{"id":1087,"date":"2017-07-11T13:03:54","date_gmt":"2017-07-11T12:03:54","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.quotatis.co.uk\/advice\/?post_type=project_page&p=1087"},"modified":"2020-10-05T14:00:33","modified_gmt":"2020-10-05T13:00:33","slug":"blinds-shutters","status":"publish","type":"project_page","link":"https:\/\/www.local-quotes.co.uk\/advice\/guide\/blinds\/blinds-shutters\/","title":{"rendered":"Blinds & Shutters"},"content":{"rendered":"

Blinds or shutters are a great way to keep the sunlight out of your home. There are plenty of options available to you depending on the style of your home and the amount of light you’d like to allow in.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

Blinds or shutters are a great way to keep the sunlight out of your home. There are plenty of options available to you depending on the style of your home and the amount of light you’d like to allow in.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":5,"featured_media":1088,"parent":0,"template":"","meta":[],"tags":[],"tax_works":[50],"class_list":["post-1087","project_page","type-project_page","status-publish","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","tax_works-blinds"],"acf":{"testimonials":false,"inspirations":[1096,1100],"faq":[1113,1114,1115,1116],"quote_link":"https:\/\/www.quotatis.co.uk\/quotes.html?keyword=blinds-and-shutters&sqn=115897&spn=810","project_page_element_title":"Types of Blinds","project_page_elements":[{"element_label":"Venetian Blinds","link_to_element_post":{"ID":1102,"post_author":"10","post_date":"2017-07-12 11:05:08","post_date_gmt":"2017-07-12 10:05:08","post_content":"If you\u2019re looking for blinds for your windows, you\u2019ve got a big range of styles to choose from. Venetian blinds are a common type of blind that is definitely worth considering.\r\n\r\nKeep reading to find out more about venetian blinds and why you should consider fitting them.\r\n\r\n

What are venetian blinds?<\/h3>\r\nVenetian blinds are made out of horizontal slats that are attached one above the other. The slats are usually attached together and suspended by a cord. The cord can be used to control how far down the window the blind extends and an additional chord or plastic wand controls the angle of the slats.\r\n\r\n

3 top advantages of venetian blinds<\/h3>\r\nVenetian blinds have several advantages that make them well worth investing in.\r\n\r\n

1. They\u2019re adjustable<\/h5>\r\nLots of people choose to fit venetian blinds because they\u2019re adjustable. You can choose to pull your blinds all the way down and tilt them so they completely block out all natural light, or pull them up to let as much light as possible into your home.\r\n\r\nBut you also have lots of options in between. You can pull your blinds as far up or down your window as you like, which is really handy if you want to block out glare from the sun but still let natural light into your home. You can also choose how much you tilt your blinds, which is an easy way to achieve both light and privacy. They conveniently allow you to obscure people\u2019s view into your home without plunging the whole room into darkness.\r\n\r\n
2. They\u2019re easy to maintain<\/h5>\r\nVenetian blinds are also a great choice if you want blinds that are easy to maintain. Usually, giving them a dust every so often is enough to keep them looking good and working well. And because they\u2019re made from hard materials as opposed to fabric, they can easily be wiped clean if they get grubby.\r\n\r\n
3. They\u2019re available in different colours and effects<\/h5>\r\nWhen shopping for blinds, the average homeowner is looking for something that they can coordinate with the style and colours of their home. Venetian blinds are a great choice if you\u2019re looking to do this. Different coloured venetian blinds are common, as are wood effect and patterned ones. You can even invest in wooden ones if you want your blinds to match your window frames or floor. So if you\u2019re looking for a stylish way to cover your windows, this might be the product to choose.","post_title":"3 Reasons Why You Should Consider Fitting Venetian Blinds","post_excerpt":"Venetian blinds are most commonly available in aluminium, but they also come in vinyl and wood. They\u2019re a very popular type of blind and are easy to source and fit.","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"3-reasons-consider-venetian-blinds","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-10-29 16:57:58","post_modified_gmt":"2019-10-29 16:57:58","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.quotatis.co.uk\/advice\/?post_type=project_page_element&p=1102","menu_order":0,"post_type":"project_page_element","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}},{"element_label":"Roman Blinds","link_to_element_post":{"ID":1106,"post_author":"10","post_date":"2017-07-12 12:43:15","post_date_gmt":"2017-07-12 11:43:15","post_content":"Roman blinds consist of a strip of fabric that covers the width and length of your window. You raise them by pulling a cord, which folds them into wide pleats. Roman blinds are quite distinctive as, even when raised as high as they go, they still cover a significant amount of the top of your window.\r\n\r\nRoman blinds have several advantages but they also have some drawbacks. To help you work out whether roman blinds are the blinds for you, we\u2019ve come up with their main benefits and drawbacks.\r\n\r\n

Roman blind benefits<\/h3>\r\n\r\n

They turn your window into a feature<\/h5>\r\nA big bonus to roman blinds is that they can turn your window into an attractive feature. Because they remain visible even when raised they\u2019re eye-catching and draw attention to your window. This is great if you want to create a focal point in your room or have a view that you\u2019re particularly proud of.\r\n\r\n
You can coordinate your blinds with your home<\/h5>\r\nMany homeowners also choose to fit roman blinds because you can easily coordinate them with your home. Fitting blinds that are the same colour as your sofa or other soft furnishings is a great way to bring your room together. You can even get your romans blinds made with the same fabric as your cushions to add some wow factor.\r\n\r\n

Roman blind drawbacks<\/h3>\r\n\r\n

They limit daylight levels<\/h5>\r\nA drawback to roman blinds is that they limit daylight levels. Because they cover a significant amount of your window even when they\u2019re folded up, they let in less natural light than other types of blind.\r\n\r\n
They can be tricky to clean<\/h5>\r\nAnother downside to roman blinds is that, like other fabric blinds, they can be difficult to clean. Vacuuming can remove everyday dust and dirt, but stains and marks can prove a challenge to remove. Getting rid of these will usually involve you having to take down your blinds, clean and replace them. This can be challenging and time-consuming. \r\n\r\nSo if you\u2019re looking for a way to add style and interest to your home then you should consider fitting roman blinds. But if you want to explore your other options, take a look at our articles on venetian<\/a>, vertical and roller blinds.","post_title":"Roman Blinds: the Benefits and Drawbacks","post_excerpt":"Roman blinds are a popular blind type and are most commonly found in sitting rooms and bedrooms.","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"roman-blinds-benefits-drawbacks","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-10-29 17:16:26","post_modified_gmt":"2019-10-29 17:16:26","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.quotatis.co.uk\/advice\/?post_type=project_page_element&p=1106","menu_order":0,"post_type":"project_page_element","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}},{"element_label":"Vertical Blinds","link_to_element_post":{"ID":1117,"post_author":"10","post_date":"2017-07-12 15:41:52","post_date_gmt":"2017-07-12 14:41:52","post_content":"Vertical blinds are made up of several vertical strips of fabric hung next to each other. You can use a cord to draw the blinds across your window or to the side out of the way. They also have an additional cord or wand that you can use to alter the angle of your blinds, which affects how much light they let in.\r\n\r\nAre you looking for blinds but are unsure which type to pick? Read on to find out the pros and cons of vertical blinds.\r\n\r\n

The pros of vertical blinds<\/h3>\r\n\r\n

Inexpensive<\/h5>\r\nAn advantage to vertical blinds is that they\u2019re relatively inexpensive. If you need blinds for your window and are on a tight budget then buying and fitting vertical ones could be a great way to go.\r\n\r\n
Easy to repair<\/h5>\r\nAnother benefit to vertical blinds is that they\u2019re easy to repair. If any of the individual panels get dirty or damaged then it\u2019s relatively easy to replace them. This is much cheaper than replacing your blinds and will keep them looking good.\r\n\r\n

Vertical blind cons<\/h3>\r\n\r\n

Noisy in the wind<\/h5>\r\nA downside to vertical blinds is that they can get noisy in the wind. This is because each panel has a plastic piece at the bottom that keeps it in place and connects it to the rest of the panels. If your window\u2019s open, these plastic pieces can knock together and make a noise. This isn\u2019t a major problem but could get pretty annoying over time.\r\n\r\n
Have a functional appearance<\/h5>\r\nHomeowners are also put off vertical blinds by their functional appearance. Although you can customise and coordinate them with your home, there\u2019s no hiding from the fact that they look pretty functional. It doesn\u2019t help that vertical blinds are commonly used in schools and offices, so people tend to associate them with the workplace rather than a comfortable home.\r\n \r\nNow you should have more of an idea about whether vertical blinds would suit you and your home. Chosen your blind type and looking for someone to supply and fit them? Click \u2018Start my project\u2019<\/a>, complete our online form and we\u2019ll put you in touch with up to 4 local companies.","post_title":"4 Top Pros and Cons to Vertical Blinds","post_excerpt":"Vertical blinds are a popular blind type and are often used to cover patio doors.","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"4-top-pros-cons-vertical-blinds","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-10-29 16:59:35","post_modified_gmt":"2019-10-29 16:59:35","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.quotatis.co.uk\/advice\/?post_type=project_page_element&p=1117","menu_order":0,"post_type":"project_page_element","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}},{"element_label":"Roller Blinds","link_to_element_post":{"ID":1120,"post_author":"10","post_date":"2017-07-13 09:13:11","post_date_gmt":"2017-07-13 08:13:11","post_content":"Roller blinds consist of one piece of material that covers the width and height of your window. This material is attached to a roller, which fits on the top of your window. They usually come with a cord or spring mechanism that you can use to adjust how much of your window the blind covers.\r\n\r\nKeep reading to find out 4 reasons why roller blinds are a great way to dress your windows.\r\n\r\n

1. They\u2019re adjustable<\/h3>\r\nA great advantage to roller blinds is that they\u2019re easily adjustable. You can move them to any height to suit the level of daylight you want. You can even get electronically-controlled blinds for windows in inaccessible places. So wherever your blind is, you can adjust it to the level you want.\r\n\r\n

2. They\u2019re easy to customise<\/h3>\r\nMany homeowners also choose roller blinds because they\u2019re very easy to customise. They\u2019re available in all sorts of different colours and prints. This means that it\u2019s very easy to coordinate your blinds with your furniture and other soft furnishings.\r\n\r\nRoller blinds are normally made out of cloth but you can also buy plastic ones. These are great for bathrooms and kitchens as they don\u2019t absorb moisture. You can also get blackout roller blinds if you want to make sure your sleep isn\u2019t disturbed by the sun.\r\n\r\n

3. They\u2019re good insulators<\/h3>\r\nAnother benefit to roller blinds is that they can be good insulators. They can be great at keeping chilly drafts out of your home in the winter. They can also keep your home cool when it\u2019s hot outside. This is particularly handy if you have a room that has multiple windows.\r\n\r\n

4. They work well with and without curtains<\/h3>\r\nRoller blinds are also a great choice because they work well both with and without curtains. They\u2019re compact enough to fit behind curtains easily if you have some curtains you want to keep or simply just want both. But if you just want blinds a decorative roller blind can look great and won\u2019t leave your window lacking.\r\n\r\nSo there are several reasons why it\u2019s a great idea to fit roller blinds on your windows. If you need professional help sources and fitting your blinds, click \u2018Start my project\u2019<\/a> and complete our online form. We\u2019ll put you in touch with up to 4 local professionals.","post_title":"4 Reasons Why You Should Invest in Roller Blinds","post_excerpt":"Roller blinds are a very popular type of blind and are particularly common in modern properties.","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"4-reasons-invest-roller-blinds","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-10-29 16:59:26","post_modified_gmt":"2019-10-29 16:59:26","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.quotatis.co.uk\/advice\/?post_type=project_page_element&p=1120","menu_order":0,"post_type":"project_page_element","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}},{"element_label":"Conservatory Blinds","link_to_element_post":{"ID":1122,"post_author":"10","post_date":"2017-07-13 10:21:32","post_date_gmt":"2017-07-13 09:21:32","post_content":"Buying conservatory blinds can be a bit of a confusing experience. There are so many different types, colours, materials and manufacturers that it's hard to decide which ones to go for.\r\n\r\nIt's a good plan to start by choosing what type of blind you want. Different types look good with different conservatory designs and materials. Choosing the right blinds for your conservatory can change it from an average to a great-looking room, so it's worth investing time to get it right.\r\n\r\nIf you're searching for conservatory blinds but are struggling to decide what you want, we can help. Read on to learn more about 5 different blind styles you could use in your conservatory.\r\n\r\n

Venetian blinds<\/h4>\r\nVenetian blinds can be fitted in conservatories. They are unobtrusive, practical and available in lots of neutral shades.\r\n\r\nVenetian blinds are good for creating privacy without blocking out too much light, unlike roller and Roman blinds. And if you want to let all the light in you can easily fold them up.\r\n\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_1123\" align=\"aligncenter\" width=\"300\"]\"\" Image via Pinterest<\/a>[\/caption]\r\n\r\nIf you're considering buying Venetian blinds for your conservatory, it is a good plan to buy aluminium ones. This is because wooden and plastic ones can warp in high temperatures. Aluminium Venetian blinds are also lightweight so are suitable for uPVC as well as wooden and plastic conservatories.\r\n\r\n

Roller blinds<\/h4>\r\nRoller blinds are a particularly decorative type of blind. You can get them in lots of different colours and patterns to suit your conservatory colour scheme and furnishings.\r\n\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_1124\" align=\"aligncenter\" width=\"300\"]\"\" Image via Pinterest<\/a>[\/caption]\r\n\r\nRoller blinds usually look best if you fit one for each window in your conservatory. This has the added advantage that you can set the different blinds at different levels when you need to.\r\n\r\n

Roman blinds<\/h4>\r\n\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_1125\" align=\"aligncenter\" width=\"200\"]\"\" Image via Pinterest<\/a>[\/caption]\r\n\r\nRoman blinds are also ideal if you want to add colour to your conservatory. Like roller blinds, you can choose colours and patterns that match your conservatory. Roman blinds are good at keeping your conservatory cool and shaded but as they are quite heavy they're not usually appropriate for uPVC conservatories.\r\n\r\n

Vertical blinds<\/h4>\r\nVertical blinds are another choice to think about if you want conservatory blinds. They have lots of draw options, which allows you to change the light levels in your conservatory easily. They are also pretty lightweight so are great for uPVC as well as wooden and aluminium conservatories.\r\n\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_1126\" align=\"aligncenter\" width=\"300\"]\"\" Image via Pinterest<\/a>[\/caption]\r\n\r\nAs they are made of material, vertical blinds can fade, unlike Venetian blinds. However, you can buy replacement blind slats easily to smarten up your blinds if you need to.\r\n\r\n

Pleated Blinds<\/h4>\r\n\r\nPleated blinds can also be fitted in conservatories and are the perfect choice if you want to create a contemporary look. They have a fixed tension system, which means they are less likely to flap around in drafts. They're made from material and retract neatly when not in use.\r\n\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_1127\" align=\"aligncenter\" width=\"243\"]\"\" Image via Pinterest<\/a>[\/caption]\r\n\r\nSo if you want conservatory blinds, you have lots of styles to pick from. Now you know more about the different styles of blind around, you should be closer to finding and fitting the ideal blinds for your conservatory.\r\n\r\nIf you need help sourcing and fitting conservatory blinds, you're in the right place. Click 'Start my project'<\/a>, complete our online form and we'll connect you with up to 4 local professionals.","post_title":"5 Top Choices When You're Shopping for Conservatory Blinds","post_excerpt":"If you have a conservatory, it's a good idea to invest in some blinds. They'll block out the sun when needed and help to stop your conservatory overheating.","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"5-top-choices-conservatory-blinds","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-10-29 17:00:27","post_modified_gmt":"2019-10-29 17:00:27","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.quotatis.co.uk\/advice\/?post_type=project_page_element&p=1122","menu_order":0,"post_type":"project_page_element","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}},{"element_label":"Shutters","link_to_element_post":{"ID":1130,"post_author":"10","post_date":"2017-07-13 14:56:21","post_date_gmt":"2017-07-13 13:56:21","post_content":"When you\u2019re dressing your windows, it\u2019s easy to get caught up in choosing between blinds and curtains. But before you make any decisions, make sure you take a look at window shutters.\r\n\r\nAlthough not particularly common in the UK, window shutters can be a brilliant way to control your home light and ventilation levels. Plus, if you get the right design and material, they can be a stylish and unique addition to your home.\r\n\r\nIf you want to know more about window shutters but aren\u2019t sure where to start, you\u2019re in the right place. Read on for a brief guide on everything you need to know about window shutters.\r\n\r\n

Shutter types<\/h3>\r\nWindow shutters fall into two main types: solid and louvred. Solid ones consist of one piece of material, whereas louvred shutters have multiple horizontal slats.\r\n\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_1132\" align=\"alignright\" width=\"200\"]\"\" Image via Pinterest<\/a>[\/caption]\r\n\r\nIt\u2019s a good idea to pick your window shutters based on what you want to achieve. If you want to control your light and ventilation levels, go for louvred blinds. Most designs let you adjust the slats to alter how much daylight and ventilation enters your home. But if you\u2019re thinking about getting window shutters because you want to improve your home insulation, then go for solid shutters.\r\n\r\n

Shutter styles<\/h3>\r\nOnce you\u2019ve got an idea of what shutter type you want, you need to consider styles. Pick full height shutters if you want to cover the whole of your window, or caf\u00e9 style ones if you just want to cover the lower part.\r\n\r\nIf neither of these styles appeal, then tier-on-tier window shutters might be for you. These are two shutters mounted on top of each other, which allow you to choose between covering the lower half of your window, the top half or both. An advantage to tier-on-tier shutters is that, if you\u2019re stuck between solid and louvred shutters, you can make one shutter solid and the other slatted.\r\n\r\n

Shutter materials<\/h3>\r\nAnother thing you need to consider is the material that you want your window shutters to be made of. Wood tends to be the most common shutter material, as it\u2019s durable and can look great in a range of properties. Hardwoods that resist rot and decay, like cedar and mahogany, are particularly popular.\r\n\r\nIf you don\u2019t fancy wooden window shutters, there are other options. Plastic and aluminium shutters are available and are great for rooms with high moisture levels, like bathrooms and kitchens.\r\n\r\n

Shutter finishes<\/h3>\r\nChoosing a finish that coordinates with your furniture and furnishings is a great way to make your window shutters look eye-catching and unique. If you have wooden shutters you can choose to stain or paint them, depending on whether you still want the wood grain to show through or not.\r\n\r\nPlastic and aluminium shutters also come in a range of colours, so no matter what material you use you can make your window shutters look great.\r\n\r\nAs most windows are a range of shapes and sizes, window shutters usually need to be custom-made. If you\u2019re looking for a professional shutter supplier and fitter, click \u2018Start my project\u2019<\/a> and complete our online form. We\u2019ll connect you with up to 4 professionals in your local area.","post_title":"Everything You Need to Know About Window Shutters","post_excerpt":"Window shutters are available in a wide range styles and materials and can look great in a range of properties.","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"everything-need-know-window-shutters","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-10-29 17:05:13","post_modified_gmt":"2019-10-29 17:05:13","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.quotatis.co.uk\/advice\/?post_type=project_page_element&p=1130","menu_order":0,"post_type":"project_page_element","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}}],"standard_and_laws":[{"standard_and_laws_link":{"ID":1085,"post_author":"5","post_date":"2017-07-11 12:50:56","post_date_gmt":"2017-07-11 11:50:56","post_content":"Blinds sold in the UK have to meet regulations for safety. These regulations make sure that blinds are safe for children. They are part of an EU initiative on child safety. These regulations were published by British Standards in 2014 and became effective in the UK. All new blinds sold in the UK must meet these regulations. Blinds installed before 2014 do not have to meet the regulations, but it\u2019s still important to make sure your blinds are child safe.\r\n\r\nIf you\u2019re considering a new set of blinds, it\u2019s worth looking at blinds which are safe by design. These blinds function without accessible cords or chains. They will usually use concealed or tensioned cords. They could be either operated by use of handles or motorised, or even use a crank handle. Most blinds can be designed in any of these child safe styles. If you cannot fit safe by design blinds, you can use older style blinds with cords or chains, but they must be fitted with safety devices to meet the regulations.\r\n

The regulations<\/h2>\r\nThe regulations cover several different aspects of blind safety. There are restrictions on the length of cords and chains as well as requirements to display visible warning notices.\r\n\r\nThe regulations apply to all blinds installed in homes and in public buildings. They also apply to blinds in accessible areas of commercial buildings, such as reception areas.\r\n\r\nThe regulations work differently for different types of blinds. There are four different types of blinds covered by the regulations.\r\n

Blinds with pull cords<\/strong><\/h3>\r\nBlinds with pull cords must meet the following regulations:\r\n