Tips to overcome common challenges for the retrofit of external blinds.
Is the building listed or in a conservation area?
- If so, The Green Blind outdoor wooden shades could be an ideal solution as they can be temporarily fixed and packed away when no longer required. Made from sustainable wooden slats linked with galvanised wire hooks, the blinds block out the heat whilst allowing light and ventilation in the room. They can be DIY fixed and are available to buy in standard sizes or colours on our ecommerce site thegreenblind.co.uk or made to order for projects.
Is power supply an issue?
- Roller shutters, external venetians and screens can be manually operated with a crank and are on average 30% cheaper than motorised systems. The crank mechanism can be drilled through the wall to enable operation from the inside or operated from the outside on accessible ground floor windows.
- Solar powered external blinds do not require a power supply and can be operated with a wireless wall switch or remote. The solar panel is fixed onto the casing with the battery concealed inside. Whilst more expensive than a standard motorised blind, solar powered blinds are quick to install and offer potential savings on electrical supply.
Unsure which type?
- All types of external shading reduce overheating and different fabrics make only a marginal difference. Consider your preference for light and visual comfort, do you want to retain the view to the outside when the blinds are in use, or do you also want blackout and privacy? The available space above the existing windows will determine your option with roller screens requiring the least amount of space.
Not enough space above the windows?
- Many homes in the UK have first floor outward opening windows that are butted up against the soffit. In this case a possible option is to replace the existing window with a smaller or inward opening window which will accommodate the blind casing. External blinds can be fitted as a unit with aluminium windows that slide or open inwards.
Please get in touch if you would like advice for your shading project.
#overheating #shading #passivedesign #conservationareas #facilitiesmanagement