Types of components for roller blinds for plastic windows

Curtains have long ceased to be an exclusively decorative part of the interior. They protect the room from prying eyes, from sunlight, and prevent drafts. However, not all curtain models can perform the above functions. Among the variety of products, modern consumers have increasingly begun to give preference to roller blinds. Which is not surprising. Roller blinds have an impressive list of advantages and a reliable design. More details about the new generation curtains, their configuration, and control mechanism are described in this publication.

A roller blind is a special fabric that is wound on a small diameter shaft

Roller blinds: brief description, types, variety of configurations

The roll-type sun protection system is a dense, single sheet that can be rolled up as needed. A roll of fabric is wound on a special shaft that has a specific control mechanism. The canvas is made of durable, smooth material.

Typical roller blind design

Among the main characteristics of such curtains are the following:

Effective protection from daylight. The fabric blocks rays and prevents furniture from fading. Protection from prying eyes. Even light shades of paintings do not make the room open to the people around it. They let in moderate amounts of daylight, blocking what is happening indoors from passers-by on the street.
Interior decoration. The design of modern roller blinds is unique. This window design will always attract attention.
Draft protection. Models made of dense materials allow you to additionally protect your living space from drafts and cold.

Roller blinds can be used to decorate windows...

Or close the glass insert on the door

Note! Some buyers often confuse standard thin strip blinds with roller curtains. These are different sun protection systems. The latter are more functional and practical. They do not need to be washed frequently, do not collect dust, and provide an optimal level of light in the room.

Roller blinds can be selected to suit almost any interior

Aesthetic and practical

The use of plastic profiles has led to changes in the design of houses. Heavy curtains have been replaced by functional devices. They are easy to maintain. This should be taken into account.

Roller blinds, often used in modern interior design, are easy to care for and use.

The only disadvantages are that they cannot adjust the direction of light and look a little “laconic”. Although the entire space of the room is used as rationally as possible.

Let us add that plastic windows differ from their wooden counterparts. Ordinary curtains do not look very aesthetically pleasing with such glazing.

Types, configuration options

System type	Equipment, design features
Open	This type of product consists of a canvas, a shaft, a dense tube at the bottom, and a control mechanism. The package of such a product usually includes all the listed parts, special clamp brackets, double-sided tape, and self-tapping screws. The configuration depends on the cost of the kit and its purpose. An open system can be mini or wide. Mini roller shutters are most often installed without the use of a drill - using ordinary double-sided tape.
Closed	Closed roller blinds include a shaft, a fabric sheet, a control mechanism, special guides for roller blinds, and a protective box. Plastic and aluminum boxes reliably fix the material, preventing it from sagging and premature wear. The guides also significantly extend the life of the fabric panels, tightly fixing them to the double-glazed windows. The closed system is most often used for opening sashes.

Roller blind open type

Closed roller blind

Detailed assembly sequence

First, assemble the bracket and fix the parts until they click.
Then double-sided tape is glued to the platform (if the installation takes place on it).
The brackets are connected to the platform until there is a characteristic click.
The structure is assembled on the windowsill first.
Place it on the window sash and mark with a pencil the placement of the left and right landings. Then glue the pad into place under the markings.
The right bracket is installed, and a shaft with fabric is put on it. Next, add the left one, make a note regarding the location of the left site. Then the left one is disconnected from the platform. The empty part must be glued to the marked place on the profile.
You need to place the shaft in the right one and fix the left one.
Then release the curtain and mark the position of the latch.

The process of assembling and installing curtains is quite simple, but requires precision and accuracy

Note! It is recommended to attach the curtain to the sash based on the width of the material. Double-sided tape can only be applied once. Although they are installed quickly in this way - in 10 minutes.

If you are not confident in your own abilities, it is advised to turn to specialists. It is recommended to call a surveyor by leaving a request on the appropriate website.

Another roller blind assembly is proposed, step by step instructions below. There are the following stages of installation on a “blind sash” using adhesive tape:

Use fastenings without self-tapping screws. The window profile must be degreased in advance, markings must be made and the installation locations must be marked with a pencil.
Then remove the protective layer of double-sided tape and attach the brackets. First, they are mounted where the manual or automatic control element will be placed.

Guides: types, materials of manufacture

There are different components for roller blinds. However, guides are considered the most practical and necessary. They act as a reliable fixation of the canvas on the windows, providing maximum protection from sunlight.

Side guides provide complete protection from sunlight and eliminate sagging of the curtain fabric

The retainer also extends the life of the curtains, preventing them from sagging or deteriorating. The guides are attached in the direction of movement of the curtains directly to the window frame. They are lateral, U-shaped.

There are two types of guides for roller blinds

Guides are most often made from two materials:

Plastic.
Aluminum.

Plastic ones are usually included in the set of mini curtains. They are light and practical. However, if handled carelessly, they can quickly break. Plastic is cheaper than aluminum parts. Aluminum profiles are more durable and durable. They are used for wide canvases and can withstand heavy loads.

Introduction to curtains

In order not to get into trouble during manufacturing, and not to regret the decision for a moment, it is better to get acquainted in detail with the new design, operating principle, and varieties of these curtains.

How does the roll mechanism work?

The main element of roller devices is a rod with a circular cross-section, its task is to raise or lower curtains: partial or complete. This is achieved using a cord that drives the shaft. To fix the straightened fabric, a weighting agent is provided in the design. Cords, ribbons or other similar elements act as garters. The location of the bar may vary. In some models it is located at the bottom, simultaneously serving as a load; in other designs, the shaft is attached to the frame or cornice.

Despite the same principle of operation, roller blinds are somewhat different in design. Some models are equipped with additional elements that are designed to improve the appearance and make operation more comfortable. To protect the fabric from dust, some models are equipped with closed boxes for the roller. No less popular are practical roller shutters, which contain magnetic tapes or guides that prevent distortions of fabric rolls.

What will outweigh: pros or cons

Before planning to construct a mechanism for roller blinds with your own hands, you need to comprehensively evaluate the feasibility of such a solution. Therefore, it would be useful to show the advantages of roller blinds, but at the same time point a finger at their disadvantages. Advantages that many will agree with:

reliable protection from prying eyes due to the tight fit to the opening;
ease of installation on the cornice or frame of any window: both plastic and wooden;
maximum free space, which traditional curtains cannot boast of;
roller blinds play two roles at once, because in addition to curtains they are used as fabric blinds;
the possibility of combination with other similar products - lambrequins, curtains, tulle.

This also includes savings if you plan to make roller blinds yourself, since very little materials, including textiles, are required.

Disadvantages, alas, are present in everyone and everything, roller shutters are no exception. Among the “flies in the ointment”:

insufficient variability in light intensity adjustment, which distinguishes roller blinds from blinds;
potential malfunctions if a simple model without guides is selected.

Control mechanisms: types, characteristics, advantages

Roller blinds use special mechanisms to lift fabric. There are three types of lifting mechanisms:

chain;
spring;
electric.

Important! The control mechanism is the most vulnerable part of roll-up sun protection systems. It can often fail due to physical wear, low-quality components, or improper handling.

Chain

The simplest option. The control principle is based on the use of a simple metal chain. It is attached to the toothed edge of the shaft. The chain pulls on the teeth, rotating the shaft. Most often used in open models.

Chain control mechanisms are matched to specific tubular roller blind shafts

The chain mechanism has a number of advantages:

Possibility of self-repair. If the chain breaks, it can be easily replaced with a new one. It is inexpensive and is sold in almost every specialty store.
Simplicity. Control is carried out with one hand. Simple things last much longer.
Possibility of installation from any side. This greatly simplifies the process of using the product for left-handed people.

Important! It is better to choose chains from metal. Plastic products often break due to the high fragility of the material.

Spring mechanism

The spring control method requires special attention. Springs allow you to set the position of the fabric automatically. There is a special regulator knob at the bottom of the weighting device. This is all that is needed to lower/raise the curtain to a certain height. Models with a similar block have a width of up to 1.5 meters.

Installation of a standard spring roller blind

There is an opinion that such curtains can move arbitrarily. However, it is not. They are not subject to arbitrary opening or closing. The design has a special locking device that prevents such phenomena.

The spring curtain can be located both above and below the sash of a plastic window

Note! During operation, the spring system should not be subjected to sudden loads or movements. This can quickly cause it to fail.

The disadvantage of springs is their rapid physical wear. If the window is opened/closed frequently, the springs will weaken. Over time, the mechanism will require replacement.

Electric control: pros and cons

Installing an electric drive is the best way to achieve maximum comfort when controlling roller blinds at home. The position of the fabric will be adjusted using a drive.

For mini-curtains, small-sized electric motors are used, the power of which is sufficient to move small-sized curtains

For heavy curtain models, special electric drives of higher power are designed.

The advantages of the electric control method are obvious:

Possibility to lower/raise curtains using the remote control. This solution is relevant for “smart” homes.
Ease of use of large curtains.
Less fabric wear.
Possibility of setting a timer. In this case, the house will become light and dark depending on the time of day.

Such a control system has its drawbacks. The main one is the high price. The cost of electric models is 30-40 percent higher than standard ones. Other disadvantages include labor-intensive repairs and expensive components, in particular the engine.

Tips for use

If you need to wash them, you should:

roll them up;
disconnect the fishing line;
unhook the weight plug;
remove the protective capsule;
remove the tube with tissue using a screwdriver.

To pull out a roll of fabric, you need to press on the latches located in the side brackets

Important! This item cannot be wrung out. You can iron the curtain with a slightly hot iron.

The advantages of such curtains include:

variety of control systems;
the ability to fix the material at almost any height;
cleaning with a damp cloth;
technology of impregnation of the product with a special composition;
combination with traditional curtains;
Possibility of placement in doorways;
large selection of textures and shades.

The only disadvantage is that the working mechanism sometimes quickly fails.

Lubricating the rubbing parts of curtains increases the service life of plastic parts

Other accessories

In addition to the main components, you can find other useful accessories for roller blinds on the market.

Note! The accessories listed below are not always included in the finished set of curtains and are not required for purchase. However, they greatly facilitate the process of using curtains and make their design more attractive.

Decorative weight. The chain mechanism for opening/closing roller blinds is more convenient to operate if you have a special weight. Weights are sold in various colors and can have different shapes. They facilitate the control process and additionally decorate the design of the window opening. The cost of a decorative weight is relatively small. Some manufacturers include it in a ready-made sun protection system kit.

Weights can be selected to suit various interior styles
Case for weight. It is usually made in white to match the color of the window frame. After installation it is almost invisible. It is used to secure a decorative weight. The case is attached with regular self-tapping screws.
Plugs for weighting material. Plugs cannot always be found in a ready-made kit. Many manufacturers save on them or on their quality. Therefore, during operation you have to buy new ones. Plugs are a decorative element of curtains. They complete the design and mask the unevenly cut edge of the weighting material. The plugs are usually made of plastic. They fit aluminum and metal weights.
Handle for attic curtains. Dormer windows have a special design. Manufacturers make special roller blinds for them. To make their use as comfortable as possible, you can purchase additional handles. The handles are mounted at an arbitrary distance from each other. In the complete set of ready-made models, the handle is always provided in the amount of one piece.
Fabric winding limiter. The fabric should be evenly wound onto the shaft. This can be controlled using special limiters. They look like rings. Such rings act as controls for winding the material onto the shaft. One ring is put on the mechanism itself, the second - on the sleeve located on the other side. Fabric material is glued between them.

Restrictive rings ensure smooth winding of the roller blind fabric

How to avoid mistakes when installing curtains

Installing the curtain is very simple. There are several fastening methods. The curtain consists of a roller, gear, bracket and fabric. The bracket can be spring or static and is attached to the window frame.

Installing roller blinds is very simple and does not cause any difficulties.

The roller and holder are mainly made of metal. The product is attached to the window sash, wall or ceiling. This is more convenient for the owner and fits better into the design of the room. The fabric is attached to a blind or opening frame. You can also fix it along the length of the entire window.

This type of curtain is attached directly to the frame itself, wall or ceiling.

Almost always, the product comes with additional instructions, so read them carefully. From it you will learn step by step about attaching curtains. There are also photos and videos on the Internet that show the process in detail.

On the Internet you can find detailed instructions for installing such curtains.

Roller blinds fit into every room. Due to their shape, they can come in different colors, designs and sizes. Choose the right curtain and enjoy ease of operation.

Photo: examples of window decoration with roller blinds

CurtainsMethods of attaching curtains to the wall and ceiling

CurtainsDescription and types of lambrequins: what they are, what models there are

Step-by-step instruction

Before assembling the roller blinds, they sew the curtains. After cutting the fabric, a “bag” is sewn from it, it is turned right side out and the area that is not stitched is sewn up.

In the part that will be the bottom of the curtain, mark a pocket for the weighting material, place the element there, and stitch it on the machine. However, this can be done in different ways: leave both sides open, close only one so that the weight can be easily removed if the curtain is washed. The most impractical option is stitching on all sides.
The rod shaft is attached in several ways. The simplest is fixation with a furniture stapler (thread). An alternative is to attach it to the fabric with Velcro, one part of which is sewn to the fabric in advance.
Rings intended for a cord or tape are attached at a certain distance from the sides and rod of the structure - 150-200 and 50-70 mm, respectively. To fix them, use two narrow strips of the same fabric. Another method involves making holes in the fabric; they are camouflaged with eyelet rings.
Hooks are screwed into the weighting material. Fasteners are attached to them, which are pulled along the fabric, leading through the rings, they are sewn in the upper part. The tape or cord is attached to the wall using a hook screwed into the wall. When the clamps are pulled, the curtain roll will rise up, and vice versa.
The rod holder is hung on the window - to the frame, opening. In the marked places of the wooden frame, holes are made for self-tapping screws or metal corners are fixed. If the window is plastic, use double-sided tape or plastic fasteners.
The canvas is pulled over the attached shaft, the ends of the Velcro are aligned, then the mechanism is hung in its rightful place and tested. If the product unfolds (rises) unevenly, a more massive “candidate” is sought for the role of weighting agent.

Fabric selection

The PROMA collection of fabrics for roller blinds is one of the most balanced and stylistically consistent in Russia. We follow fashion trends and regularly add interesting new items.

The selection is carried out by professional designers and experts. We deliberately abandoned flashy colors and futuristic solutions.

The collection is based on fabrics of calm tones and patterns that are pleasing to the eye. Leafing through our catalog, you will have new ideas for decorating interiors.

You can view fabric options for roller blinds in the catalog

Alternatives suitable for balconies

DIY roller blinds are a simple option that is ideal for balconies and loggias, but they are not the only one. If we consider other applicants, then a whole “heap” of potential “clothes” will accumulate. You can add to the list:

universal classic blinds;
their vertical variety;
curtains made of bamboo beads;
regular straight curtains;
Roman curtains;
duet: curtains, tulle;
thread products;
pleated curtains.

A small balcony area is a sufficient reason to abandon lambrequins and thick curtains. In such rooms, laconic and simple models will look better. The best representative are ordinary blinds: made of aluminum, wood, plastic or polyester. Space, on the contrary, significantly expands the potential range.

It is very easy to make the most basic roller blinds with your own hands. You just need to be able to sew carefully and handle fairly simple tools. Such work will not take much time, but will bring tangible benefits when you compare homemade curtains with purchased designs.

To find out what “front of work” lies ahead, you need to get acquainted with the process in advance. One of the most practical options for making curtains can be appreciated and “tried on for yourself” if you watch this video:

Quality accessible to everyone

What's the secret? Why are roller blinds unique in their quality? Where is their secret? Let's try to figure it out.

Have you purchased roller blinds, but don’t know how to assemble them into a single structure? First you need to clearly define how they will look in the interior. This refers to the place that is planned to be decorated with curtains.

You can “dress” windows with them, or you can hang them on doorways. It is possible to hang roller blinds on the wall surface.

The main thing is to know how to assemble a single structure from the components included in the kit with the rolled sheet, and to do it as correctly as possible.

Pipe selection

The main rule: the larger the product, the larger the shaft diameter should be. We offer pipes of various diameters to manufacturers. All our shafts are made of high-quality aluminum and have a special groove for fixing the fabric.

Shaft diameter, mm	Curtain area, sq. m
17, 18, 19	up to 3.7
25	3,7
32	5,5
40	up to 8
50	more than 8 (large sizes)

Taking measurements for a window

Preparation and measurements.
Roller blinds can be installed:

inside a window opening;
outside the opening;
for each transom.

Based on the installation option, measurements of width and height are made. The width of the glass including the side beads (elements that hold the glass in the frame) plus 1 mm on each side. When measuring the window, you need to make sure that after installation the auxiliary mechanisms will not rest against slopes or hinges.

Height is measured from the top to the bottom sash. If the glazing beads are round, then the height should be measured so that the curtain overlaps the border of the frame by 2-5 mm. If the frame is blank, then 0.5 mm should be added to the measurements; in the case of an opening transom, 5-7 mm should be added to the length.

The width of the window can vary, so you need to measure it in several places.

What you need for work

To work you need to purchase/stock:

threads, needles;
iron (you will need it to smooth the fabric);
screwdriver;
screwdriver;
stapler;
dimity;
wooden block 25x35 millimeters (it should not be shorter than the width of the window opening);
tube (both metal and plastic are suitable);
fastening elements: self-tapping screws;
two pieces of hooks and rings (diameter about fifty millimeters);
ribbons/laces;
wall hook.

You need to stock up on a lot of materials