Roller blinds: why they are so popular
Roller shades have always been a popular choice for budget-conscious homeowners and young graduates moving into new apartments. But now, with the advent of modern custom designed blinds, more and more people are deciding to choose roller blinds over the myriad of other window treatments. So what are the reasons for its enduring popularity?
Affordability – Roller blinds are fairly simple in design and come in different fabrics, meaning they have always been within the reach of even the most price-conscious shoppers. Installation costs are also extremely low, compared to wood Venetian blinds for example. In fact, instead of having to hire specialized blind installers, it would be enough to get a competent handyman to do the same job for a fraction of the price.
Simple Mechanism – Roller blinds are made with a simple roller that wraps around the fabric. This is connected to a simple pulley system that can be used by youngsters or adults. The simple mechanism means the blinds can be ‘opened’ in a matter of seconds, flooding the room with light, or alternatively they can be ‘closed’ just as quickly, ensuring privacy is established in seconds. This simple system means that there is little chance of anything going wrong, however if repairs are necessary, it usually requires someone with basic DIY skills to fix it.
Huge Selection – The choice of fabrics is vast for these blinds and offers great comfort for the discerning homeowner. For bathrooms or kitchens you can buy “washable” fabrics like vinyl, etc. However, for other areas of the home, you can choose anything from velvets and silks to cottons and polyesters, depending on budget and style required. In recent years there has been an explosion of young designers creating stunning prints and original styles at extremely affordable prices. They are great for student apartments, children’s bedrooms, or even the living room of daring individuals.
Cleaning and Maintenance: Roller blinds are the easiest window treatments to maintain. Think of your curtains that need to be unhooked and machine washed or even professionally dry cleaned. Or how about wooden venetian blinds that need special polishing and regular coats of varnish to ensure they maintain their shine. Roller blinds are a dream compared to all of these. They only need a few wipes with a soft brush to remove dust and another rub with a damp cloth to remove the most difficult stains. Instead of spending hours maintaining other window treatments on a regular basis, these blinds only need a few minutes every two weeks to ensure they continue to look as good as when you first bought them.