Outdoor Blinds

What Are Outdoor Blinds?

When it comes to outfitting your patio with the right accessories, outdoor window blinds are a must-have item. Not only do they provide added visual appeal, but they also offer greater control over the amount of sunlight entering the space. With a set of retractable outdoor blinds for patio, you can easily reposition and adjust them to provide shade exactly where you need it. These blinds are typically woven from materials like PVC or HDPE, creating a mesh-like fabric that allows plenty of light to filter through. 

Structure frame and internal mechanisms are commonly made with heavy-duty materials, sturdier than indoor shades, to withstand the elements. Outdoor shades are resistant to warping, fading, and mould.

The advantages of high-quality outdoor blinds

Waterproof outdoor blinds provide shelter from the sun and a layer of defense against rain and wind. They protect both exterior and interior furnishings from UV rays and water damage, while also blocking excess heat and light. With external solar shades, they help to circulate cooler air and keep your patio comfortable all year round. These practical and stylish blinds are a smart investment for any patio setup.

Window sun shades for exterior provide adequate sun protection, deterring heat and UV rays from the interior. They usually come with a neat, small, slimline headbox, offering a simple and effective solution that also helps with energy bills. A vertical tensioned screen acts as the ultimate sunshade and windbreak, suitable for protection of windows as well as any semi-open spaces such as balconies and pergolas. 

Outdoor patio blinds add privacy, diminish the glare entering through the windows, and help keep bugs out and away. In general, outdoor blinds strongly enhance the utility of outdoor space. Deck screens may even deflect rain, provided it’s a drizzle. Due to their woven nature, small holes can still let water through, so it’s impossible to block the rain from coming in entirely. 

And last but not least, they can all make the exteriors appear more attractive.

Types of Outdoor Blinds

Outdoor Roller Blinds

Outdoor roller blinds are a highly sought-after type of outdoor blind that serve to offer privacy, sun protection, and shelter from outdoor elements. They are available in an extensive range of colors, materials, and styles to cater to diverse preferences and can be activated using a variety of mechanisms such as manual crank, motorized, or spring-loaded. Furthermore, roller shades keep insects at bay, which is especially convenient for nights on illuminated porches. 

Motorised Outdoor Blinds

Motorised outdoor blinds, also referred to as electric outdoor blinds, provide unparalleled convenience in outdoor shading solutions. By simply pressing a button, motorised outdoor blinds can be easily operated, eliminating the need for manual effort. This feature offers enhanced comfort, especially for those with expansive outdoor spaces or those who face difficulties accessing hard-to-reach areas.

Outdoor retractable blinds

Outdoor retractable blinds offer the best of both worlds, by retracting in when you need some extra sunlight or expanding out for protection.

Outdoor Blinds Materials

PVC-coated polyester

Plastic outdoor blinds made from PVC material are a popular choice for homeowners. They can create a cosy living area for entertaining or relaxing at all seasons. They can isolate any outdoor areas, from pergolas to hot tub enclosures. PVC outdoor blinds allow for steady temperature control while blocking rain or snow from passing through. 

With their easy-to-clean surfaces and durability, clear outdoor blinds are a great long-term investment for any outdoor space.

Mesh fabrics (HDPE)

These fabrics allow air and light to pass through while still providing protection from the sun's rays.

Canvas

Canvas is the most traditional awning fabrics around, with high heat refracting properties. It’s an ideal solution for window awnings in areas with plenty of hot days. 

Cost of Outdoor Blinds

Depending on the material and installation type, outdoor blinds can be extremely affordable. PVC blinds are cost-effective and simple to install, while motorised blinds and tension screens require a higher initial investment, but pay off in durability.

Outdoor Blinds Design Ideas

The right choice of shade depends on the location and climate conditions. Outdoor or external blinds design adds a contemporary style to the exterior while making the place more energy efficient. The fabric design plays a vital role in both. 

Different ranges of transparency create a different atmosphere inside. Lower percentages offer more privacy and UV protection, while higher rates provide a better view. A low-openness fabric will block the intense sun rays, while less dense dark materials suffice for moderate seasons. 

Cleaning and Maintenance of Outdoor Retractable Blinds

Outdoor blind systems are easy to clean and maintain. Most of them are designed to hold up in rainy conditions, which means they can stand washing, too. They can be gently hosed down with clean water to rinse off pollen, dust and minor debris. 

Occasionally, a more thorough cleaning should take place, with mild dish soap diluted in warm water and a soft sponge. A pressure washer is not recommended, as this may cause the outdoor blinds to rip or tear.