There are many questions people ask about integrated blinds, so in this article we will try to go through the most important things. As always, feel free to contact us if you have any specific questions.
The question at the top of most people’s list is, of course, price. There’s no way around it: integrated blinds are initially more expensive than regular blinds made of wood, fabric or other materials. But after working with the most advanced sun protection solutions for many years, integrated blinds are, in our professional opinion, a very worthwhile investment.
Why should the blinds come with glass?
Integrated blinds can also be referred to as glass blinds or sealed unit blinds.
A standard double glazing unit (without blinds) is manufactured under controlled conditions. The double glazing must be 100% hermetically sealed to achieve the required U-value for windows and, of course, they must also maintain the standard for many years.
The manufacturing process for glazing where blinds are integrated between the panes is largely the same. Therefore, they must be installed by the same company that manufactures the double glazing itself.
Magnetic or wire control, which is best?
Every supplier will promote their own product as the best. If they produce blinds with cord control, it will naturally be promoted as the best – and the same goes for suppliers of magnetically controlled blinds. Each has their own pros and cons, and we recommend you look at both products and seek expert advice.
Cord control curtains some people may not find as aesthetically pleasing as magnets, which are far more discreet in appearance. However, people with dexterity issues or who simply prefer the “traditional” method of opening and closing blinds prefer cord control or “magic wands”.
Keep in mind that these types of blinds can also be controlled automatically, either electronically or with sun/light sensors.
Can you install integrated blinds in existing windows?
Yes, you can. However, it requires the existing window to support the current method of glazing the windows. Assuming your windows or doors are already double glazed, they should have at least 24mm units. In addition, the existing windows should be glazed with a bead, gasket, tape, pocket or rebate system. These glass retention methods ensure easy removal and reloading, making it possible for you to replace your old double glazing with double glazed blinds.
What colors are available for integrated blinds?
The blinds can be powder coated in any of the standard RAL colors available from leading powder manufacturers such as Interpon Paints, Tiger, Syntha Pulvin, Axalta and others.
Our only recommendation is that you ensure that the RAL reference is the same as your new windows or doors. As an additional check, it’s important to ensure that your windows and doors, as well as your integrated blinds, are powder coated in the correct way.
Why do I need to replace the glass if my integrated blind fails?
As explained above, the units that house the blind are hermetically sealed. Therefore, it is not possible to replace only the glass or only the blind if these are damaged or fail. The entire thermal pane needs to be replaced.
What glass options can I choose for integrated blinds?
Most established and quality-conscious suppliers of integrated blinds will use glass from the major glass processors and manufacturers. This means you can choose any type of glass for your home or commercial building. It can be hardened, laminated, fuzzy and patterned. You can even choose sandblasted glazing, fire-rated acoustic glazing and many other types.
Do integrated blinds work with any window or door?
Generally yes in any outward or inward opening window or door. They will fit bi-fold doors, French doors, regular windows and many other types of windows and doors.
They can also be supplied for partitions, facade glazing, screens or any other type of glassware.
The only area where it’s best to seek advice from us is for sliding windows or doors. Because sliding windows and doors must “pass each other” when opening, the external mechanism, such as the cord, rod or magnet, can often hit the fixed or opposing sliding panel.
Are integrated blinds worth the extra cost?
Of course, budget is a deciding factor for many buyers, but we believe that integrated blinds look better, last longer, offer more features and are the best investment in the long run.
Here are some of the key benefits of integrated blinds.
- They remain sealed, dust-free and will never require cleaning.
- They won’t flap around in the wind or get twisted in drafty rooms.
- Discreet, sleek and elegant, they are in tune with today’s modern homes and tastes.
- You can choose from many control options, including automatic or solar control.
- They are safer than traditional cord-operated blinds.
- Used correctly, they will last for many years, with fabric curtains often being replaced due to use, dirt and simple wear and tear in the home or office.
- Used correctly, they will not be damaged as internal blinds can easily be.
