When you're decorating your home, you don't want the same design everyone else has. That one-size-fits all, out-of-the-box look simply isn't intriguing, and emotionally, it doesn't feel as nice as personalized designs. Hi! My name is Sarah, and I love design. My home reflects not just what's in style, but rather, it reflects something about me, my life, experiences and preferences. In this blog, I want to help you create your ideal home. I plan to write about how to personalise interior design from a functional and aesthetic perspective, as well as tips on saving money, hiring designers and more. Take a look and enjoy.
A good way to add comfort and style to your home's patio area is to install outdoor blinds to a pergola or porch frame. Blinds can block out hot summertime sun, keep the patio insulated during cooler weather, and give you needed privacy from nearby neighbours. Blinds can also add a pop of colour to the space, making it seem cosier and more inviting. When you're ready to shop for blinds, consider a few important details that are actually very easy to overlook, so you don't forget these yourself and are sure to get blinds that fit your space and work as needed.
Insulating properties
While all blinds will add some protection against cold winds, not all blinds insulate a patio space equally. PVC material will hold and trap heat in the patio; this can be uncomfortable during very warm weather or when you're using a grill, but if you want your blinds to provide maximum insulation against cold, this is typically the best material to choose.
Fabric blinds will also provide some insulation, but the amount of insulation they offer depends on the size of the fabric mesh or weave. A very open weave will allow in sunlight and wind, whereas a small, tight mesh will block more light and air from coming into the patio. If you want fabric blinds but need maximum insulating properties, note the weave of the fabric and choose something very small and dense.
Colour
Brightly coloured outdoor blinds can add lots of style and personality to the space, but note that lighter fabrics will usually show dirt more easily, and may need more frequent cleaning. Direct sunlight and exposure to rain and other harsh weather can easily fade those bold colours. If you prefer blinds that are low maintenance and that will last for years before needing replacement, choose a darker, more neutral colour.
Your climate
Since blinds will be exposed to the weather every time they're opened, you need to consider your average weather conditions when making your selection; as said, harsh sunlight will fade colourful blinds, and strong winds and rains can shred fabric blinds. In areas with lots of storms, PVC or vinyl can then be a better choice than fabric. The rigidness of PVC also makes it a better choice if you want to close the blinds during storms to protect patio furniture; these blinds aren't likely to flap around in high winds, so they let in less rain and will offer more protection for items you have stored on the patio.
Share27 July 2017
