How do roller blinds work?

Collaborative Post

Whether you are doing renovations, decorating, or have moved into a new home and are in need of new window coverings, roller blinds are a popular and affordable choice for any room.

Stylish, versatile and available in a wide range of colours, opening systems, fabrics, materials and sizes, here’s everything you need to know about how made to measure roller blinds in Essex work and why they are a great option.

What are roller blinds?

A roller blind is a piece of fabric that is wrapped around a tube which is affixed to the top of a window frame or door. Depending on the way the blind is operated, the material will slowly unroll and cover the window, then when required, gently roll back up around the tube at the top.

How do you operate a roller blind?

• Chain pulley

The most common type of roller blind use a very simple chain that hangs down either the right or left side and this is the visible part of the pulley mechanism. As you pull one side of the chain, the pulleys cause the tube at the top to turn, and the blinds fabric unrolls to lower the shade. When you then pull the other side, the tube turns in the other direction and the fabric winds up onto the roller to open the shade. 

• Spring tension

Due to the not only the preferred aesthetics but for safety around pets and children, cordless roller blinds are becoming increasingly popular. To operate, you simply need to pull the blinds down and stop when they are in the desired position. When you need to raise it back up, you pull the blind down a short way using a quick but gentle motion, holding it as it then wraps itself back up onto the tube. This clever design has coiled springs inside the tube, held in place by a clutch which is released when the blind is pulled, causing the spring to wind the blind up and down.

• Motorised

Motorised blinds are operated by a remote control and contain a motor which turns the roller for you to raise and lower the shade as required. These are very effective for office spaces or difficult to reach, high up windows but do need power to operate. This can be done by batteries, hardwiring into the mains or solar power.

What type of windows are roller blinds suitable for?

Roller blinds are extremely versatile and can be used for most types of windows and doors:

• For bay windows or conservatories individual blinds can be made to fit into each frame.
• Sash windows can benefit from complete coverage and the option of having full or partial closure.
• Casement windows can be enhanced and styled with the right roller blinds to complement them perfectly.
• They are great for skylights and Velux windows.
• From very wide windows and patio doors to sleek, small spaces, roller blinds can be adapted to fit perfectly.
• Windows in rooms that can be heavy with moisture such as kitchens and bathrooms are well suited to roller blinds.