With the number of loft extensions and ground-floor extensions being built here in the UK on the rise, more and more of us are becoming used to the idea of skylights. These carefully placed windows allow us to optimise on light and make the most of our new spaces. However, with this added avenue for natural light comes the challenge of how to best manage it. And, in comes the increase in popularity of skylight blinds. Designed specifically for this purpose, these window dressings bring style and practicality into your home. But, being out of reach for most people, one common query is how to open skylight blinds. Let’s delve into that here today.
What are skylight blinds?
Slanted window blinds are becoming more commonly found every single day. You may have heard them referred to as roof window blinds as well as skylight blinds but they all do the same purpose. These fixed window dressings cover roof windows which normally sit on a slanted roof. They are under different demands to normal window blinds as they sit at an angle – and, therefore, need to work against the natural pull of gravity. Instead of being free-flowing, the fabric used in skylight blinds is fixed all the way around in channels. It is held taut within a frame that can be moved up and down, exposing or covering the window as needed.
Because skylights are generally placed in positions to make the most of natural light, their relevant blinds are very important. When sunlight is streaming into a room, it can become very hot and uncomfortable. Equally, direct sunlight is the prime cause of glare on television or smart device screens, increasing the risk of disruption. And, if exposed for an extended period of time, can also cause the dye in soft furnishings (such as sofas, rugs and curtains) to fade prematurely. Knowing how to open and close skylight blinds, as well as when to do so, is an effective way to truly enjoy the new space you’ve invested in.
How to operate skylight roof blinds
So, how do you open skylight blinds? Firstly, it pays to note that there are two types of skylight blinds – manual and electric.
The most traditional and well-known of the slanted window blinds family, manual skylight blinds are very easy to use. They can be adjusted manually using an opening pole. Manufactured from lightweight metal, these telescopic poles are one of the quickest and simplest ways to use your roof window appropriately. They have an extending design and two options in length (2mm or 3mm extended).
When you want to close or open your skylight blind, all you need to do is:
Extend the pole to its desired length
Hook the end of the pole around the bottom bar
Tilt the bottom bat back towards the window
Raise or lower the blind as desired
Unhook the opening pole and retract it for storage
Manual skylight blinds are a practical option when:
The skylight sits between 1-2m away from arms length
You are physically able to operate the pole and window yourself
They are also a cost-effective alternative to the other choice on the market – electric skylight blinds.
If you’re looking for something sleeker, more up-to-date with technology or suitable for windows that are further out of reach, consider electric skylight blind. These are fitted with a solar-powered battery that sits discreetly within the blind and is charged by exposure to natural light. They are designed to need no wiring and can be fitted just as simple as a manual option. The key difference is the remote control which can be used to operate blinds up to 35 meters away.
With a few clicks of the buttons, you can control the window blind’s coverage. The remote control is also able to operate up to 20 blinds individually, making it simple and easy to keep organised at home. These are the best option when you:
Have a lot of skylight/roof windows with blinds that need controlling regularly
Are unable, physically, to use an opening pole
Want something more modern to suit the style of your home
How to effectively use roof blinds
Being able to roll your roof blind up and down is one thing – but, being able to use your blind most effectively in your home is another. Most of us consider window blinds to have one purpose. They are there to close at night time and open during the day. However, there are ways to optimise your blind use to make the most out of your space.
Roll your blinds down during the coldest parts of the day. This will lock in the residual heat and prevent your home from getting too cold
Roll your blinds up during the warmer parts of the day. This will do the opposite – help to bring as much warmth in as possible
Use blinds to control glare, adjusting them as needed without covering the entire window if you still need to spend time in the room
Finding your perfect skylight blind today
Anyone who has struggled to cover a roof window will know that finding the right blind can be challenging. There are so many options out there when it comes to style and fabric practicality, it pays to do your research.
Here at Skylight Blinds Direct, we manufacture skylight blinds for each of the industry’s major brands. Using just the code printing on your windows, you can search for an array of blackout thermal, translucent and 100% waterproof styles on our website. We also offer additional options, including both silver and white frames and the option to motorise your choice too. The right blind should work practically for your family, fit the interior style of your room and help you to enjoy the investment you’ve made.
For more information about how to open skylight blinds or to speak to a member of our specialist team, please do get in contact with us here today. Or browse through our blog where we answer some of the most common questions and queries surrounding these practical window coverings.