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Compose Shadow roller blind in a lounge window with a dog.

Roller blinds explained

How do they work and why should you choose Roller blinds for your windows?

Emily Booth one of the writers at Hillarys

by Emily Booth

In-home Advice Expert

Published: 08/01/2021

Updated: 29/07/2022

Roller blinds are perfect for people looking for a simple, sleek and modern window covering. They're not only a stylish solution for your home, but a practical one too. Here's our guide on how to choose the right Roller blinds for your home.

1. What are Roller blinds?

Roller blind is a single piece of fabric which wraps around a casing and fits into the top of your window frame, either within or outside of your window recess. The Roller blind is operated by a pull cord attached to the bottom of the blind or by a side-winding chain mechanism attached to the blind casing. Motorised controls are also available giving you the option to open and close your blinds remotely.

2. What type of windows are Roller blinds best for?

Roller blinds are suitable for most types of windows and doors. If you have a bay window, you can position individual blinds into each frame, and they’re great for skylights and Velux windows too. They can be made to fit very wide windows and patio doors, but they also look neat and sleek in small spaces.

3. Why choose Roller blinds?

One of the most versatile blind types, Roller blinds come in a range of finishes that make them ideal for use in different environments. Blackout, moisture-resistant and flame retardant options mean that these blinds are supremely practical. But that’s just the start. Roller blinds come in a wide range of colours, designs and fabrics, giving you hundreds of gorgeous looks to choose from. In fact a stylish Roller blind is one of the quickest and simplest ways to really transform a room.  

4. Are Roller blinds suitable for Kitchens and Bathrooms?

Kitchen and bathroom blinds need to be able to stand the heat; and the wet; and the spills and stains that are part and parcel of every busy home.  Our Roller blinds come in a choice of performance fabrics, including flame-retardant, moisture-resistant and wipe clean options.

5. Perfect Fit Roller blinds

Choosing blinds for patio doors, sliding doors and bi-fold doors can be a challenge, especially if they’re in regular use. Perfect Fit blinds are an innovative and practical solution that gives you a neat finish that also allows for easy operation of your uPVC doors and windows. A Perfect Fit frame clips into place onto your uPVC window and the made-to-measure Roller blind sits within the Perfect Fit frame. There are no cords or chains and no need for drilling into your uPVC windows.

6. Electric Roller blinds

If you’re choosing Roller blinds for hard-to-reach windows and skylights, or multiple Roller blinds for a large room or conservatory, you’ll be pleased to know that our Roller blinds come with the option of electric controls. With Somfy's market-leading motorised technology you can open and close your Roller blinds quickly and easily, all with the touch of a button.

7. Beautiful blackout fabrics

While it’s lovely to wake up to bright sunshine, early morning sunlight can have a disruptive effect on our sleep patterns. But choose a Roller blind in a blackout fabric and you can enjoy a restful night, every night.  From nurseries to home offices, Roller blinds in blackout fabrics are a great practical light solution.

 

8. Cosy up with a layered look

Especially in the winter months you may want to add an extra layer of snugness to your Roller blind. Combine your Roller blind with curtains and you not only have extra flexibility when it comes to controlling light and temperature, but you can also explore colour, pattern and texture combinations to create a sensational interior. In this bedroom we’ve layered white Roller blinds and curtains for a chic look.

 

9. Style multiple windows

Instead of using just one Roller blind, fit individual blinds to each of the windows, this looks especially striking if the windows or close together, or for patio doors. It adds an extra design dimension and gives you practical flexibility, allowing you to position blinds at different heights to control the changing light levels throughout the day.

 

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