Transparent curtains - basic materials, design, varieties and mechanisms (105 photos)

How to protect your apartment from the sun: 7 life hacks

The designer told us what to do to prevent the apartment from turning into a hot solarium.
Text: Liza Barskaya · May 6, 2019

On the one hand, the sun is wonderful. Finally light and warm. On the other hand, the sun's rays hit your eyes, burn the plants on the windowsill, and when summer comes, they completely heat up the atmosphere to the point of complete discomfort. A pressing question arises: how to cover the windows so that the room does not overheat?

Curtains

“Of course, the simplest option is curtains made of thick fabric,” says designer Larisa Klyuchnikova. – However, the material should not be dark shades, but light. Since these are the colors that will not contribute to heating.

Those who live on the sunny side choose Blackout curtains. Thanks to the three-layer fabric, light will not penetrate into the room. In principle, any housewife can sew them. You need to decide on the length, width and shade. But you need to understand that there are also disadvantages: heavy curtains will block access to fresh air and will collect all the dust. Therefore, they must be washed at least once every two weeks.

Blinds

“The old proven method is blinds,” continues the expert. - Perfect for both living space and office. There are two types: internal and external.

Internal blinds are very easy to use: they are easily attached to the window using self-tapping screws. The slats (the slats that make up the blinds) can be directed in different directions. The amount of light is adjusted using a special lever on a string. They need to be wiped not only with a rag, but also with a brush to clean hard-to-reach places.

External blinds can be considered monumental. They are mounted, respectively, on the outside of the windows. They can be controlled using a special cord or remote control. Most often they consist of galvanized metal or wood. Of course, such structures better protect not only from light, but also from prying eyes (if we talk about the first two floors). True, they deteriorate much faster due to temperature changes and precipitation.

Pleated blinds

“Those who especially like to invent can make pleated blinds from wallpaper,” says Larisa Klyuchnikova. - They can be hung both on the country veranda and on the balcony. To begin, measure the length of the window (average width 50 cm) and add another 30-40 cm to it. Cut this piece. Then fold it into an accordion (each strip should be 3-3.5 cm). To make your bends as even as possible, take a ruler. Next, measure 10−15 cm from the sides. Make several vertical holes with an awl every 10−15 cm. Thread decorative threads through them and, at the end, a button. Make a big knot so that it holds well. The knot will serve as a retainer. To hang blinds, you need to glue a solid base, such as cardboard or a light slat, onto the very first lamella. Attach them to the window frame using decorative Velcro or wide, thick tape.

Toning

Especially often on balconies you can see thermal protective films that are glued directly to the glass. They reflect the sun's rays and do not allow heat to pass through. You can choose a film of any degree of protection from rays. It does not collect dust and does not obscure the landscape outside the window. You can easily stick it on and remove it yourself without much effort. Leaves no traces.

Foil

One of the oldest methods of sun protection. True, the foil blocks the view from the window. But you can close the window not entirely, but just one section if the sun hits your eyes, for example. Instructions: measure the length and width of it, add 10 cm in reserve. Cut the necessary pieces and attach them to the window using wide tape.

Roller blinds

A very popular and budget option. The curtain is easily attached to the glass unit. Convenient to use: can be adjusted depending on the desired lighting of the room. There is a huge variety on the market for any interior. A huge plus is that they do not need to be washed often, as they are impregnated with a special dust-repellent solution.

Roman curtains

This model is suitable for particularly sophisticated interiors: they are not rolled up, but fold into graceful folds when lifted. Roman blinds are sewn from thick, light-colored and always natural fabrics, and are attached, like roller blinds, inside the window opening. However, they need frequent cleaning as they collect dust.

How to darken window glass

Manufacturers of useful household goods do not stand still and surprise people with their creative solutions. Now darkened glass on windows is not only comfortable, but also aesthetically pleasing. Today, the building materials and finishing products market is ready to offer the following devices for tinting glass:

• self-adhesive films with various properties - reflective, tinted, protective;
• blinds;
• blackout roller and sliding curtains for windows.

Which darkening method is the best depends on the type of window, its shape and location. Sometimes the design features of a window opening simply do not allow the use of a specific type of protection from sunlight. For example, for roof windows it is better to choose blackout curtains of the classic type.

There are quite a few models of tinting films and curtains for balcony and roof windows. They differ not only in appearance, but also in characteristics. The most important criterion for choosing such products is the degree of darkness. If the windows of the house are directed towards the south or west, from where the sun shines with maximum intensity, blackout curtains with a high darkening coefficient are suitable. In other cases, when the light does not bother you so much, protection with a relatively high light transmittance will suffice.

Methods for tinting plastic windows

Classic or roller-type solar curtains are an excellent option if you want to protect your bedroom from the scorching rays of the sun. Unlike self-adhesive coatings, such products can be removed in cloudy weather, when the heavenly body does not penetrate the house with its rays.

Film tinting coatings are well suited for plastic windows in the attic or balcony.

They are often installed directly at the factory, and when purchasing double-glazed windows, you have the opportunity to choose the best solar protection option for your apartment.

If the window is already installed and needs to be darkened, this can be done in two ways: with your own hands or with the help of professional workers. The second option is the simplest, but more expensive. Therefore, it is worth considering the first method.

To darken windows from the sun with your own hands, you will need to stock up on the following devices and materials:

1. Directly, the sun protection coating itself.
2. Stationery knife.
3. Rubber spatula.
4. Spray bottle with a supply of soapy water.
5. Ruler.

Before darkening the windows on the balcony, some craftsmen advise taking the glass out to make the task easier. This method can lead to depressurization of double-glazed windows and damage to plastic windows.

But in any case, before starting work, you need to clean the glass surface from dirt and fine dust, and then degrease it with any detergent. This will help darken the windows in the apartment better. Once the glass is completely dry, you can begin the pasting procedure.

Types of blackout curtains

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Both classic and modern types of curtains cope with the task of providing light protection.

• Classic. Products with vertical folds. The most popular curtains. They can be secured with loops or fabric ties. They can be put on the cornice rod, attached to the latter using a lambrequin frill or plastic (metal) grommet rings.
• Roman or Romanesque. The curtain fabric folds in steps, forming interesting waves on the folds.
• Rolled. The products are wound on a fixed shaft. A special system allows you to open the window to the desired height and regulate the incoming light flow. Roller blinds are often opened electrically.
• Austrian (scalloped) - form horizontal folds. They are lifted using cords secured from the inside.
• French. Looks better on large windows. They represent many narrow festoons assembled vertically. The canvas can be raised to the required height or lowered completely.

• Japanese - smooth canvases with rigid inserts at the top and bottom of the products. They are mixed along the window along a special cornice. Move apart from the center or to one side.
• Blinds – effectively protect from light. Can be made of fabric or other materials. In home interiors, vertical structures are more common than horizontal ones.

The process of applying the sun protection layer

Further actions will not cause difficulties if you are careful during the entire procession. The tinting coating is applied to the glass surface in several steps:

1. Window tint film is sold rolled up, so it must be properly straightened by rolling it out on a flat table. Also, if the size of the coating greatly exceeds the length and width of the glass unit, you need to cut the tinting layer so that at the edges it is half a centimeter wider than the window opening;
2. Then the glass is moistened with soapy water from a previously prepared spray bottle. This is necessary in order to prevent spontaneous adhesion of the film to the window;
3. The protective layer is removed from the darkening coating. The adhesive side is also wetted with soapy water;
4. Now that the glass and film are reliably protected from unwanted sticking to each other, you can carefully align their upper edges. Then, using a rubber spatula, the darkening layer is smoothed from top to bottom;
5. To darken balcony windows efficiently and for a long time, it is necessary to remove soapy water from the gap between the glass and the protective layer. This is done simply - with the same spatula, starting from the center;
6. Lastly, the protruding edges of the film coating are trimmed. During this process, care must be taken not to cut off excess, otherwise gaps may form. But you shouldn’t leave protruding edges either. This affects the final result of the work.

Ideas for use in the interior in different styles

When choosing roller blinds, you should take into account the characteristics of the room. To complement the classic interior, you need to install neutral, beige or peach curtains. If there is no pattern on the surface of the canvas, it merges with the space, as a result, furniture and other interior details attract more attention.

Curtains of pastel colors expand the space, so it is better to install them in small apartments. To make the window invisible, you should place transparent curtains with tulle.

If the interior contains features of minimalism, you can combine a transparent or translucent curtain without a print with a white fabric curtain. The room in the Scandinavian style will be complemented by translucent structures. For a room in an ethnic style, it is better to purchase curtains made of linen.

Sun protection for windows: 4 life-saving options

Still don’t know how to protect your windows in summer? Then I'll try to help you

If your apartment windows face south, you are definitely familiar with the problem that I want to talk about below. Significant discomfort caused by the scorching rays of the sun can turn a room, even with a designer interior, into a real oven.

Looking for suitable designs? Ready-made solutions, decor and photos of furniture for the home. Everything about planning, designing the design, interior and comfort of your home and furniture on the website: ArtPro100.Ru

After all, excessively bright lighting can not only irritate the eyesight, but also overheat the air in the room, which raises the logical question of how to darken the windows in order to avoid such a misfortune.

Since I am familiar first-hand with all the “charm” of the sunny side of the house, I wanted to get rid of this problem once and for all. After asking around among friends and searching through many pages on the Internet, I found several of the most successful (so it seems) ways to darken windows. I will tell you about them below.

How to choose roller blinds for panoramic windows

Roller blinds on large panoramic windows will not hide the space of the room; when rolled up, they are almost invisible; by lowering the canvas, it is easy to hide from the sun or from prying eyes. The design and color of the canvas can be any - depending on the overall interior design for home and office.

Day-night curtains on a panoramic window

For panoramic or French glazing, roller shutters made of translucent fabric or “day-night” models are often purchased.

What is a panoramic window

A “panoramic window” refers to a completely glass wall in a room. They are also mounted:

• on the loggias;
• balconies;
• terraces;
• verandas;
• in bay windows;
• swimming pools.

Panoramic glazing can be created from stained glass, which is especially beautiful on the sunny side. It is better not to hide the play of light passing through colored patterns. Therefore, translucent roller blinds should be used for stained glass windows. If you use cassette models, then the angle of inclination when opening is unimportant.

Panoramic windows in the bedroom

A bedroom with panoramic glazing gives space not only to the room, but also to the designer’s imagination. The room seems to be a continuation of the view from the window opening and it should be decorated accordingly. If this is a country house, then eco-style or Scandinavian or Mediterranean style will do.

Eco-style bedroom with panoramic windows

For a bedroom, privacy still comes first, so it should be possible to completely hide the panorama. For this, roller shutters are used, perhaps in combination with tulle or curtains.

Panoramic windows in the kitchen

In the kitchen, panoramic glazing is usually used in the dining area, since a beautiful view promotes measured eating and leisurely conversation.

Kitchen with panoramic windows

Such designs are usually used in large rooms with the possibility of shading them with roller shutters or blinds.

Large panoramic windows in the living room

In the main room of a house or apartment, a panorama is most appropriate. Especially with a design in the Naturgarden style, if there is nature or a loft outside the window, minimalism - with a city landscape.

Living room in minimalist style

Roller blinds are selected depending on the interior design and lighting of the room.

How to design a panoramic window on a loggia

A loggia or balcony is often designed in the same style as the room, as it is continued. If classic curtains and tulle are used indoors, then roller shutters are installed on the loggia to match the room curtains. If there are roller blinds inside, then thick tulle or fabric curtains are hung on the loggia.

Panoramic fencing with roller blinds on the loggia

Non-standard windows are an original element of exterior design. They require a special approach to the style and interior design of the room. Roller shutters for such openings can be used as independent curtains or in combination with thick or tulle fabric variations.

How to independently attach roller blinds to windows is shown in the video:

Ways to completely darken windows

Some types of curtains help get rid of annoying sun rays

I want to warn you right away: all the window protection options described below have different characteristics and properties. Therefore, before rushing to buy at random, it is better to familiarize yourself with them.

Method 1. Blackout curtains

The first thing I was advised in the process of searching for ideal protection was thick curtains for the windows from the sun. This is one of the most affordable and budget options. Here are a few simple tips that will make their operation even more convenient:

Thick window frame fabric will protect you from the heat

1. Choose thick material for curtains and be sure to have light shades . This way the curtains will heat up less, and therefore will not let heat into the room.
2. If you want to achieve maximum protection from sunlight, give preference to Blackout curtains. Such models are made of three-layer light-proof fabric; they are capable of completely reflecting light and darkening the room.

With Blackout curtains (pictured) you will not be exposed to excessively bright lighting

1. To ensure good darkness in the apartment and at the same time not to buy heavy dark curtains, you can successfully combine several light options with each other. Create an interesting ensemble of curtains of different materials, densities and designs, and turn them into multi-layered protection.

Despite the fact that thick curtains are excellent sun protection for apartment windows, they also have their drawbacks:

• Firstly, such models significantly impede the flow of fresh air into the room.
• And secondly, they simply quickly accumulate dust and need constant washing.

With thick curtains, the question “how to seal the windows” becomes irrelevant

Method 2. Slat curtains

Lamella curtains (aka blinds) have for many years occupied a leading position among the most popular methods for framing window openings. Depending on the specific application, they are divided into internal and external. I would like to dwell on each type separately.

Domestic

It’s not for nothing that lamella curtains have been so popular for many years.

The topic of internal blinds comes up especially often when the question arises: “how to close the windows from the sun on the balcony”? However, this version of curtains is no less popular for decorating openings in rooms. I think there are several reasons for this:

1. Blinds make it possible to easily regulate the amount of light due to the ability to rotate the slats of which they actually consist.
2. They are quite easy to install on the window frame.
3. Designs made from lamellas can fit into almost any interior. And in combination with bright curtains they will create a rather original tandem.

How can you close a window from prying eyes? Simple and stylish blinds of course!

Of the minuses, I would like to note some difficulties in cleaning such products . Some will say that you just need to close them and wipe them with a damp cloth. Personally, for a significant effect, I had to wipe each panel separately.

External

External blinds are made of more durable material and wider slats. In addition to the fact that these are quite effective sun protection systems, they will help hide what is happening in the apartment from prying eyes (residents of the first floors, take note).

With such protection, the sun is not scary for you

Most often, in the process of manufacturing such a lamella structure, galvanized metal is used, less often - wood. The thing is that sun blinds made of wood wear out faster due to constant exposure to rain, light or snow.

Method 3. Roller blinds

Convenience, practicality, reasonable price - these adjectives are quite suitable for roller curtains (well, I love them, what can I do). What are these models good for?

Roller blinds are a simple and affordable way to frame a window opening

1. By attaching roller curtains not above the window, but directly to the double-glazed window, you will achieve maximum adherence of the material to the window, which will prevent light from penetrating from the sides. Naturally, the sun protection of the room will only benefit from this.
2. A wide range of roller blinds makes it possible to decorate almost any interior and type of room.
3. Nowadays they produce curtains with light-proof, light-reflecting and light-scattering effects - take your pick - I don’t want one! Almost all solar roller blinds for windows are treated with dust-repellent impregnation, so you won’t have any problems with cleaning.

Roller curtains can seamlessly fit into any interior

1. High-quality structures completely prevent hot rays from entering the house, thereby preventing overheating of the air in it.

So, when thinking about what to hang on the windows, don’t forget about this simple and effective option. Their installation will not take much time or specific skills. And if you wish, you can make similar curtains with your own hands.

Method 4. Film

The film screen can protect from the sun without blocking your view

Despite many advantages, all of the above methods of protecting an apartment from sunlight have one huge drawback . Such models block the view from the window, and this has to be taken into account.

If a wonderful view opens through the window opening, then you should never sacrifice it. Plus, you have a great alternative to standard curtains: sun screens.

The film is available in several versions, you can choose the one most suitable for you

In fact, this is not a screen in the full sense of the word, but a special, almost transparent film that is glued directly to the glass. I would like to immediately please housewives: this coating does not require any maintenance at all.

Features of choosing blackout curtains for the home

As a rule, there is no need to equip the entire house with blackout blinds, but even if there is, the fabric is selected separately for each room. Most often, blackout curtains can be found in the nursery, in the kitchen, in the office or home theater, as well as in the bedroom. If the room has not one, but several windows, then you can decorate them with blackout curtains of various colors or combine products with and without patterns, selected in the same style.

Buy blinds for windows in apartments and houses.

Blackout in the nursery

In a children's room, Blackout roller blinds allow you to organize your child's daytime sleep, build a sleep-wake schedule, and protect from early morning sun rays. Blackout roller blinds will be a very practical solution for a nursery; they are difficult to wrinkle, stain or break, and even a child can handle the control mechanism.

Children's rooms that do not have wallpaper with an active pattern can be decorated with printed roller blinds, and for children's rooms that already have a design with patterns, choose blackout blinds in calm tones. It is also possible to make custom-made curtains with a specific design, for example, your child’s favorite characters.

Blackout in the bedroom

As in a children's room, in the bedroom there is often a need to create a comfortable environment for sleeping during the day - blackout curtains will cope with this task perfectly. They do not collect dust and will become a very ergonomic solution for the bedroom.

Depending on the interior design of the bedroom, Blackout curtains can be with or without a pattern, light or dark, be the only window decoration or work in ensemble with other fabric solutions to decorate the window opening.

Blackout in the living room and office

Blackout roller blinds in the hall, living room and office perform similar functions, protect furniture and interior items from fading, protect computer monitors and TV screens from sunlight, and also make it possible to use a projector at any time of the day. For the office, as well as for the living room, calm, muted tones are suitable, which will help you get into the mood for work, or, on the contrary, for relaxation, without distracting attention to extraneous details. Curtains with discreet patterns and textured fabrics are also suitable here.

Roller blinds from the SATIN BLACK-OUT collection in the interior of an office or living room

Blackout in the kitchen

Blackout curtains can often be found in the kitchen, especially if the windows face the sunny side. The kitchen is the only place in the house for which it is preferable to choose light shades of curtains; fabrics with floral prints and fabrics imitating natural materials are also perfect here.

Open type blackout roller blinds made of OMEGA BLACK-OUT fabric in the kitchen interior

If the design of the window opening will involve not only roller blinds, but also ordinary curtains and curtains, then one of these products should preferably be a neutral color without patterns.

Blackout curtains for commercial properties

The practicality and durability of this type of curtains has made them popular in the business environment. Blackout roller blinds can often be found in commercial facilities, cafes, bars, cinemas, photo salons, shopping centers and of course, in hotels. And in all these establishments, blackout curtains will perform both a darkening and a decorative function, fitting perfectly into the overall picture.

Blinds for companies and organizations at competitive prices from the Kravis company.

Blackout roller blinds in a hotel room as an addition to the interior

You can put a company logo on blackout roller blinds and use them for advertising purposes, or you can add a picture, a menu, and turn ordinary curtains into a unique piece of furniture.

Roller blinds, including those using blackout fabric, can be found not only in commercial organizations, but also in budgetary institutions, kindergartens and schools, in institutions providing services to citizens, and in each specific place, they perform a specific function.

Blinds and curtains for budget institutions with installation.

Where it is not necessary to create absolute darkness during the day, for example in a hotel or bar, it is possible to install free-hanging curtains without guides. And where the task is to completely isolate the room from light, install a cassette-type blackout Uni 1 or Uni 2.

Partial dimming options

If you do not need complete darkening of the windows, but the question of how to cover the openings is still relevant, the following options will be an excellent alternative:

• Bamboo blinds. They effectively transmit diffused soft light and look great in most interiors.

Bamboo blinds create a luxurious diffused light effect

• Pleated blinds. A model made of pleated fabric is another way to let the sun's rays into the room in a dosed manner. In addition, in some models you can comfortably adjust the height of the curtains, which is a definite plus.

Pleated blinds look very stylish

Many note the sophistication and benefits of the “day-night” model. This option is created using two types of fabric - translucent and dense. Depending on your needs, the system will create weak or strong shading, and will also help if you need protection from the street.

• Marquises. Another way to hide from the scorching sun and at the same time not lose the beautiful view from the window. Awnings made of thick canvas are usually hung outside the opening.

This cute canopy will provide much-needed shade in hot weather.

These cute and original visors do not absorb dirt or get wet. And you will have the opportunity to adjust the degree of inclination or the width of the canopy.

Do not think that such a shelter is good only for a private home; awnings are also successfully used on an ordinary balcony. Believe me, even on the wall of an ordinary Khrushchev building this model will look original and unusual.

• Roman curtains. When it comes to how to curtain the windows in an apartment, I cannot help but mention Roman curtains. They have an excellent reflective effect, and are also quite compact and easy to use.

Roman blinds will not only keep your room cool, but will also give you a more stylish look.

Types of roller curtains

There are several types of roller blinds, varying in degree of darkness:

• transparent - they transmit light well and block the view for prying eyes;
• darkening - reduce the intensity of the rays, soften the lighting and make it pleasing to the eye;
• opaque - do not transmit light at all, often have noise and sound insulation.

A roller curtain combines the qualities of a curtain and horizontal blinds, but it is much more effective than these two options. Such a curtain consists of three parts: a fabric sheet (light-proof, light-transmitting, reflective), a shaft (the fabric is rolled onto it), and a control mechanism (chain, remote control if the curtain is electrically driven).

To prevent the canvas from sagging when opened, magnets are usually attached to the window frame. They attract the metal rail of the curtain, and the fabric does not sag, but stretches.

Blackout curtains come in different sizes, allowing them to be used on windows of different sizes. If one such curtain is not enough, you can cover the windows with several rolls, which does not affect the effectiveness of the darkening.

Recently, manufacturers often offer curtains with bright prints, photo printing or 3D patterns. There are a lot of patterns, textures and shades, which allows you not only to protect the room from the scorching sun, but also to complement the interior in accordance with the design of the apartment.

For plastic windows

Lightproof roller blinds can also be used for plastic windows. They can be mounted on a wall or on a window frame. The big plus is that these curtains can be installed independently.

Roller blinds have differences in the fastening mechanism:

1. Mini - due to the open shaft, the canvas stretches freely over the window and does not sag, it is fixed with magnets and is suitable for any windows.
2. Cassette roller curtains - the shaft is located in a compact box, which is called a cassette. The box can have different colors and textures, is matched to the double-glazed window and protects the canvas from the negative influence of the external environment.

Summing up

I won’t be able to tell you what is best to use as the main protection for a room from the sun, but I tried to tell you about the most practical options. In principle, each of them, if properly selected and installed, can serve well. The video in this article will tell you about additional nuances of fighting scorching rays.

Good protection on windows - no heat problems

Perhaps in this material I have not described all possible and practical options. If you know of other ways to protect your room from the hot sun, be sure to share them in the comments.

What you need to know about curtains?

In order to have an idea about curtains, you need to familiarize yourself with the basic elements of which they consist. After all, design features set the appearance and style of the future window decoration, allow you to choose the best option and organically fit it into the existing interior design.

Element 1: drapes

The basic element of any curtains is drapes. These are vertical panels that completely hide the window opening. Curtains are mainly made from heavy fabrics. They can be part of a complex design using additional elements, or act as main curtains, performing the function of protecting the room from direct sunlight.

Classic curtains with eyelets

Element 2: curtains

Curtains are also straight vertical panels that completely or partially cover the window opening. But unlike curtains, they are usually made from translucent fabrics (tulle, organza, chiffon, mesh). They serve as decorative curtains and are not able to fully protect the room from bright sunlight. The combination of curtains and drapes allows you to create a multi-layer window design.

Drapes and curtains

Element 3: lambrequin

Lambrequin is an element that is used to disguise the cornice. Its appearance mainly depends on the stylistic direction used for interior decoration. Lambrequins can be either contrasting with the curtains or made to match the curtains.

Curtains with lambrequin

Element 4: grabs

Tiebacks are decorative paired parts used to secure canvases in the open position. There are also single elements that allow you to secure the curtains on one side. Typically, tiebacks and curtains are cut from the same fabric. With their help, you can create beautiful drapery and change the usual appearance of the window.

Curtains

The easiest way is to curtain the window opening with curtains. The fabric and the number of its layers are chosen based on how lightproof the curtain should be.

Blackout

So, the blackout model will not let any light through at all. A dense three-layer product completely darkens the room. Curtains are attached to curtain rods and, if necessary, they are moved apart or moved. This allows you to control natural light.

pros

• Curtains are easy to manufacture, attach and use.
• They look attractive.
• They provide the opportunity to complement a variety of interior styles.

Minuses

• Thick fabric attracts dust, so it is washed often. This is quite troublesome, considering that after washing the curtains also need to be ironed.
• Moved curtains completely block the view from the window and prevent the flow of fresh air.

If you don’t want to hang heavy curtains, choose a multi-layer design. Light tulle and two or three sets of thicker curtains. They make up ensembles of different light transmittance, adjusting the illumination depending on the weather.

Roller blinds

Roller blinds or roller blinds are also very good. The canvas is rolled up and secured on top of the sash or opening. In the first case, the fabric fits as tightly as possible to the glass, so complete darkness is obtained.

Advantages of roller blinds

• Compact and lightweight.
• The canvas is treated with dust-repellent impregnation, which greatly facilitates maintenance.
• A wide range of fabrics, including materials with reflective, opaque or light-diffusing effects.
• Easy installation and maintenance.

Minuses

The design has few disadvantages. Perhaps the most significant is the difficulty in selecting a model for a non-standard window system. Roller shutters are available in standard sizes. They will have to be customized, if possible, or made to order, which is expensive.

Roman

Roman blinds are similar to roller blinds. But they do not wrap around the roller, but rise and fold into beautiful folds. They are usually sewn from natural fabrics and fixed to the opening. Their advantages are similar to roller shutters; the disadvantage is that they are difficult to maintain. Because they are rarely impregnated with a dust-repellent solution.

Any curtains will darken the room well. When choosing colors, you should prefer light colors. Provided that the material is dense and there are several layers of fabric, the light resistance of the model will not be affected. But it will attract the sun's rays weaker and heat up less. This will help you get the desired coolness in the apartment.

Quick installation of roller blinds with your own hands

Products can be fixed on the window itself, on the ceiling, on the wall. The installation method must be chosen depending on the style of the room. Not so long ago, ceiling mounting was considered the most popular mounting method. This method has its drawbacks, since when the curtain is lowered, it will be impossible to open the frame for ventilation. Installation on a plastic window opposite makes it possible to open the frames at any time. You can install it yourself in just 5-10 minutes.

Installation on a plastic window system using adhesive tape is carried out as follows:

1. The window frame must first be degreased. To do this, you should treat plastic surfaces with a special product, a solvent, which can be bought at any hardware store.
2. Next, you need to take double-sided tape and heat it with a hairdryer. Remove the protective covering from it and attach it to the plastic frame on top.
3. And the last step is to attach the product itself, or rather its upper part, to the tape, having first removed its second protective layer from the tape.

This is how you can easily secure curtains with tape. Fastening can also be carried out on a bracket made of wood or metal. Such systems will require a little more time, special equipment, and screws. One way or another, without spending a lot of personal time and patience, you can sew beautiful roller blinds that will last for more than a year.

Darkening windows in an apartment from the sun with film

Not long ago, thermal protective films appeared on sale. They are made from a mixture of polymers, which makes it possible to obtain a material with varying degrees of protection from ultraviolet radiation. The films are thin and light. As needed, they are glued to the glass and then removed. There are no traces of protection left, since no glue is needed for fastening.

Types of protective film

• Internal. Sticks to the inner surface of the window sash. It comes in a variety of colors, so you can choose a shade that matches the main design.
• Outdoor. Applied to the outside of glass. It has increased strength, protects against ultraviolet radiation and mechanical damage. The range of colors is limited to black and light gray metallic.
• Spatternaya. Multilayer material with the best sun protection characteristics. The main disadvantage is that it reduces the illumination of the room.

All types of film reflect the sun's rays well and do not allow excess heat into the house. At the same time, they do not block the view from the window and do not attract dust. They are very easy to care for. Self-assembly and dismantling is possible. Before thermal films appeared, foil was used instead. The result was good, only the opaque material completely blocked the view and obscured the room.

How to stick film

It is very easy to apply thermal protection yourself. Choose a cloudy day or a time before the sun has risen. This is a must. The glass is thoroughly washed and degreased. Leave slightly damp. The film is cut to the size of the sash and the protective layer is removed from it. Then press the strip against the glass and carefully straighten it with a soft spatula or just a rag. There should be no bubbles or creases left.

Remove the material from the glass simply by pulling the corner of the coating.

Brownout

If full shading is not relevant for some reason, there are several partial options.

• Bamboo curtains. The plates are assembled into a canvas according to the principle of blinds, but their position cannot be adjusted. The panel is wound onto a roller attached to the upper part of the window opening or frame. When unfolded, they let in soft diffused light, which is very pleasant in the hot summer.
• Marquises. Thick curtains, assembled in the form of a canopy, which is hung outside above the window opening or balcony area. It protects well from scorching rays, while leaving the view unobstructed.
• Day-night roller shutters. They use two types of fabric: translucent and dense. By changing the position of the stripes, you can effectively protect yourself from sunlight or let maximum light into the room.

We figured out how to close windows from the sun with our own hands. These are very simple but effective methods. Using one of them you can enjoy the coolness on the hottest day. At the same time, you don’t have to spend a lot of money or effort to realize your plan.

• Material prepared by: Inna Yasinovskaya

No. 10 (245) September 2019

The IVD.ru website is a leading Internet project dedicated to the issues of reconstruction and interior design of residential premises. The main content of the site is the archive of the magazine “Ideas for Your Home” - exclusive author’s articles, high-quality illustrations, practical tips and lessons. A team of professionals is working on the project in close collaboration with famous designers, architects and leading publishing experts.

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Areas of application for transparent roller blinds

Roller blinds are often installed in entertainment venues. The structures complement a brightly lit window, which is covered with thicker curtains. In schools and offices, curtains are often installed to provide diffused light. In this case, your eyes do not get tired when you look away from the computer.

Bars and restaurants create as much natural light as possible. It attracts visitors because it gives a feeling of security.

Being in such a room, you can take your mind off the hustle and bustle. Roll structures are often used as interior partitions; they are mounted in doorways.

A neutral curtain creates a cozy feel in the room. You can use it to delimit space. The roller blind allows you to make two rooms out of one, creating work and rest areas. Thanks to such a detail, the room is transformed and loses the shortcomings that appeared at the design stage.

Roller curtains are often used to create the illusion of a window. Through their use, the room is transformed. Roller blinds can be used to darken window openings. If the canvas is gray or brown, it seems as if it is twilight outside.

In some cases, multifunctional curtains replace doors. The designs are great for verandas and gazebos. And if you install them in a room where there is a TV, the sun will not irritate your eyes when watching your favorite movies.

Fabric curtains.

To create coziness in a room, it is better to use curtains made of fabric. You can buy ready-made curtains in the store, or you can sew them yourself.

Curtains will protect the bedroom from the bright sun

Usually two rows are installed on the cornice - these are two types of curtains.

The first row is sheer curtains. For this purpose, they mainly use tulle and organza materials, i.e. those that transmit light and are more used for decorating the room space.

The second row is a dense fabric that does not allow the sun's rays to pass through; in the winter, the dense fabric does not allow cold air currents to pass through and hides what is happening in the room from prying eyes.

Curtains in two rows

For thick curtains, you can use, for example, velvet, flock, blackout, jacquard, chenille.

In the city on the Neva, St. Petersburg, there is such a phenomenon as white nights. When it’s already evening, but in fact it’s as bright as day. To ensure that the light space does not interfere with rest, it is better to use curtains made of thick fabric.

Thick fabric curtains will make your sleep more comfortable

Curtain fastenings vary. Previously, there were hooks and it took a long time to remove the curtains in order to wash them, and then waste time hanging them. Hooks are hung on the curtain rod, and a special tape is sewn onto the top of the curtain. Then the curtain is hung on hooks.

Attaching curtains to hooks

The standard fastening is rings with clamps. Very convenient to use. The clamp is released and part of the curtain is inserted. Some curtains simply have ribbons that are tied to a curtain rod.

Rings with clips for fastening

There are curtains with metal rings. For such fastening, you need to remove the entire cornice and thread all the rings into it.

Curtain with metal rings

Application.

Most often, fabric curtains are used in a country house, on the veranda, in the gazebo, in the kitchen, in the living room, children's room and kindergarten. In trains, cafes, restaurants, hotels, holiday homes, sanatoriums, and hostels, curtains of different materials and different designs are also used.

Small thick curtains are installed in cars so that in the summer it is not so hot in the car.

Care.

Over time, curtains become dirty because they collect dust and therefore need to be washed. How often you wash your curtains depends on where you live and whether you have a large highway nearby.

How to care for curtains?

We remove the curtains from the window, usually using a stepladder or chair for this. It is easier and more convenient for a tall person to do this. We wash the curtains in a washing machine, a basin, or take them to the dry cleaner - it depends on what material the curtains are made of and whether they can be washed in a washing machine.

Before washing, pay attention to the fabric composition

If the curtains were purchased in a store, then you can look at the information on the label at what temperature they can be washed. After washing, we dry, iron and hang the curtains back on the curtain rod.

Pros: – easy care; – different fastening; – large color palette; – different textures for curtains made of thick fabric; – thick curtains do not allow the sun’s rays to pass through;

Choosing the right color for fabric curtains is not difficult.

Minuses:

– hands get tired;

If the window space is large, then you have to stand for a long time to remove all the curtains. It is very hot under the ceiling and your arms get tired due to the awkward position.

To hang curtains, you need to stand and hang them on each hook or ring (if the mount is standard).

Hanging curtains is a rather labor-intensive process.

– the color fades over time;

Due to the fact that the curtains are constantly hanging on the window, the color of the curtains fades and becomes lighter over time.

Soft windows

This type of curtain replaces glass. Basically, these are curtains for the veranda. They are installed in window openings. They have outlines that can be of different colors. They can be stationary and mobile.

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When buying soft windows, pay attention to:

• serviceability of fasteners;
• how the edging and the main material are connected. It is impossible to determine this visually; you must contact a consultant;
• type of fastener. Which one is better is up to you to decide. There are models with adhesive tape, with a zipper, and with rings.

Such windows have a number of advantages compared to glass:

• safety, glass may break and cause injury from fragments. The film will only tear, it will not cause harm if damaged;
• if used correctly, transparent curtains will last you more than ten years;
• quick and easy installation. The material is not heavy, and its mechanism is simple enough that even a beginner can handle it with ease.

You will make the right choice if you choose something like this for your gazebo. Not a single insect or rodent will be able to get to you, precipitation and wind are no longer scary, and most importantly, there is no dust. The material is completely environmentally friendly and does not cause allergies.

Roller blinds.

Roller blinds have a retractable mechanism. Top down or bottom up. If you live on the lower floors, with windows of other houses opposite your house, then it is better to install roller blinds with fastening from the bottom up.

What are roller blinds made of?

Standard roller blinds consist of: – box; Roller blinds are screwed into a special box. The box is attached to the window space. - textile; A fabric extends from the box to darken the sun's rays; – cord; A cord is a chain with which curtains are pulled out and closed.

Installation methods and control mechanisms for Blackout blinds

Depending on the level of darkness required, Blackout roller blinds can be installed in a variety of ways.

• Open type - consist of a shaft, fasteners and canvas, the simplest option; the canvas moves freely. Open type roller blinds can be installed either on the wall above the window, in the window opening, or directly on the window sash itself. When attaching the cornice to the wall above the opening, the window space and window sill are closed with a curtain in the lowered position; in other options, the window sill remains open. The shaft on which the curtain is wound also remains open.

Blackout roller blinds in the design of panoramic windows