risk of damage to the entire lifting unit. Using careful movements, you must try to insert the chain into the right place - into the lock. To securely fix it, glue it.

When choosing fabric for Roman blinds, you should take into account the design of the room and personal taste preferences.

Jamming of matter during lifting or lowering. This problem most often occurs after five years of service and on products with a plastic chain. This is due to the fact that the balls of the chain slide towards each other, therefore the distance changes and they do not fit correctly into the grooves. The solution is to replace the chain with a new product. To avoid such problems, it is better to choose a metal chain. Additionally, it may be necessary to replace the control device.

Double Roman models in the interior of a children's room.

Roller blinds and Roman blinds are especially popular among designers due to their beautiful appearance, ease of use and a huge selection of designs. Lifting mechanisms allow you to adjust the amount of light in the room, while all actions are carried out effortlessly, in some cases remotely. To choose the right accessory, you need to understand the features of the device and the installation method, as discussed above. We hope the information has become useful to you and you can easily choose the optimal decor for window openings in your apartment.

The main distinguishing feature of such slouchy models is that they retain drapery even when unfolded.