It’s highly likely that the reason you’re looking for blockout blinds is for increased privacy or blocking light, or both. And while window furnishings achieve both of these in general, these particular blinds are especially built to do so. Much like their name suggests, they offer total blockout capabilities, which can be incredibly useful.
Perhaps you’re trying to keep that pesky, persistent glare of light away from your screen or have an afternoon nap. Or perhaps you’re a night shift worker who needs some decent shut-eye when the rest of the world is awake. You may even need total darkness so your baby sleeps through. No matter what the need is, blockout blinds are known to deliver.
Blockout blinds are some of the best blinds to keep light out. The secret is in the material, which eliminates 100% of light at all times. So when they’re in action, you can bet they’ll do their job. Additionally, they reduce the amount of heat coming in which means better energy efficiency. You won’t be running to the air-conditioner as much!
Blinds control the heat by creating a seal against the window, which reduces air movement to and from the glass. This effectively traps hot or cold air to regulate the temperature indoors. The choice of fabric for the blinds can impact their insulation value, but proper fitting is more crucial in ensuring that the blinds provide effective insulation. Gaps at the bottom of the blinds can allow cold air to circulate back into the room, negating the insulation benefits. In winter, especially, this can lead to cooling and sinking of the air close to the windows. To keep your home warm, it’s vital to use blockout window furnishings that prevent the cold from entering the room.
So on that note, let’s take a closer look at blockout blinds as a whole.
1. Blockout Blinds vs. Sheer Blinds
When comparing these two types of blinds, you should know that sheer blinds refer to light filtering or sunscreen blinds. Both of these are higher in transparency than blockout blinds, as they are designed to filter light. Sunscreen blinds allow you to retain outside views if you have them, while light filtering blocks views both ways. The first is ideal if you have a panoramic vistas, while the second is great if you live on a busy road. They’re also suited if you don’t have a great view. These variations are also typically found with roller blinds.
If you’re looking for 100% blockout, these obviously won’t suit. However, if you want the best of both worlds you can mix and match on a double-roller blind. You can then switch up during the day as needed.
2. Custom-Made Blockout Blinds vs. Readymade Blockout Blinds
To break this down, it is a comparison of tailor-made blinds and retail store blinds. In other words, ‘off-the-shelf’. And while this might be a tempting option thanks to low pricing, in other ways it isn’t.
For starters, the key thing about blinds is a good fit. Otherwise, they’ll not only look odd but also not function to their potential. Whether you want an outside or inside frame fit, specific measurements go a long way. You’ll have a seamless look and blinds that do their job. When it comes to blockout blinds, this is especially important. After all, the whole point is to block out light and have complete privacy. Ill-fitting blinds are contrary to this.
Additionally, your colour, design and styling options will be very limited. Custom-made blinds can be crafted according to your specific needs, which makes them a winner. You can even customise things like the base rail and brackets. Perfect!
3. The Different Types
You’ll find that the style of blind you want is likely available in a blockout option. Roller blinds are the old classic, with their simple, straightforward design. Double roller blinds go a step further. They let you set up two blinds on one bracket, so you can include a blockout and light filter/ sunscreen fabric. This means you can switch between them as needed.
Others like Roman blinds step out of the traditional norm with their style. They are a great way to add character and functionality at the same time. Vertical blinds are also quite widely found, and another one to think about especially for larger spaces like sliding doors.
Then of course honeycomb blinds are a firm favourite too. Aside from offering blockout versions, they come with incredible insulation features. To begin with, they consist of a unique cellular structure that’s designed to trap air. This means better temperature control for longer within the space. They also come in varying styles and cell sizes, for more precise customisation.
4. Why Choose Blockout Blinds
There are several different reasons to choose blockout blinds. From keeping bright light completely away when you need it to improving privacy, they are highly useful. Additionally, they also help you get a restful sleep and are ideal for media rooms where darkness is necessary.
Of course some rooms will be better suited to this solution than others, so be sure to assess each of them well. Then decide whether they need blockout furnishing or something else. In saying that though, remember that you can play with various styles as mentioned above. That way you will not feel restricted by functionality and can have fun with the design process.
Conclusion
You might automatically assume that blockout blinds are limited in variety. However, you’ll be pleasantly surprised to know that the exact opposite is true with custom made blockout blinds. Pick from a range of colours, textures and patterns to suit your unique style and vision. Create bold statements, or opt for subtle nuances that catch the eye. You can match your blinds to your existing theme, or refresh it for a whole new look.
As they’re customised for your exact wants and needs, pricing can vary. However, rest assured we offer many flexible and easy options to go with, and even have a price beat guarantee on products that are like-for-like.
There are so many ways you can use blockout blinds to dress a room up. Browse through our wide range with the help of a consultant in-person. We’ll come out to you, so you can also have a look at potential fabrics in the comfort of your home. Our team has great experience and trained eyes to help you find the perfect fit, so be sure to make use of it!