When Not to Use Certain Blinds: What Most Guides Don’t Tell You
Shade and privacy coverings can do a lot but not everything, sadly.
Some styles shine in specific settings and fall short in others. Here’s a practical, no-nonsense guide on when not to use specific blinds, so you can get it right the first time.
Roller Blinds
Avoid in:
- Windows wider than three meters per blind
- Rooms with continually open or breezy windows
- Spaces needing precise light control throughout the day
Why:
All roller blinds are made of fabric yet on wide spans, they start to sag, and even linked systems can be clunky. In open windows where wind flows through, the constant movement of the fabric can become noisy and distracting and it can damage the blind.
Venetian Blinds (Wood and Aluminium)
Avoid in:
- Windows over three meters wide per blind
- Wood versions in high humidity and direct sun areas
- Drafty or breezy spots where rattling becomes an issue
Why:
Wooden Venetians are beautiful but get heavy and awkward the wider they go. Moisture can lead to warping. Aluminium versions are lighter, but can rattle constantly in moving air, which quickly gets annoying.
Vertical Blinds
Avoid in:
- Narrow cottage pane style windows
Why:
Vertical blinds are ideal for wide windows and sliding doors. On small windows, they can feel bulky and out of place. That said, modern versions come chain-free and can be fitted with block out fabric making them pet friendly and light tight if done right.
Faux Wood (Plaswood) Blinds
Avoid in:
- Very wide windows (they get heavy and harder to lift)
- Low quality options in full sun areas
Why:
Plaswood handles heat better than genuine timber that makes them perfect for coastal or sun-facing windows. However, older models (especially white ones) used to discolour in direct sun. Always check you’re getting a newer, UV-stable version. They’re also heavier than aluminium, so wide spans can be a workout.
Outdoor Blinds
Avoid in:
- Continual Very high wind zones unless following strict use guidelines
Why:
Even blinds with side guides can be hard to tension if the setup isn’t perfect. In strong wind zones, always follow product-specific wind ratings often around 35 to 40 km per hour. Ignoring these can lead to damage or unecessary wear over time.
Shutters
Avoid in:
- Spaces where you want the full window completely open or full view
- Very small rooms or tight window frames or very uneven openings
Why:
Shutters look great but always remain visible, even when open. If you’re working with tight spaces or want a minimal frame, they may feel chunky or reduce the usable window area. Proper fit is key, so small reveals can be tricky.
Honest Tips That Save You Money and Time
Choosing the right blind is not just about what looks good, it is also about knowing what will work long term. Avoiding the wrong product in the wrong place keeps things running smoothly and makes every day easier.
Need help making that final call? We are happy to chat, measure, and advise. That is what we do best and with our years of experience we make it effortless
