How to choose roller blinds for plastic windows

Differences from other species

Roller blinds (fabric roller shutters) can be classified as blinds for the home, since they have a similar fastening system and control mechanism. However, this decor does not have lamellas; instead, a single fabric surface is used.

In addition, the method of controlling the canvas is different: the slats rise, tightly compressing each other, and in roller blinds the material is wound onto a shaft and a neat roll is obtained (hence, in fact, the name).

Roller shutters combine the positive qualities of all options:

due to the variety of colors and materials, they will fit well into any interior;
they can be combined with traditional curtains;
provide protection from the sun and prying eyes;
the treatment of the fabric gives it a dirt-repellent effect, and therefore the products do not require special care.

If you decide to give up fabric curtains and are wondering what to choose: roller blinds or better blinds, then don’t hesitate - take the former. They are more practical to maintain and look more advantageous, while blinds add a certain touch of office style.

Before you go shopping, watch a video that talks about mistakes when choosing roller shutters.

How to measure cassette-type roller blinds

Correct installation of this system requires competent and accurate measurements of the window structure.

If the beads are straight, then:

the width is equal to the width of the glass, that is, the distance between the vertical glazing beads;
the height is equal to the height of the glass, that is, the distance between the horizontal glazing beads.

If the beads are beveled, then:

the greatest distance between them is taken as the width. Measurements are carried out with an accuracy of 1 mm.

Each kit necessarily includes detailed instructions for installing roller blinds (with pictures).

Varieties

There are two main types of systems, differing in design.

Open

Consists of a shaft and canvas. They are not protected by anything and are clearly visible. Therefore, this type is called open.

The equipment is inexpensive, but in some cases the mechanism can have a negative impact on the design of the room. Also, be prepared for the fact that light will still penetrate from the sides: this is especially important when you are buying decor for a bedroom or nursery.

A weighting agent (made of aluminum or plastic) must be provided in the lower part. It is needed for the fabric to stretch.

Closed

Here the base is closed on top with a protective cassette, and guides are installed on the sides of the opening. This ensures that the curtain fits snugly against the window and minimizes sun penetration.

The design can blend so well with the profile that in the folded position it is practically invisible. Or, on the contrary, you can choose a contrasting frame that will become an effective addition to the interior.

But the system will cost more, and its installation is more difficult.

Installation instructions

As an example, consider one of the options for installing the Uni system.

After carefully unpacking, check the completeness of the product. The control chain is released.
By slightly lowering the fabric, remove the side covers from the control unit located on the cornice.
The product is applied to the window to check (on both sides) the symmetry of the gap between the canvas and the window bead. Use a pencil or awl to mark the locations of the fasteners.
Using self-tapping screws, secure the cornice to the vertical glazing beads of the window.
Place the covers on the control unit and check the functionality of the product.
The places where the side guides will be glued are degreased with acetone or solvent.
Remove the protective film from the side guide, insert its upper edge under the side cover of the control unit and, pressing, evenly glue the guide.
Do the same with the other guide.
Using a control chain, the panel is lowered until it touches the rubber seal of the window bead. Install a control chain limiter.
Install the control chain retainer using self-tapping screws. Place the lid on it and snap it on.

type of instalation

Curtains can be positioned in different ways, depending on the location of the opening and the need to open it.

On a sash window - the most common option, when the drapery directly covers the glass. This way textiles do not interfere with opening the door and access to the handle is not limited. But you need to take into account that it will no longer be possible to open the window to its full width: the shaft on top will get in the way. There are different placement systems: mini, UNI-1, UNI-2. Each of them has its own advantages and disadvantages.
For an opening - good when you want to get a curtain similar to a traditional one, because this way the canvas becomes more noticeable. This modification is also chosen for narrow openings, in which the rod on the profile will look ridiculous, and when the installed strip prevents full opening.
In the opening - an intermediate solution between the first and second, when the product is mounted inside the opening. Used in cases where the previous ones are not suitable. It is better not to use this method in the bedroom because of the noticeable gap.

How to choose a method for controlling curtains on plastic windows

There are several options for controlling lifting models:

Manual. This is the most common method of guidance in apartments and small private houses.
Using a leash handle attached to a movable aluminum profile. This method is usually used for pleated curtains located in places where manual operation is inconvenient.
Electrical control. Usually used for high-positioned windows, if it is necessary to control several light-protection systems at once. Management is carried out using a control panel located on the wall, a control panel (single- or multi-channel), and a computer program (in smart home systems).

Mounting method

To prevent the entire structure from collapsing, you should choose the right fastening.

With drilling - the most labor-intensive installation, but it is more reliable. The integrity of the profile or wall is compromised due to the fact that holes have to be made for dowels and screws.
No drilling - hooks are used for fastening, which are hung on the frame. But practice shows that such a detail cannot be used for all profiles. Another solution is foam adhesive tape, but it will not withstand the massive structure and in the heat it can “float”, displacing the shaft.

Problem two – too much hope for the “no drilling” model

No need to make holes in the window frame, remove the film from the self-adhesive plate, glue it to the holders, then to the PVC profile - and you're done. You can invite your household and show off your creative interior composition.

On the left is an option for installing on a window frame using self-tapping screws; on the right – fastening with double-sided tape

I was invited to admire such a spectacle more than once. It’s beautiful, no doubt about it, but until the moment when the tape won’t hold up and the whole structure will fall. Within a couple of days - if the self-adhesive material is of poor quality. Even the best-quality tape will lose its adhesive ability and sooner or later the curtain will fall off. Believe me: cats who love to lie on window sills are aware of this trouble better than others.

First advice:
“rolls” on a blind window sash are more reliable, safer, and easier to secure permanently, with self-tapping screws.
Second tip:
if you do attach fabric blinds “without drilling” to the frame, do not place fragile objects on the windowsill, do not move an aquarium or a child’s bed close to the window.

Size

According to the standard, roller shutters are made up to 350 cm in height and up to 300 cm in width. If you require large dimensions, you will have to order the product from a special company. But you need to take into account that the object will be heavy, so it would be wise to install the fasteners on self-tapping screws.

Calculating curtains by size is not difficult at all, you just need to decide on installation:

on the sash - the width should be 3 cm larger on each side, and 5 cm should be added to the length;
above the window - add 5 cm on both sides, and the height should be 10 cm more;
into the opening - subtract 1-2 cm from the parameters.

When measuring, take into account the location of the handles so that the fabric does not fall on them (when installed on the sash), or they stick out (when installed in the window and above it).

What errors occur during measurement?

Even if you are sure that you know how to measure a window for roller blinds, sometimes it is impossible to avoid mistakes. To ensure that further installation does not cause difficulties, you need to try to provide for everything. If you do not want to install roller blinds that are too large or narrow, then you need to take measurements at several points.

The most common mistake is to take measurements in only one place. However, sometimes the width or height of typical window openings may vary at several points. Therefore, it is better to measure it in 3 places, and when ordering, indicate not the maximum, but the minimum value so that the decorative element fits.

For roller blinds, it is also important to take into account the dimensions of the roller shutters. The difference due to fastenings may differ by several millimeters. If this is not taken into account, you may end up with blinds that are too wide and extend beyond the frame. This option is primarily inconvenient because the day-night curtain can block access to the handles and touch other elements. In this case, there is a high risk of tearing it off during use.

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Determining the dimensions required for installing roller blinds is not as difficult as it might seem at first glance. Since the height of most finished products is standard, experts advise paying more attention to the width. If you make a mistake with it, then there may be gaps in the window openings through which light will penetrate. For open type fastenings, the fabric can most often be cut, so the wide fabric can be adjusted to the desired size. Write down all the information you receive so you don't forget anything. And remember that individual double-glazed windows sometimes require rolls of different widths. Do not forget to measure each glass so as not to make a mistake with the size.

The video shows how to measure and install roller blinds:

Adjustment mechanism

Raising and lowering curtains most often has to be done manually using a chain. This is a simple and inexpensive method; you just need to pull the chain and the canvas will creep up. If you grab the second thread, the curtain will fall.

This roller mechanism is quite reliable if handled carefully. Otherwise, the chain may break or slide off the rotating drum, and then the mechanism jams.

The spring holder allows you to position the curtains in any direction: opening from top to bottom or bottom to top. In this case, no extra parts are required: just pull the bar on the edge and stop at the desired height. Unfortunately, over time the spring weakens and ceases to perform its function.

Automatic drive is expensive, but also the most convenient option. The position is adjusted using the remote control. Of course, it doesn’t always make sense to spend money on this equipment, but for hard-to-reach windows – for example, tall ones – this is a great solution.

Roll-cassette types

Mini-cassettes are practically the same as roller blinds, only they are assembled into a cornice that looks like a compact cassette. This type is optimal for folding sashes of Euro windows: plastic or aluminum and even wooden. Therefore, the name was assigned to them - roller blinds for PVC windows.

Today, the most popular options are those with a box and guides of the Uni and Rollite systems. The box and guides are made of aluminum. In both designs, strips of double-sided tape are provided on the side rails, with the help of which the guides are glued to the window sash.

Rollite types can be mounted on plastic windows with a minimum glass depth of 6 mm. At the same time, the side guides are equipped with thick double-sided tape.

If Uni systems are mounted on PVC windows with slightly recessed glass (less than 14 mm), then use their modified version Uni 2, which has U-shaped side guides and is equipped with special linings under the frame that move the panel away from the glass.

Cassettes are controlled by one chain. With its help, you can raise or lower and fix the curtain fabric at the required height. A special lock installed on the frame protects the chain from sagging. It holds the chain when opening the window for ventilation.

Materials and their ability to transmit light

Modern samples are made from cotton, linen or synthetic fabric with dirt-repellent impregnation and do not need to be washed. The maximum that is required is to collect dust with a vacuum cleaner and occasionally wipe with a damp sponge and detergent.

Roller shutter fabrics can be of any color: white, beige, colored, dark, plain or patterned. The choice depends only on your taste and the interior of the room.

Light transmittance is often indicated as a percentage. What this is is easy to understand if we take the entire luminous flux penetrating into the apartment as 100%. If the curtain does not allow a single ray of light into the room, then its light transmittance is 0%. Thin textures have little resistance, so for them the indicator does not fall below 70-80%.

The ability to control light depends on the structure and density of the material.

Transparent and translucent - they hide from prying eyes and decorate the space, but have almost no effect on the intensity of the flow. One of the varieties is Burnout. This is a thin material with a burned-out chemical composition and a transparent pattern.
“Day-Night” (zebra) is a double fabric that consists of transparent and opaque stripes. By moving the layers relative to each other, you can achieve complete or partial darkening.
Dimout - This material lets in about 25% of the sun and provides partial shading.
Blackout – light-blocking fabric coated with reflective acrylic. It blocks up to 90% of the rays, so this solution is ideal for the bedroom and nursery.

The surface is made not only from fabric, but also from bamboo. This is a pleasant natural raw material that can withstand high humidity and does not fade. However, it is noisy in a draft and does not suit the style everywhere. In addition, it will not be possible to achieve complete darkness with its help.

Types of window openings and their descriptions

Standard ready-made roller blinds come in two main types:

closed;
open.

You can understand how to choose roller blinds for plastic windows if you know their main differences. Blinds, which belong to the open variety, are a standard model, fixed on an open shaft. This is the simplest type, which includes fabric and the fastening itself. The roll itself is placed on top of the window. The fastenings are not covered by anything. The advantage is that there is no need to drill the frame or carry out other manipulations. The appearance of the window opening will be preserved if you decide to remove the blinds.

Open roller blinds are mounted on large windows either on the frame or on the opening itself. Products of this variety are usually not very large in width, and magnets are used to fix them. They are installed on the sides and help keep the curtains from sagging and from damage when the doors are opened.

Velcro can be used to attach small items. Additionally, even if you were unable to select the correct width, blinds can in most cases be trimmed at the edges.

Control occurs using a chain mechanism. The fabric is wound on a shaft, so you can adjust the required height. The disadvantage of such decorative elements is considered to be incomplete blocking from light, since they can allow sunlight to pass through on the sides. The advantages include ease of installation and low cost.

Large roller blinds usually require the installation of closed-type fasteners. They provide reliable fixation and, moreover, look more interesting in the interior. The shaft is placed in a closed box, which can be made of plastic or metal. Along the edges of the fabric there are special retaining strips that provide reliable fixation.

This type of product is chosen by those who strive for minimalism. Since all fasteners are hidden under a single-color frame, the effect of completing the window opening is created. You can additionally use tulle in the interior.

Minimalism in the interior with roller blinds

The advantage of this variety is also that it provides complete protection from sunlight. The guides thoroughly fix the fabric, so light will not penetrate into the room. In addition, there are double roller blinds (day - night). They alternate light and dark fabric. If desired, you can completely darken the room or make it bright. To do this, you only need to move the strips relative to each other using a control mechanism. It can be manual or automatic.

Which curtain to choose?

Depending on the features of the window, light level, climate and purpose of the room, products may differ.

In rooms with standard window sizes, it is better to install open objects made of translucent fabric or “zebra” on the shady side.

For a living room with a large window opening, I recommend choosing a translucent monochromatic surface mounted inside or on a frame if you plan to combine them with curtains. When the roller shutter should be the only decoration, it is advisable to choose installation on the wall above the window and choose a bright color or a beautiful pattern.

If the common areas (kitchen and living room) are very bright, then it makes sense to buy Dimout to protect yourself from scorching rays.

In a dark kitchen, a translucent or transparent example of an expressive shade or with a pattern will look good.

In the bedroom and children's room, the absolute favorite will be Blackout with a closed cassette system. This will allow you to get enough sleep even at early dawn and in a big city, when street illumination at night interferes with quality sleep.

I’ll share my experience: we have Blackout cassette curtains in our apartment. They really don't let a ray of light through. There are small gaps only on the sides and bottom, but they look like a frame and do not affect the illumination. After we installed them, the child began to sleep much more calmly: he does not jump up at dawn, as before, and daytime sleep lasts longer. So I highly recommend it to all families with small children.

How to hang it correctly

This type of Mini is installed on the window sash:

Self-tapping screws

Having attached the brackets to the frame, screw them into the mounting holes with two self-tapping screws. Next, having inserted latches with gears into the pipe with the canvas, insert it into a standard bracket.

It is enough to press lightly on the pipe, the latches with gears will go inside, and a click should be heard. Finally, bracket covers are installed as a decorative structural element.

Using a metal or plastic spring bracket

Installation is carried out only on the opening frame sash. Hinged plastic spring brackets snap into standard ones and repeat the same steps as in the installation method with self-tapping screws.

In the case of metal hinged brackets, the only difference is the process of connecting them with standard ones - the hinged petals are pre-bent when connecting;

On sticky tape

The gluing attachments snap onto the brackets. Degrease the areas of the window profile where the product will be glued, and heat the tape with a hairdryer. Remove the protective film from it and, pressing tightly, glue it to the surface. The remaining steps are the same as standard. Read more: How to hang curtains on windows without drilling

It must be remembered that, regardless of the chosen fastening method, the uncovered section of the chain mechanism must face down.

Successful models of roller blinds

Check out the 10 best roller blind models. They are all different, for every taste.

Enter promo code VSVOEMDOME on the seller's website to buy curtains at a discount.

Charm (lilac) 52x175 cm for 755 rub.
Day-night (gray-white) 66x160 cm for 1,425 rubles.
Blackout graphite (gray, opaque) 61.5x175 cm for 995 rub.
Lace (white) 57x175 cm for 855 rub.
Blackout Crystal (beige, opaque) 57x175 cm for RUB 1,025.
Accent steel (gray) 72.5x175 cm for 925 rub.
Damascus silver 52x175 cm for 945 rubles.
Byzantium mother of pearl (beige) 52x175 cm for 895 rub.
Mosaic (dark gray) 80.5x175 cm for RUB 1,125.
Coffee breeze 47x175 cm for 635 rubles.

There are also many different curtain options on AliExpress. But if you buy curtains there, be sure to read reviews about the material and the seller.

Photo gallery

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To the office

Roller shutters depending on shaft dimensions

The shaft on which roller blinds are wound can have different diameters:

Standard parameters are within 25-30 mm. They are designed for windows with a maximum width of 1.7 meters and a height of up to 2 meters. This version of roller blinds is used for standard double-leaf plastic windows.

Lux - in this case it is used with a diameter from 35 to 70 mm. You can use curtains of very large sizes - up to 3 meters wide and up to 4 meters high. Ideal for balcony doors and wide windows.
Mini-cassette roller shutters are mounted on a shaft with a diameter of 1-15 mm. These are small curtains for small windows. They look very aesthetically pleasing, since large canvases on small windows look out of place and waste extra space.

Curtains for dormer windows have their own specifics related to the angle of inclination of the surface on which they are attached. In terms of the type of mechanism and dimensions, they are no different from mini-cassette ones, however, they are reinforced with guides and mounted using a spring mechanism that reliably fixes the blade.