Looking After the Planet Thru Your Choice of Window Treatments

As the frequency and severity of natural disasters increases across the globe, the move towards more sustainable choices in all aspects of life is also increasing. In various industries as well as personal services, medical, research, education and every other human activity, changes are happening to create an eco-friendly environment.

A Green Lifestyle is Possible

These changes extend to the products used to outfit our homes and other buildings, including the window treatments. We cover our windows with blinds and curtains, not only for aesthetic appeal and privacy, but also to insulate the rooms against both heat and cold. This reduces energy usage and assists in the transition to a green lifestyle.

Consciously Choose Window Blinds that Insulate

There are some styles of window blinds that are noted for their insulation abilities. When correctly sized and installed, such blinds trap a layer of still air between the fabric and the window surface. Roman blinds, for example, are effective at controlling, heat, light and sound. Honeycomb or cellular blinds, so-called because they are made of individual cells combined together, allow air to filter through the cells to provide effective, natural insulation.

Eco-Friendly Materials Available

Buying new window blinds is the perfect opportunity to demonstrate commitment to a green lifestyle by choosing designs made from eco-friendly materials. Some of the options available include bamboo, timber from sustainable plantations and natural fibres such as hemp and organic cotton. They are also available in a wide range of styles, colours and patterns. The sustainability bonus is that some of them are also recyclable.

Natural Fabrics are Elegant, Versatile and Practical

Bamboo can be used to make roman, roller and moving panel blinds and is the perfect material for a classic, timeless look. This amazing natural fabric is versatile, very flexible and well suited to a range of decors. Linen is another natural fabric that has stood the test of time. It has been used for centuries, and when used to make window blinds, it is noted for the elegance that it brings to a room. Timber blinds from sustainable sources are also versatile, available in various styles and colours and can be recycled when required.

Even Cleaning can be Eco-Friendly

All window blinds eventually need cleaning, and it is surprising how much longer your blinds will last if you have them professionally cleaned. Here at Blind Concepts, our contribution to an eco-friendly world is our ultrasonic cleaning process. This method uses high frequency sound waves combined with very small quantities of chemicals and water to remove embedded dirt, dust, grime and bacteria. Your blinds will look like new again with little impact on the environment.

Keep Energy Costs Down With the Right Window Coverings

Property owners currently researching window coverings to either complete a renovation or decorate sparkling, new premises generally focus on the aesthetics of the available products. They spend time choosing colours and fabrics, but often forget to consider one other important element that will have a lasting effect on the comfort of the occupants.

Room Temperatures Affected by Poorly Insulated Windows

That element is energy efficiency, and it is vital to the continual performance of the window coverings, specifically the blinds. While the curtains provide the looks, the blinds work quietly in the background, regulating the light and temperature inside the rooms. In summer, for example, over 80% of a home’s heat is generated through the windows and in winter, the same glass window loses up to ten times the heat as does an insulated wall.

There are quite a few different types of blinds that will assist to control the elements. Some are more efficient than others depending on the climate, how often the blinds are used and the location of the windows. For example, west-facing windows absorb the afternoon heat, so blinds that assist to block this heat transfer are needed.

Honeycomb Blinds Trap Air in Individual Cells

For these situations, honeycomb or cellular blinds are recommended. These blinds are made up of individual cells that trap air and provide a similar level of protection from the heat or cold as double-glazed windows. They are most effective in white or off-white as these colours reflect the heat back out the windows better than most.

Roman Blinds and Rollers Both Regulate Temperature

Closely fitted Roman blinds are excellent in winter for trapping the warm air between them and the window, thus keeping the warmth inside the room. They are also visibly smooth when fully extended and have block-out capabilities that keep rooms cool in summer.

Roller blinds made from UV-resistant or block-out materials will also keep out the heat and are available in a range of colours, fabrics and patterns.

All blinds, including those with insulating qualities, eventually need cleaning, not only to keep them looking great but to improve their efficiency. At Blind Concepts we clean and repair all types of interior blinds including Romans, cellular blinds, roller blinds and many other styles.

We use the latest ultrasonic cleaning method which uses minimal amounts of chemicals and water, but is very effective at removing difficult stains, dirt, bacteria and grime.

Correct Window Blinds Reduce Energy Costs

Panel blinds customised with insulating block-out fabrics are another modern and popular choice that will keep rooms warm in winter and cool in summer. It is important when choosing window blinds to check their energy efficiency as the heat gained and lost through the windows will have a major effect on energy costs.

Window Treatments for Every Situation

Getting the right window treatment for any environment, whether it be an office building or a home, is an important decision and one that, done well, not only unifies the décor, but also affects the liveability of the premises. Choices include shutters, blinds, and curtains, with many variations available depending on current trends.

Blinds are Perfect for Versatility

Blinds in both office and residential settings are a popular choice, as they have some qualities in common. In the home, blinds may be required to give residents privacy from prying neighbours, to screen out noise from a busy street, and to control the amount of light that enters, both day and night.

Plenty of Styles to Choose From

In this situation, the style of blinds chosen could include Venetians, Hollands, roller blinds, verticals, or roman blinds. Some of these are more suitable for high traffic areas like kitchens and bathrooms. Roller blinds, for example, are perfect for a home where there are young children and pets as they are easy to adjust for light and shade, and easy to clean.

Blinds in a home can be used by themselves or in conjunction with curtains, usually in more formal areas such as a lounge/dining space or even bedrooms. The addition of curtains adds extra privacy protection and is an opportunity to include more texture and colour to the ambiance of the room.

Screen Glare a Nuisance

In an office situation, similar to a home, blinds are used to control light and shade, and to create a peaceful and inviting space for staff and customers. However, there are several other important considerations. Too much light entering an office space is disruptive for staff using screens, so office blinds are essential to minimise screen glare.

Energy Savings and Protection for Office Furniture

Correctly fitted commercial blinds save on energy costs as the blinds insulate the windows, reducing the amount of both heat and cold that enters the building. Air conditioning units are then more efficient, saving money. Office furniture and fittings are expensive, so with less sunlight entering, these items will be protected from fading over time.

Regular Vacuuming will Keep Blinds Clean

Blinds in both office and home settings are also easier to keep clean than curtains, which tend to attract more dust than blinds. A cleaning schedule, where vacuuming the blinds is included regularly, will keep them dust and pollution free for some time before they need to be taken down and thoroughly cleaned.

Our ultrasonic cleaning process at Blind Concepts gets into every nook and cranny of your blinds, whatever style they are, and removes dust, grime, and bacteria. We also repair damaged blinds to near-new condition, saving money for both householders and businesses.

Why You Should Ditch Your Cleaning Cloths and Get an Expert

Most homeowners would agree that they choose their furnishings and accessories to create a comfortable and inviting living space. These are moved around or replaced often to keep the overall look fresh, but this usually does not happen with their window treatments. They are more permanent parts of interior design, so they tend to become background features.

Busy People Don’t Have Time to Clean Blinds

When it becomes obvious that the blinds need cleaning, some people tackle the task themselves. However, others ignore the problem because they are busy with work and other responsibilities and avoid looking at the blinds when they get home. Unfortunately, this only avoids the problem when the solution is to have them professionally cleaned.

Clean Blinds Prevent Illness

Apart from the fresh look of clean blinds, there are several other reasons for handing them over to experts. One of the most important motives is to prevent illness in household members and visitors. Blinds attract dirt and dust, and if they are not cleaned regularly, the pollutants and allergens in the dust are released back into the air. Dust attracts microscopic creatures called dust mites, which multiply quickly and cannot be seen by the human eye.

Dust Mites and Bacteria Love Dirty Blinds

Allergy flare-ups and asthma attacks increase in interiors where dust is allowed to settle and where dust mites breed. This dust, especially in humid conditions, then gets damp and over time, becomes hard grime that settles into any small crevice. Bacteria can develop in this grime and cause illness, especially in people with underlying health conditions.

Dirty Blinds Deteriorate in Quality

There are sound financial reasons to hand blind cleaning over to professionals. Blinds and curtains are an expensive investment, and to get the best return, they should be kept clean. Dirty window treatments not only detract from the value of the home but also deteriorate in quality. This means they need to be replaced more often, costing the homeowner considerable time and expense.

Professional Cleaners Use the Right Products and Methods

Finally, professional cleaners have a wide range of processes, tools, and cleaning products available to them. They know which of these should be used for the many different materials now available in the production of window blinds. It is not unusual for a householder to use the wrong method or cleaner on a window blind, causing expensive and irreversible damage.

Here at Blind Concepts, we have a team of people fully trained and experienced in the use of our ultrasonic cleaning system. This method removes all hard to remove dirt, stains, grease, bacteria, and grime from window blinds, restoring their quality and sparkle. We also offer a repair service for blinds that need a little more attention. Call us for a free quote.

What is the Secret to a Perfectly Styled Window? Colour Selection

Redecorating your home is an exciting time where everything is up for change within your budget, including window blinds. Deciding what you want and choosing the colours to suit the newly decorated rooms is an important decision. Getting it wrong will spoil the overall look you have worked so hard to achieve. However, there are some practical guidelines you should follow.

Can’t Go Wrong with White

If the interior needs more natural light to create the popular soft, bright look, the most suitable colour for the blinds is white. While living rooms and kitchens have traditionally had white blinds, the trend now is for white in every room. Just remember that in bedrooms too much light may interfere with sleep, so consider a block out blind.

Consider the Style as a Whole

Choose blind colours that suit the style of the property as a whole, rather than taking an ad hoc approach. A good example is a country style house on an acreage where the décor and furnishings have been designed to reflect a modern approach to an “early settler” look. In this instance, natural earthy colours for the blinds will tie everything together to create a wow factor.

Classy Does Not Mean Boring

This does not mean that you should be overly conservative. With both the minimalist and the country look you can still play around with colour and achieve a modern and sophisticated tone. Blinds are available in many colours and textures, and in a large room you could choose two different colours and place them on alternate windows for added interest.

Establish a Focal Point

A focal point around which to plan the rest of the décor is important for effect. That focal point could be a wall, a fireplace or a window. For a window, a bright colour that matches a sofa or rug creates a sophisticated feel. Take care, though, as too much of a good thing will look messy. Remember that saying used by style icons – less is more.

The Rule of Three

The rule of three works everywhere, even in interior design. Do not add too many colours. The maximum should be three, including the window blinds. More than that and the end result will be overbearing and distracting for the eyes to process, so the feeling will be one of busyness.

Have you overspent and your blinds are still in reasonable condition? Here at Blind Concepts we offer blind cleaning, repair and replacement as an alternative to tossing out your old blinds. Our ultrasonic cleaning process will remove every smidgen of grime and we also repair damaged blinds, restoring them to near new. For a free quote and a twenty-four hour turnaround, give us a try.

Paper, Pen and Tape Measure to Size Your Windows

Are you thinking about updating your window blinds, but you don’t know how to measure them? It is very important to get this correct, as an ill-fitting blind is an expensive mistake that will not serve the purpose you had for it. Fortunately, measuring for standard blinds is not as difficult as it may seem.

Some Advice and New Terms

There are couple of things to note. The first is to always use a metal tape measure as the cloth ones can stretch resulting in an inaccurate measurement. The second is about terminology. A face fitting is where the blind is fitted to the window’s architrave. A recess fitting, like the name suggests, is where the blind is fitted to the inside of the architrave. Each style is measured differently.

Things to Know About Taking Measurements

Always measure from left to right across the window. This is the width and should be written down immediately next to a W. When you measure the height from top to bottom this should be written down immediately next to a H (W x H). A final tip is to measure every window, even though they look to be all the same size. Measure the width and height of every window in three places for a consistent result, then use the smallest number as the windows may not be level.

Measuring for a Face Fitting

For a face fitting, measure the width from the outer edge of the architrave to the opposite edge. For the height, measure from the top of the architrave to where you want the blind to finish. Depending on your preference, this may extend past the architrave so that when the blind is extended, the architraves will be hidden. This is simply a design choice.

Measuring for a Recess Fitting

In the case of a recess fitting, measure the full width and height of the recess. Also check the depth measurement to ensure that the recess is deep enough for the blind to fit inside it. Allow for any obstructions such as handles that may be in the way. If you are fitting a roller blind, also note that the brackets and operating mechanism must also fit inside the recess, so allow for this in your measurements. This will create a light gap around the edges, so if you require a block out effect, a recess fitting may not suit.

If you are planning on a blind replacement and this seems too daunting, our experts at Blind Concepts are eager to help. Blinds that appear to be throwaways can be repaired using our techniques, saving time and money. We are ready to provide a free quote.

Window Treatment Options For Your Home

Choosing window dressings for your home is not as simple a task as it would first appear. Do you have a fabulous view that begs to be shown off during the day, but you need privacy at night? Are you cost conscious and looking for something that will reduce energy costs? These are some of the decisions to be made before selecting any window dressing.

For a High Traffic Area

Known as shades in other countries, roller blinds are one of the most popular choices and they have evolved from a basic model to contemporary styles in different fabrics and fashion colours, some with optional motorised roller action. Also available is an energy-efficient roller blind made of cellular (or honeycomb) fabric specifically designed to regulate indoor air temperature. The best roller blinds are easy to clean and very suitable for high traffic areas.

Going Upmarket

Also known as shades elsewhere, Roman blinds offer a more formal, sophisticated look and are ideal for windows with furniture directly below them, as they don’t drop beyond the window. They create maximum impact in a room when made in a statement print, and the soft, pleated effect adds elegance to any space. Remember, however, that when they are fully drawn upwards, the window will be completely exposed, so they are not suitable where privacy is needed.

Versatility Plus

If you prefer blinds over the shades already mentioned, you will still need to consider the same issues but now you have additional alternatives. Venetian blinds, for example, have been around for hundreds of years, and apart from obvious improvements in style, colours and materials, the basic concept is relatively unchanged. Now available in fabric, PVC, aluminium, genuine and faux timber and other materials, they are one of the most versatile styles available.

Choose Your Slat Size

They are perfect for light and breeze control, with only a quick adjustment to the slats needed to create the desired mood. Easy to maintain with just a quick wipe over with a duster or a vacuum cleaner, they are available in various slat widths, with the narrow option creating a formal look and the wider slats more suitable for casual settings.

Here at Blind Concepts, we are experts at cleaning all types of blinds. We are especially experienced at cleaning Venetian blinds, including wood composite and lacquered or oiled cedar types. In even the cleanest of settings, dirt and grime eventually settle into impossible to reach parts of all blinds. We pick up your blinds, take them to our workshop for cleaning and return them to you ready to hang and looking as good as new.

Don’t Rush Decisions Regarding Window Treatments

Decorating a dwelling can be fun and exciting, but it can also be a daunting process for people who struggle with co-ordinating colours and styles. There are many decisions to be made, such as the colour of the internal walls, the type of flooring, matching the furniture to the rest of the décor, and finally, the window treatments. Is it any wonder then, that sometimes, the windows become an afterthought?

Take the Time to Get the Windows Right

However, the right window dressings is important as it can make or break a room. If not carefully chosen, all the effort put into everything else will be wasted.

The first consideration is whether to install blinds or curtains. This will be a personal choice where cost, privacy needs, reducing energy costs and framing a stunning view are just a few of the issues that need attention.

Window blinds are popular because they are versatile, and are available in a range of styles, finishes and colours. Their clean lines suit the currently popular minimalist décor. They are suitable for common situations such as privacy from neighbours, to block out a busy street, and for light, heat and acoustic control.

What’s not to like about Roller Blinds?

Roller blinds are a perennial favourite. They are simple to operate and offer complete privacy and light control when extended. With many fabric choices available, they suit informal settings and are perfect for wet areas such as kitchens, and bathrooms. If reducing energy costs is a major issue, they are also available in a cellular fabric, commonly known as honeycomb, which acts as an insulator to control internal temperatures.

Plenty of Other Styles to Choose from

For applications such as living, dining, master bedrooms and others, there is a range of other, more suitable styles. Romans are perfect for windows with furniture under them as they are contained within the window frame. Venetians are low-maintenance, elegant, versatile and come in various slat widths, colours and materials, which can be tilted to provide privacy or to control air flow.

Here at Blind Concepts, we offer clients professional blind cleaning and quality blind repair services that are inexpensive and environmentally responsible. We collect the blinds from premises, take them to our workshop to be cleaned using our ultrasonic cleaning process, and return them to the clients, ready to re-hang. Our process does all the hard work, leaving the clients to enjoy their blinds, which now look as good as new.

Curtains Also Have Their Place

Like blinds, curtains are also available in many fabrics, styles and colours. Curtains are perfect for a draped look, adding softness to the décor, as well as elegance to the entire space. Rather than make a choice between the two, many homeowners combine both for a complete look.

Styles May Come and Go But Good Blind Design is Permanent

Trends in interior design are no different from fashion trends in clothing. They both become the “in thing” for a time, with demand for certain shapes, colours and textures desired to the exclusion of all others. However, trends are transient. We become bored with what was once new and exciting, and it becomes tired and uninteresting. This prompts us to look for something else.

Blinds need to be Resilient in our Harsh Climate

This applies just as much to curtains and blinds as it does to furnishings. However, blinds have the advantage of having a more permanent presence than curtains, probably because they are much more resilient. Our climate is harsh, so our window treatments need to withstand extreme weather events, but at the same time, be stylish and attractive.

Current Buying Guides Highlight What is Popular This Year

There are different styles of blinds, some more popular than others. It is also interesting that some of our most favoured types of blinds, such as the Venetian, have been around for hundreds of years. This year, current buying guides used by interior designers have flagged several styles as being the “must haves” for the modern dwelling.

Venetians on Top of the List Again

It is no surprise that, even after hundreds of years, Venetian blinds are still the most popular. The original idea is still practical, featuring a number of horizontal slats joined by cords or strips of cloth.

This arrangement is so versatile that just by changing the width of the slats, and using different materials such as timber, plastic, and UV-resistant fabrics, all now available in an array of colours, this style reinvents itself every season.

Vertical and Romans Still Loved

Vertical blinds are still on the current style list, and although less popular now for formal settings like lounge rooms, they are the perfect product for large windows and even larger patio doors. Roman blinds are still popular, and available in various materials and colours as well as linings to suit different temperature zones.

What’s not to like about Roller Blinds?

Roller blinds never go out of fashion, especially if your budget for window dressings is limited. The basic models are perfect for wet areas, but these days, the more stylish up-market styles feature valances that hide the roller mechanisms, as well as double blinds which are installed on the same bracket and feature block-out and UV-resistant capabilities, in a range of materials and colours.

These are just a few of the choices available this year, but no matter how good they look when they are new, eventually they will need cleaning or repairs to keep that sparkle. Here at Blind Concepts, we are professionals at cleaning different types of blinds. Our ultrasonic cleaning method will gently remove dirt, stains and bacteria. Don’t trust your precious blinds to anyone else.

Take Your Time When Choosing Your Window Dressings

If you make a mistake when choosing window treatments, it is far too expensive an error to make. Once they are up on the windows, the hapless householder must live with them, so taking time to educate themselves on the pros and cons of working through the array of choices saves money and ensures a happy result.

The Value of Research

What does the average homeowner need to know before they spend any of their decorating budget on windows? Quite a lot, especially if they are new to the world of blinds and curtains. Research at this stage is vital and the first step is to take stock of some basic information about the actual windows and their purpose in the overall liveability of the dwelling.

Not all Windows are the same

What type of windows does the dwelling have? Most likely they are not all the same size, shape or style. Some will protect the interior from summer heat but also insulate the occupants from the cold and rain. Others will be large picture windows with a view, but at the same time, need to provide privacy. The rest will be light and airy during the day but block out light at bedtime.

Not all Blinds are the same

Now look at the different types of blinds that are available. Take roller blinds as an example. From the old-fashioned hand raised rollers to classic chain drives and motorised models, this is starting with the basics. Move to the elegance of sheer curtains covering vertical blinds or slim, white aluminium Venetians. Think about what blinds are suitable for hard working areas such as the kitchen, bathrooms or laundry.

Time to Check the Information

With all this information now at your fingertips, it is time to look at fabrics and colours. There are hundreds of combinations to choose from in modern colours, patterns and textures. Check your preferences against the other colours in the home so that everything flows and blends, from the wall and floor colours across to the furnishings and accessories.

What Not to Do

After all this preliminary effort, do not skimp on quality. Buy the best the budget can handle as the elements are harsh on window treatments and quality will last far longer, as well as provide privacy and functionality. At the same time, be creative. Do not become locked into something staid and out of touch.

By now it must be obvious that there is no typical one size fits all, and this is something we see every day at Blind Concepts. Our clients entrust their tired and dusty window treatments to us, and we put our cleaning process to work. We bring them back to life, ready to hang back on their windows to sparkle and shine until the next time.