Blackout curtains from the sun. How to close windows in hot summer: types of curtains from the scorching sun

Apartments with balconies facing south or southwest turn into "outright hell" on hot summer days. If you do not close the windows with reliable protection from the sun, then even air conditioning does not save, especially since many homeowners refuse it on principle, because of dubious environmental friendliness, while others simply cannot afford it from a purely economic point of view - it is not cheap, and it consumes quite a bit of electricity.

Therefore, you have to think about how to close the windows on the balcony from the sun without using electrical appliances to cool the room. If earlier the surest way to create coolness on a hot day was a wet sheet attached to the window, today you can choose one of the modern ways to protect against excessive heat radiation from entering the balcony.

Learn a few simple models, how to make, from a new article on our portal.

To make sure that the range of models of different sunscreens is large enough, you need to consider the options. However, first of all, a few words should be said about some features of this choice.

What color is better to choose?

An important point when choosing curtains or other devices to protect the balcony from the sun is their color, as it also affects the reflective effect.

First of all, it is recommended to abandon the dark colors, since such materials tend to absorb heat, so it will not only be dark on the balcony and in the rooms, but also stuffy. Thus, there is a risk of getting a small “sauna” on the balcony instead of the desired coolness, in which it is absolutely impossible to be. Therefore, black, navy blue, burgundy, dark brown and similar colors should be avoided.

Do not close the windows with curtains or blinds that have bright warm colors - orange or yellow, they will "psychologically" enhance the sunlight and will not create the desired atmosphere of coolness.

In addition, one should take into account the creation of harmony in the color of the protective devices on the windows with the rest.

Types of sun protection devices and materials

Due to the fact that the issue of keeping cool on the balcony of an apartment or house is quite relevant, manufacturers produce various shading options. Most of them were invented a long time ago, but even today they can be found in stores in a modernized and improved form.

So, to protect the balcony from direct solar radiation, the following are used:

  • Curtains of various configurations and designs.
  • Blinds vertical and horizontal, made of different materials.
  • Awnings - canopies over the window system.
  • Rolleta external.
  • Reflective foil and stained glass film.

All these materials or devices, in turn, are divided into types, which will be discussed below.

Curtains for the balcony

To protect from the sun and to decorate the balcony, various designs of curtains are used - you can choose from a wide variety for every taste. It can be ordinary curtains, roller blinds or Roman blinds.

Curtains on the balcony

Hanging curtains on the balcony is probably the easiest, especially in cases where it is possible to sew them yourself. They will well close the balcony from the sun, but only if the fabric is correctly selected not only in color, but also in composition.


The best material for balcony curtains is the material that is least affected by ultraviolet radiation and high temperatures - these are dense cotton and linen fabrics without a pattern, or having it on one side, the one that the canvas should be turned into the room. The advantage of this shading method is the fact that the curtains can be made according to different patterns, of any configuration - this is especially important when.

curtains for the balcony


Two significant factors can be attributed to the “cons” of this sunscreen:

  • Any fabric collects dust in its structure, which can only be removed by washing, so the curtains will have to be subjected to this process quite often.
  • The second point is that ordinary-cut curtains look too simple and do not have a decorative effect, and those that are hung on the eaves and have numerous folds look very rich, but visually reduce the already small balcony. Therefore, the latter are recommended to be used on spacious loggias, decorated in certain design interior styles.

Roller blinds

Roller blinds are quite popular for use on balconies. There are many varieties - according to the design and materials of manufacture, but they got their name because when they are closed, the canvases are rolled up into rolls.


They are easy to install and look quite aesthetically pleasing on the windows, as they are produced in various plain and multi-color options - you can choose them for any interior. The convenience of this type of curtains lies in the fact that they can be easily raised to different heights from the windowsill or close the opening completely by adjusting the amount of light entering the room. Another advantage of this solar protection option is that the curtains do not visually reduce the space, as they are most often installed exactly the width of the double-glazed windows, almost without covering the frames.

Roller blinds are made from various materials, which allows you to choose the option that is most suitable for a particular balcony and its design style.

Fabric roller blinds

If roller blinds are sewn from ordinary dense fabric, in one or more layers, then they are an even canvas that can be raised to the desired height and secured by pulling the cord. However, this option has a lot of “cons” - this is dust collecting in the fabric, which means frequent washing, as well as the fact that they will have to be twisted manually.


The most popular type of modern roller blinds is made from a three-layer "Black Out" polyester fabric with a satin weave. In the manufacture of this material, it is processed with acrylic foam, which gives it density, as well as with special dust-repellent compounds.

  • The first layer of material, facing the street, is designed to reflect ultraviolet rays, so it is most often white.
  • The middle layer is sufficiently dense, and thanks to this, the curtains can be opaque, and the degree of impermeability varies from 5 to 100%.
  • The third layer, turned towards the room, plays a decorative role. It can be monophonic, multi-color, or a certain pattern is located on the surface.

The uniqueness of this material lies in its ability to absorb radiation ultraviolet radiation by almost 100%, which meets international standards for this indicator.

The most convenient design of curtains made of Black Out material is called Rollite - it is fixed directly to the frame on top of the double-glazed window, so the window can be opened for ventilation both with the curtain open and closed.

It is impossible not to mention the “day-night” roller blinds, which, depending on the degree of openness, can completely block the light from entering the balcony, or let it in partially.


This option consists of two canvases, the stripes on which alternate - one of them is transparent, and the other has a high density. If it is necessary to completely shade the room, the canvases are shifted, while the darker stripes overlap the transparent ones, and the curtain becomes completely opaque.

Bamboo roller blinds

Bamboo curtains, produced in the form of rolls, are able to create a natural shade on the balcony, and thanks to the structure of the material, they reliably protect the premises from overheating. In addition, such a model brings a special touch of exoticism to the interior - indoor palm trees or ficuses will look especially organic against the background of such canvases.

This version of the curtains is made from bamboo cut into strips and treated with special compounds, and the thickness of the elements that make up the canvas can be different. They are fixed together with decorative threads.


The material has a special lightness, strength, UV resistance and moisture resistance, so the service life of such curtains is quite long. They are easy to operate - it is not difficult to regulate the flow of the required amount of sunlight into the room.

Roller blinds are easy to install

On sale you can find many interesting models of these protective and decorative devices. A special advantage is the opportunity. More about this in a special publication of our portal.

Roman curtains


Roman blinds are gaining more and more admirers, and maybe because they are quite easy to make on your own, with fabric and some simple devices.


For them, as well as when sewing ordinary curtains, it is recommended to choose natural linen or cotton fabrics - the synthetic material will collapse under the influence of ultraviolet radiation, and all the manufacturing work will be done in vain.

The design of Roman blinds differs from roller blinds in that when they are opened, they do not roll into a roll, but are collected in the form of folds. This option is no less comfortable to use, the curtains are also compact and aesthetic in appearance. The choice of the thickness of the curtains depends on the preferences of the owners of the apartment - they can be very dense or have one or another degree of light transmission.


Roman blinds are also made from bamboo straw, stitched with decorative threads. Bamboo, as mentioned above, perfectly protects the room from the penetration of high temperatures into it and creates a pleasant shade. In addition, straw curtains are an excellent decoration not only for the balcony, but also for any living room.

If Roman blinds are purchased ready-made, then you need to know that they can be manually or electrically controlled. It is clear that the second option will cost much more, and for its installation it is often necessary to invite a professional master.

Roman curtain models may differ in their design - one of them is fixed on the frame above the window sash, and the other on the sash itself, but in the second case, usually fixing the frame canvas is fixed along the edge of the double-glazed window on the frame. If the curtain is fixed above the frame, then the sash will be less convenient to open, and it can easily damage the canvas.

Blinds


A fairly common type of sun protection are blinds. On sale are vertical and horizontal models made of plastic, fabric treated with special compounds, metal and wood. Blinds can be plain, multi-color or with different patterns.


Most often on the balconies you can see plastic blinds, however, it should be noted that this particular material does not have the qualities that would contribute to reliable protection from ultraviolet rays, especially in cases where the balcony windows face south and are exposed all day long. sun.

roller blinds


Fabric vertical blinds have a higher density and more reliably protect the room from heating, since such material is not subject to strong heat. When the slats are completely closed, the heat will not penetrate inside the balcony. If the fabric does not transmit light at all, then you can choose any of the light or bright shades of the blinds, but you should not choose dark colors.

Here it is necessary to clarify the point that both plastic and fabric options have the ability to accumulate dust on their surface, which is quite difficult to remove.


Aluminum blinds create a denser curtain from the sun, but, as you know, any metal has a high thermal conductivity, and, heating up itself, begins to give off heat into the room. Therefore, even if the blinds are white, they will not be able to fully protect the balcony from high temperatures.

The advantage is that aluminum slats, compared to plastic and fabric, are easy to clean - it will be enough to wipe them with a damp sponge and then with a soft cloth.


If it is planned to equip the balcony with blinds, then wood will be the best option of all materials. Wooden slats practically do not heat up and well protect the room from the sun. However, a quality version of these curtains will always have a fairly high price.

Dust also collects on the surface of wooden lamellas, but it can be easily removed with a vacuum cleaner. As you know, wood is an environmentally friendly material, so during operation it will not emit fumes harmful to humans, even when exposed to high temperatures. Wooden blinds are usually left in their natural shades - for a balcony, it is better to choose a light color of wood, as it is not only pleasing to the eye, but also absorbs heat less.

Roller shutters


Another way to close from the direct rays of the sun, wind, dust and noise is to install roller shutters on the balcony window that cover it completely. (In Russian terminology, the name is often used).


In addition, they will protect the apartment located on the ground or top floor from "unexpected guests". Roller shutters have a design similar to roller blinds, but they consist of numerous durable lamellas installed horizontally and fastened together by hinged joints. When closed, these curtains form a continuous sheet, and when they are opened, they are folded into a box located at the top of the window.

Roller shutters are installed outside the window opening or from the inside, and the box installation option can be chosen to the taste of the homeowner.


If you need to solve several problems associated with a balcony window at once, then roller shutters are exactly what you need. To close the glazing, it is recommended to choose white roller shutters, which will not absorb sunlight.


Roller shutters are made from different materials:

  • Aluminum windows provide protection from sunlight and atmospheric influences, which is especially important if the balcony is not glazed.
  • Steel shutters are heavier and more durable. They are installed when the need to provide protection against hacking comes to the fore.
  • Wooden options are perfect for protection from the sun and street noise.
  • Plastic shutters are light in weight and are quite capable of protecting the room from ultraviolet rays. However, when choosing them, you should definitely pay attention to the quality of the material, otherwise cheap plastic under the influence of UV rays will quickly collapse.

When thinking about installing this version of protective curtains on a balcony, do not forget that they can be fully opened, closed or slightly opened from below to the desired height. Roller slats cannot be installed in different positions, as is done in blinds, and when there is a strong heat outside the window, many people prefer to close the balcony windows completely - if only it does not break into the room.

Roller shutters can be closed and opened mechanically, that is, manually, or they can have an electric drive that allows this process to be performed remotely. It is clear that the second option will cost much more.

marquises


Another, and, I must say, quite an effective way to protect balcony windows from the sun is special light fabric awnings called awnings. A similar shading option can be used both on an open and glazed balcony or loggia. The advantage of this method of sun protection is that, along with the shading of the window, air can enter it, and this is what allows you to create a comfortable atmosphere in the rooms.


Depending on the design of the balcony, different configurations of awnings are selected. For example, an awning in the form of a visor, lowered quite low to the window frame, as shown in the first photo. In the second version, awnings are made in the form of rigid frames, on which fabric sheets are stretched. The frames are mounted on a special hinge mechanism, which allows them to be raised to the desired height at an angle or installed vertically, completely closing the windows.

If necessary, you can order a combined version of awnings, which will include in its design a roller blind mechanism and a frame for stretching the awning - it will rise and fall to a certain height as the fabric is pulled. Such a system is often referred to as "on a broken elbow".


Each of the existing modern designs can have an electric drive that allows you to adjust the awnings using the remote control. In addition, if desired, you can equip the system with sensors for the intensity of ultraviolet radiation and air humidity. As a result, "smart shading" itself will choose the desired angle of inclination of the visor.


To create the frame of the awning, durable and lightweight aluminum alloys, powder-coated, are used. As for the fabric, it is made of reliable acrylic threads that combine the qualities necessary for an awning - this is fading resistance, lightness, strength, water resistance and the ability to repel dust and dirt.

Awnings installed on balconies look very extravagant and aesthetically pleasing, create real summer shading and maintain the appropriate mood.

sun protection film


One of the least expensive ways to protect a balcony from ultraviolet rays is sticking on glass. These coatings are divided into four types and differ somewhat from each other.

  • Films with a mirror reflective surface, fixed from the inside of the room. This type can have different degrees of light transmission, and it directly depends on how much light it will be on the balcony and in the room.
  • Another type of mirror film is designed for mounting on glass from its outer side. A similar version of the material is designed to perform two functions - it is protection from ultraviolet radiation and from shedding glass in the event that it is broken. Combined light and shockproof films most often have a mirror reflective surface and have a number of undeniable advantages, but their price is quite high.

  • Spatter glass coatings are a heat-reflecting material consisting of a film onto which refractory metals are deposited by ion exchange or magnetron sputtering. This glass tinting material has excellent UV reflective properties, far exceeding those of conventional reflective mirror films. Spatter coatings are fixed on the glass from the side of the room, which is very convenient for self-installation. Their main disadvantage is their high price.

Despite all the undeniable advantages of expensive films, the most popular are the simplest reflective materials that are affordable even for a family with a small income. Such films can be purchased at almost any supermarket or hardware store.


A similar film is glued from the inside onto a moistened window glass. And since it is quite inexpensive, it can be removed for the winter period, and new sheets of material can be fixed on the window next summer.

Homemade paper blinds


Another affordable sunscreen option is homemade paper blinds, which anyone can make. The easiest way is to make such protective curtains from ordinary ones. Most often, after repair, extra sheets of this finishing material remain, and, having not found a use for them, they are sent to gather dust in a closet, although they can make excellent blinds.

If the balcony is large, and the glazing area is considerable, then it is quite possible to purchase one or two rolls of the wallpaper you like, at an affordable price. First you need to measure the height of the double-glazed window and add 300 ÷ 400 mm to this value - this is necessary for the manufacture of folds. In addition to wallpaper, you will need a thread for sewing shoes or a thin rope of the desired color, as well as double-sided tape and ordinary plastic clothespins - they need to be prepared according to the number of double-glazed windows.


You can make such curtains in a few hours:

  • The required length of the canvas is measured. The width of the blinds should be 15÷20 mm larger than the width of the glass, so that there are no gaps into which ultraviolet rays can penetrate.
  • The width of the fold is determined - to your taste.
  • To make the folds neat, it is best to mark the canvas by drawing straight lines along the ruler.
  • Then, according to the markup and along the ruler, the canvas is folded into folds, and when it is folded, in this form it must be fixed on both sides with clothespins.
  • After that, in the middle of the resulting “accordion” strip, a hole is pierced with an awl, into which a thread or rope is pulled. Sometimes, stepping back from the edges of the strip by 80 ÷ 100 mm, two holes are pierced, in this case two ropes are required, but the easiest option is to get by with one.

  • In the upper part of the blinds, the rope is fixed with ordinary tape, and then double-sided tape is pasted over the entire width of the curtain.
  • At the bottom of the canvas, a strip of double-sided tape is also glued, then the protective film is removed from it and one of the folds is glued together. It will make the bottom of the blinds heavier, but at the same time leave it flexible, which will allow you to give it the shape of a fan, collecting and securing a few lower folds in the middle with a clothespin.
  • The curtain is also attached to the top of the frame with double-sided tape.

Of course, such blinds are not very durable, but they can easily withstand one summer season.

The same, starching it well and smoothing the canvas into folds. This option of curtains will last longer, but after washing, they will again have to be starched and smoothed down. The denser the wallpaper or fabric, the less sun will penetrate into the balcony room.

So, if you wish, you can always find the opportunity to protect the windows of the balcony from direct sunlight, without which it is necessary to do without the onset of the summer heat. There are so many options for various materials and fixtures that one of them will definitely be selected, both in design and in price.

Well, for lovers of independent creativity - another interesting option for home-made blinds from the remnants of unnecessary wallpaper

Video: how to make beautiful window blinds from old wallpaper

Curtains play a big role in creating a beautiful room interior design. But, in addition to the decorative function, window textiles perform the role of protecting the room from bright sunlight. If the room is illuminated by the sun in sufficient quantities, in the summer it can cause discomfort to the inhabitants. The hot rays penetrating the glass heat up the walls and furniture, creating a high temperature in the room. To increase comfort and protect furniture from fading, it is recommended to choose curtains for a sunny room. Which models should be preferred, experienced designers will tell you.

Fabric choice

Curtains and curtains in a sunny room should be made of high-quality, dense fabric. The material should not let in sunlight and, if necessary, shade the room with high quality. Plus, the fabric for window textiles must be resistant to fading. The finished product made of opaque fabric should drape perfectly and lay down in beautiful folds. An additional advantage of such a material, as a rule, is fire resistance and the provision of additional heat and sound insulation. Blackout has all of the above qualities. This is a dense, beautiful fabric that makes excellent curtains for a sunny room for the interior.

Varieties

It is not difficult to choose curtains in a sunny room from opaque fabric. Today, the range of catalogs of fashion stores presents a wide variety of models. For laconic designs, Roman curtains are suitable. They are easy to use and have a simple control system.

An interesting option for a bedroom or living room is the day-night model, made in the form of pleated curtains. Due to the combination of dense and light material, the user can easily control the degree of illumination of the room at any time of the day. If desired, the curtains can be drawn in such a way that the room will not be illuminated by sunlight.

From opaque fabric, roll models are often sewn. Such options are popular in the arrangement of nightclubs, office buildings.

If all the variety did not work out to find a suitable model for a given interior design, you can sew an opaque curtain for a sunny room yourself. In this case, it is recommended to purchase two pieces of fabric that are sewn together, forming a two-layer curtain structure. Using this idea, any housewife will be able to create her own, unique curtain model for any room.

About color choice

Considering that the yellow natural color prevails in the sunny room, it is recommended to select curtains in colder shades. Curtains in blue, blue, green colors will help to cool the room a little. Given that each color has many shades, you can successfully combine several shades and create a stunning curtain composition. Great in a bright, bright room, white curtains will look great. Since white belongs to the cold palette, products in this color will cool the room, adding a touch of severity. In addition, white is perfectly combined with any other shades and colors. Do not forget that for fastening the curtains you will need a cornice. Its color and shape must be combined with the model and configuration of the curtain.

In custody

It is much easier to choose curtains for a sunny room in the catalog, with the assistance of an experienced designer. The specialist will not only tell you which model will look better, but also give recommendations on the choice of material. If the choice of curtains is carried out independently, it is necessary to give preference to curtains in the catalog made of dense, opaque fabric - blackout. This is a dense material that allows you to qualitatively shade a sunny room. Today, there are many models in the catalogs made of blackout fabric, which are perfect for any room design.

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Sun protection for windows: 4 life-saving options

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 sun can turn a room even with a designer interior into a real oven.

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 scourge.

Since I am familiar 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 friends and surfing a lot of pages on the Internet, I found some of the most successful (so it seems) ways to darken windows. I will talk about them below.

Ways to completely darken windows

I want to warn you right away: all the options described below for protecting windows 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 that was advised to me in the process of searching for the perfect protection was blackout curtains on 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:

  1. Choose a dense material for curtains of necessarily light shades. So the curtains will heat up less, and accordingly they will not let the heat into the room.
  2. If you want to achieve maximum protection from sunlight, give preference to Blackout curtains (blackout). Such models are made of a three-layer opaque fabric, they are able to completely reflect the light and darken the room.

  1. To ensure good blackout 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, weights and designs, and turn them into multi-layered protection.

Despite the fact that blackout curtains are excellent protection from the sun on the windows in the apartment, 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.

Method 2. Lamella curtains

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

Internal

The topic of internal blinds comes up especially often when the question arises “how to close the windows from the sun on the balcony”? Nevertheless, 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 adjust the amount of light due to the possibility of turning the slats, of which they actually consist.
  2. They are quite easy to install on the window frame.
  3. Lamella structures can fit into almost any. And in combination with bright curtains, they will create a rather original tandem.

Of the minuses, I want to note some difficulties in cleaning such products. Someone will say that it is enough just to close them and wipe them with a damp cloth. Personally, I had to wipe each socket separately for a significant effect.

outdoor

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 to hide what is happening in the apartment from prying eyes (residents of the first floors, take into account).

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

Method 3. Roller blinds

Convenience, practicality, reasonable price - these epithets are quite suitable for rolled curtains (well, I love them, what can I do). Why are such models good?

  1. By fixing the curtains not above the window, but directly on the double-glazed window, you will achieve the maximum fit of the material to the window, which will prevent light from penetrating 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. Now they produce curtains with opaque, reflective and light-diffusing effects - choose - I don’t want to! Almost all roller blinds from the sun on the windows are treated with dust-repellent impregnation, so you will not have problems with cleaning.

  1. High-quality constructions 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, do not forget about such a simple and effective option. Their installation does not take much time or certain skills. And if you wish, you can make such curtains with your own hands.

Method 4. Film

Despite the many advantages, all of the above methods of protecting an apartment from sunlight have one huge disadvantage. Such models close the view from the window, and this has to be reckoned with.

If a wonderful view opens through the window opening, then it is not worth sacrificing it at all. Plus, you have a great alternative to standard curtains: sun screens.

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 want to immediately please housewives: such a coating does not require absolutely no maintenance.

This option perfectly reflects infrared rays and helps to reduce the flow of solar heat.. At the same time, the level of lighting in the room remains unchanged.

Due to the fact that protective films are produced with different degrees of protection, you can choose the level that suits you best. I've even found fully mirrored models that will make your sunshades opaque to prying eyes (another handy solution for ground floor residents).

And finally, one more advantage of using film. Due to this material, the glass is strengthened, and in more detail: upon impact, it will not shatter into fragments, but will remain directly on the film. So, if you are still thinking about what to stick on the window, then you may have a favorite.

Options for partial dimming

If you do not need to completely darken the windows, but the question of how to hang 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.

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

Many note the sophistication and usefulness 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 low or high blackout, 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 dense canvas, are usually hung outside the opening.

These cute and original visors do not absorb dirt and do not 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 house, awnings are also successfully used on an ordinary balcony. Believe me, even on the wall of an ordinary Khrushchev, this model will look original and unusual.

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

Summing up

I won't be able to tell you what's best to use as your room's primary sun protection, but I've tried to outline the most practical options for you. In principle, each of them, with the right choice and installation, can do a good job. The video in this article will tell you about additional nuances of dealing with scorching rays.

Good window protection - no problems with heat

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

October 17, 2016

If you want to express gratitude, add a clarification or objection, ask the author something - add a comment or say thanks!

Sunlight has a positive effect on the mood and atmosphere in the room, but it is not always needed - for example, it will be superfluous for daytime sleep, and too intense rays adversely affect furniture. In order to regulate the lighting of the room in the required intensity, different types of curtains have been invented.

Blackout curtains

There is such a special fabric, created in order to stand guard over sleep on white nights and reliably block the flow of sunlight into the room. This fabric was invented in Finland, because it is there that the white nights are a fairly long-term phenomenon.

Blackout fabric consists of three layers:

  1. The first layer is designed to maximize the reflection of the sun's rays;
  2. The second layer absorbs incoming sunlight;
  3. The third layer is decorative - it is located on the inside, facing the room.

The light-shielding performance of some blackout fabrics reaches up to 99%

Such curtains can be sewn in almost any version - classic, Austrian, Roman, Japanese, Italian, imperial and other types. They look great both on ordinary windows and on non-standard ones.

When ordering curtains in the OK Design salon, you can choose the most suitable control option for you - manual or using an electric curtain rod.

Roller blinds

Roller blinds do an excellent job of protecting both from the sun and prying eyes. The fabric of roller blinds is treated with a special impregnation that protects them from dust, dirt and fading.

When operating, the fabric is wound on a roll, reinforced at the top of the window, or hangs freely from it. Roller blinds can be mounted on the wall or ceiling near the window, or directly on the sash itself.

Cassette roller blinds

One of the types of roller blinds fixed on the window sash is the roller blind cassette system - here the canvas does not hang freely, but moves along the guides located on the sides of it on the frame. Thus, when using cassette blinds on windows that open at an angle, sagging of the roller blind fabric is excluded.

The degree of imperviousness of roller blinds varies from 25% to 100% depending on the fabric used.

There are also other types of roller blinds:

  • Classic - mounted on a window or in a window opening; the movable shaft may be visible or hidden;
  • Mini - do not differ from the classic ones in anything, except that they can only be mounted on the sash. They are characterized by lightness and simplicity of design;
  • UNI 1 and UNI 2 are cassette blinds designed for plastic windows. Such roller blinds are mounted on the sash or between the window glazing beads;
  • Double - a combination of mini and UNI2 models, characterized by the use of fabric with alternating transparent and translucent stripes.

Blinds

Blinds are one of the first sun protection systems that have long been popular with many people. Previously, blinds were made of wood, today the variety of materials has increased significantly - this is plastic, aluminum, and fabric, but wooden blinds are still in demand. Blinds are horizontal and vertical, depending on the location of the slats.

Blinds control system - manual or electric.

Blinds are perfect for a loggia, kitchen, bathroom, office, they will also look great paired with textile decor on the windows of the living room or bedroom.

marquises

Awnings are awnings that retract and protect the window from the sun outside the building. Awnings are popular for installation in offices, cafes, shops, private homes. They can also be used as a place for advertising - an emblem or important information about the institution is printed on the fabric. Due to the fact that awnings are located outside the building and are exposed to atmospheric phenomena, their fabric is extremely durable, resistant to moisture, fading, and damage.

roller shutters

Roller shutters - a device that operates on the principle of roller blinds. It consists of a shaft fixed at the top of the opening, and a web wound around it, consisting of metal lamellae. Roller shutters are installed on the outside of a window or door and, when closed, protect the window not only from the penetration of sunlight, but also from burglary. Roller shutters of a certain strength can become the main device for ensuring the safety of the premises.

In addition, roller shutters in the closed position protect the glass of the window from damage during a downpour, hail or hurricane.

You can purchase all of the above light protection products from us, in the OK Design salon, where our specialists will not only suggest the option that suits you, but also help you choose and install any of the devices.


Plastic windows have long ceased to be an attribute of office interiors. Today they are used both in old Khrushchev and Stalinka buildings, as well as in modern new buildings. But so that such glazing does not bring dissonance into the atmosphere of home comfort, you need to be able to choose the right curtains for plastic windows that are suitable for the living space.

What kind of tricks do designers use to make plastic windows look cozy at home: they put up the usual vents, add bindings. But if the windows in your apartment still resemble office windows, curtains will help fix the situation. Ordinary floor-length curtains and tulle curtains on high cornices do not harmonize with such glazing. Here we need suitable curtains for plastic windows that will not violate the laws of aesthetics.

To decorate your plastic windows with the latest design, you should pay attention to these types of curtains:

  • Corrugated curtains- also known as Pleated Curtains. The anti-static fabric gathers like an accordion when you need to roll up the curtain and let the sunlight into the room. Depending on the design, the window can be opened both from below and from above.
  • Roman curtains- when unfolded, they are a straight piece of fabric, but when you need to open the window glass, they, starting from the bottom edge, gather into beautiful horizontal deep folds. It is quite possible to sew such a design yourself with your own hands.
  • Roller blinds- perfect for living rooms, and for the kitchen or balcony. They are made of fabric, and fastening is done with Velcro or brackets.

There are open and closed types of roller blinds. Open ones are fabric twisted into a dense roller, which is placed directly above the window. Closed in a folded form, they hide in a special cassette and are practically invisible.

Closed roller blinds for plastic windows (video)

Types of sun blinds on plastic windows

For owners of apartments with south-facing windows, the topical issue is the choice of curtains that serve as reliable protection against sunlight entering the room on hot summer days. Such products are subject to increased requirements.

There is a special kind of roller blinds "blackout", which does not let light through.

In particular, they must be:

  • From high-quality fabric that would not fade in the sun;
  • Reflect the sun's rays to protect the apartment not only from bright light, but also from heat in hot weather.

To this end, those who prefer roller blinds should choose a product made of heat-resistant and opaque blackout material. Such a fabric provides a comfortable sleep even in the conditions of white nights, as it is able to retain the sun's rays up to 100%.

A popular option for plastic windows are day-night sunshades, also known as zebra shades. They are easy to recognize by their distinctive feature - an unusual design in which transparent horizontal stripes alternate with opaque lamellas. Due to this, it is possible to adjust the level of penetration of bright sunlight into the room, up to the complete shading of the room.

Effective in the fight against the bright scorching sun blinds. Blinds with wooden slats or horizontal stripes of fabric will fit well into the home interior.

The original appearance of plastic windows will be given by multiimpressive blinds with vertical slats. Combinations of wood, fabric, plastic, metal allow you to create unique compositions that will become a unique highlight of the interior. Such products are often supplemented with lambrequins.

Features of fastening for curtains on plastic windows

Curtains for plastic windows do not have the usual hooks or loops, they do not use eyelets. Therefore, such curtains cannot be hung on ordinary cornices and cannot be threaded into baguettes. To fasten roller blinds or blinds, it will be necessary to mount the structure directly on the plastic profile.

There are different mounting methods.

For curtains on the fixing window, you can use:

  • Latches;
  • self-tapping screws;
  • brackets;
  • Liquid Nails;
  • Double sided tape.

Each method has both its tangible advantages and some disadvantages. Self-tapping screws and brackets, if used carelessly, will violate the tightness of the plastic window, but they hold the heavy structure well. Velcro is recommended to attach light curtains. Using liquid nails for installation, in the future it will be difficult to replace the old curtains with new ones. Latches are not suitable for all types of structures, but they cling directly to the window sash and it is easy to replace open-type roller blinds with them.

How to attach curtains to plastic windows with your own hands

The most popular type of fastening of common roller blinds, suitable for a plastic window, is fixing directly on the window. To avoid drilling unnecessary holes in the profile, it is recommended to use removable latches that can be mounted directly on the sash.

For this:

  1. It is necessary to first degrease the junctions of the plastic and the latch.
  2. Cut out the appropriate size of double-sided tape, which will hold the latch and the window sash together for reliability.
  3. Attach the holders of the movable shaft to the installed latches.
  4. Install a shaft with curtains between them.
  5. Attach a spike with a gear for a chain mechanism to the shaft.

How is the installation of roller blinds on a plastic window (video)

There is no doubt whether the plastic window will fit into the home interior. The modern market is full of offers that are designed to decorate this type of glazing in the best possible way both in residential high-rise buildings and country houses. And fixing the curtains on a plastic window is not difficult if you know some of the subtleties of such installation.

Curtains for plastic windows (photo)

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