Home & Garden Improvements

Roller blinds are made from stiffened fabric that rolls up into a tube and is attached to a frame with two brackets.  There are two main types; those operated by a tension roller and those with a sidewinder mechanism.

Roller blinds are economical, practical, simple to use and their appearance can be enhanced by decoration.  In the early 19th century they were often painted with pastoral scenes or elaborate designs and today it is possible to have photographs transferred to them.  They can have decorative trims such as eyelets or circular cut-outs.  The borders can be scalloped or have a shaped edge with tabs where a bar can be threaded across.  Lace and braid are often used as trimmings.  They can also be paired with curtains to give a softer look.

Roller blinds are ideal for kitchens because they are robust enough to cope with steamy conditions, particularly if they are made from waterproof material.  When fully raised they are unlikely to suffer damage from grease splashes.  If they are made from fire retardant material they will also reduce the risk of fire.

In a bathroom, roller blinds need to be made of a tough material that is waterproof and mould-resistant.  Privacy is a priority in a bathroom, so bottom-up roller blinds are a good idea because they can be raised as high as necessary for privacy whilst still offering light and a view of the outside world at the top.