Sheerweave
Architectural grade screen with an open weave structure. Blocks up to 99% of UV rays while maintaining outward visibility. Greenguard Gold certified and flame retardant. The most specified fabric on the Garden Route.
drop down blinds
drop down blinds
Custom Blinds Shutters & Awnings | Garden Route
Outdoor roller blinds that lower vertically to cover open patios, pergolas and braai areas. Manual or motorised. Installed across the Garden Route by Duncan.
Drop down blinds are outdoor roller systems that lower vertically to cover open sides of patios and outdoor rooms. The fabric is the engine: a quality outdoor screen fabric is UV stable, maintains tension and reduces wind and glare while still allowing airflow.
The result is a patio that works in more weather: less glare in summer, more shelter in winter, less wind disruption year-round. The blind rolls away completely when not needed and drops on demand.
Outdoor screen fabrics are engineered with a balanced openness factor: they reduce glare and visibility while still allowing airflow and outward views from inside the patio. The result is daytime privacy with a light, breathable feel.
Architectural grade screen with an open weave structure. Blocks up to 99% of UV rays while maintaining outward visibility. Greenguard Gold certified and flame retardant. The most specified fabric on the Garden Route.
Micro-perforated weave that rejects up to 86% of solar energy while maintaining the view. Moisture resistant and coated for coastal salt-air conditions.
Full weather seal with total visibility. Seals against wind-driven rain and cold while keeping the view completely open. The preferred choice for restaurants and exposed coastal patios.
Openness guide: 5% openness blocks most spray and glare while letting airflow; best for exposed coastal patios. 10–15% is more open, better for sheltered areas wanting gentle shade.
Manual systems are reliable and cost-effective, especially for smaller openings or occasional use. A strong choice when the blind is easy to reach and frequent adjustments are not needed.
Motorised systems use Somfy motors for reliable daily operation. App control, wall switches and wind/sun sensors available. Ideal for large openings, holiday homes and restaurants where convenience matters. The blind can stop at any height with a single button press.
| Factor | Drop Down Blinds | Sidetrack |
|---|---|---|
| Side sealing | Open edges, wire or cord guided | Fabric locked in aluminium channels |
| Wind resistance | Good in sheltered positions | Excellent, engineered for exposed sites |
| Operation | Crank, spring, or motor | Gearbox, spring-balance, or motor |
| Best for | Sheltered patios, braai areas, balconies | Exposed coastal openings, large spans |
| Cost | Lower entry point | Premium, more involved installation |
Custom Blinds installs drop down outdoor blinds across the Garden Route. Estimates are complimentary from your dimensions and photos; if you are happy to proceed, Duncan does the final measurements on site.
Outside these areas? Order online with free nationwide delivery.
Drop down blinds are primarily designed for sun, wind and weather reduction. Screen fabrics reduce rain and splash but they are not a fully sealed waterproof wall. If your goal is total rain exclusion, side guidance and clear PVC become critical.
Yes. ‘Outdoor drop blinds’ and ‘drop down blinds’ describe the same product: an outdoor roller blind that lowers vertically to enclose a patio. Custom Blinds Shutters and Awnings uses ‘drop down blinds’ as the standard term. Whichever name you search, the fabric options, fixing methods and Garden Route installation process on this page apply.
Yes. Quality systems with a proper brake mechanism hold the blind at any height without pins or ropes. Motorised systems stop precisely at any programmed position.
With proper care, Sheerweave and Sunworker fabrics last 8 to 10 years or more in South African conditions. Monthly salt rinsing in coastal areas significantly extends fabric life.
Yes. Most installations fix to existing posts, beams or fascia with minimal disruption. Duncan assesses the substrate and wind exposure on site before specifying the correct fixing method.
A drop down blind hangs freely from the top roller and raises or lowers without side guidance. Wind can cause some movement at the edges in exposed positions. A sidetrack blind runs in fixed aluminium channels on both sides, sealing the edges completely against wind, insects, and horizontal rain. Drop down blinds suit sheltered patios and frame views. Sidetrack systems suit coastal and exposed positions where edge sealing matters.
In moderate coastal conditions, yes. Duncan assesses wind exposure on the site visit and specifies the correct fabric weight and fixing method for the position. For exposed north-facing or sea-facing patios with direct south-easter exposure, a sidetrack-guided system provides better edge control and longer fabric life. The site visit determines which system is appropriate before any product is specified.
Sheerweave fabrics at 5% openness allow outward vision from inside while blocking direct inward views from outside in daylight. After dark, with interior lighting, the effect reverses. Clear PVC panels are fully transparent in both directions. For complete visual privacy, a blockout or high-density fabric is required. Duncan can show fabric samples on the site visit so you can assess the privacy level before committing.
No. Estimates and consultations are complimentary. Send through your dimensions and a few photos on WhatsApp and we will prepare your estimate, or share your building plans for larger projects. If you are happy to proceed, we come out and do the final measurements. Larger projects include a design consultation with Duncan Kane, at your home in Knysna and Plett, by photos and video further afield.
20 years of expertise, built on exceptional products, trusted partnerships and projects we’re proud to put our name to.
Send rough sizes, a photo or two of the opening and anything you already know. We come back on fabric, system and pricing, usually within one working day.
We have what we need to start on your assessment. Expect a reply on the number you gave, usually within one working day.