Plaster-in Blind Concealment Boxes | Blindspace

For the latest product specifications and downloads, please visit www.shadefactor.com.au

What exactly is Blindspace?

Blindspace is a unique solution to conceal any type of blind, in ceilings and skylights. Access is easy, with an integrated panel that clicks out and snaps shut leaving a discreet slot for blind movement. The unique Blindspace design provides an elegant finished aesthetic and is easy to integrate, saving you time in both design and construction.

When in my build should I be considering Blindspace?

EARLY.  Blindspace needs to be considered as early in your project as possible to ensure a) you have enough time to work through the detail with your architect or builder, b) the necessary supporting structure can be incorporated into your design, and c) sufficient lead-time is available for ordering.

What colour options are available?

Blindspace boxes are supplied in a white powdercoat finish including the removable flap.  No other colours are available, HOWEVER, the underside of the removable flap may be painted to match the ceiling colour.

How do I order Blindspace?

Blindspace is exclusively available through Shade Factor in Australia.  Please contact us with your project requirements and we will be happy to assist you.

What is the lead time for ordering?

Allow 2 weeks minimum for standard sized boxes and 3 weeks for custom boxes.

Who do I need to speak to about detailing my project?

Shade Factor only sells Blindspace in pre-cut lengths and does not offer an installation service.  Installation is provided by your builder in accordance with our supplied general instructions.

We strongly recommend providing drawings (available on our website) to your architect so that they can incorporate Blindspace in your project.  Some builders may be willing to work with you to detail where Blindspace boxes will go and how they will be installed.  In general, each box should be detailed so that the fit is correct and sufficient supporting structure is allowed.

Who installs Blindspace?

Installation is provided by your builder or suitably qualified carpenter in accordance with our supplied general instructions.  Professional plasterers will be able to finish off the installation, providing you with that desired seamless integration.

Can Blindspace be retro-fitted in an existing building?

Blindspace can be retro-fitted in many cases to existing buildings, but that will need to be discussed with your architect or builder.  It can depend on how much space is available above the ceiling, whether the Blindspace boxes will interfere with rafters, and a number of other factors.  One method of retro-fitting is to build a small bulkhead below the existing plane of the ceiling specifically to house Blindspace boxes.

What do I need to consider when installing Blindspace in corners?

For mitered corners, it is important to allow extra length for the two Blindspace boxes to be joined together.

The extra length required is equal to the width of the box.  For example, an S100x100 box requires an extra 100mm allowance.

How do I open (pull down the flap on) a Blindspace box?

It is CRITICAL that the Blindspace flap is opened correctly to avoid the possibility of damaging the Blindspace box, flap or ceiling plaster.  Flaps are NOT designed to be pulled down in one continuous length, from the centre OR in one movement.  Instead, start at one end and work along the entire length of the flap, pulling down a bit at a time until the flap is open.  Close using the same technique in reverse.

How is Blindspace plastered in? (IMPORTANT)

Blindspace has very detailed installation instructions which must be read in full and carefully followed.  Some of the important points are:

• Blindspace boxes must be installed into a recess that supports the box on three sides with strong materials such as solid timber or steel along their entire length
• Box sides and top must be glued into the recess with generous amount of construction adhesive
• Plasterboard sits on TOP of (above) the skim-coat flanges in accordance with the installation drawings and instructions
• Countersunk screws should be driven through the skim-coat flanges, through the plasterboard and into solid timber/substrate. Screws must be driven at a minimum every 200mm along the length of the skim-coat flange
• All intersections where the Blindspace box meets plasterboard must be taped with scrim tape e.g. the length of the skim-coat flange
• Skim-coat/jointing compound should be applied to the skim-coat flanges right up to the chamfered edge of the Blindspace box
• Before installation, consider where wiring will enter the box, usually through one end. Where wiring is to go through a drilled hole, a suitable grommet should be used for protection
• Consideration must be given to whether end-caps are used and these should be drilled and fitted prior to the box being installed

Can Blindspace be used in a sloped ceiling/gable end?

Blindspace boxes must have enough height for the lowest point of the base-rail to retract inside the box when the blinds are raised.  If Blindspace is to follow a sloped ceiling, there must be a) sufficient height above the ceiling to incorporate a tall enough Blindspace box, and b) the Blindspace box itself must be taller than the difference in ceiling height at either end of the blind.  In general this means that Blindspace® boxes are only suitable for ceilings with a small amount of rake.  Gable ends are not possible based on the solutions currently available in Australia.