5 Types of Blinds for a Roof Lantern
There are many different types of blinds that can be installed on a roof lantern or skylight, including some very unique options. Let’s take a look at the five most common blind types for roof lanterns and skylight windows, as well as a unique option that you may want to consider if you want your home to stand out from the crowd.
1) Lantern Pleated Blinds
Lantern pleated blinds are one of the most popular types of shades used on roof lanterns.
If you have a relatively small roof lantern/skylight (up to 1500mm wide) the wire-free pleated blind is your best option. However, over 1500mm wide pleated blinds will have visible support wires.
Lantern pleated blinds are available in a wide range of fabrics but we always use Duette® honeycomb fabric for stability, improved performance and to avoid having unsightly cord holes Blackout fabrics will cut out all light, although you do have a choice of lighter fabrics such as translucent or voile which will let in plenty of light but still reduce heat gain & glare even when drawn.
With pleated blinds, you will have ultimate privacy and comfort while still being able to enjoy lots of natural light during daylight hours. Pleated blinds are custom-made to perfectly fit your roof lantern so they do not block any sunlight, no matter what direction it is coming from.
2) Zip Roller Blinds
Your second option for roof lantern shading is the “Zip” roller blind. This is the best option for for larger roof lanterns as they can cover up to 4m wide and a whopping 12m draw without any visible support wires.
Both our lantern pleated & “zip” roller blinds come with a light shelf to support the blind and to ensure a perfect finish all round. Operation is always motorised and, depending on blind type and size, we offer battery, low voltage and mains powered options along with Alexa/Siri voice activation if required.
Our range is available in many colours to suit any preference and, if you’re struggling to find a colour that suits your roof lantern just ask if you need something bespoke. You could also get creative by choosing fabrics which complement your interior décor!
4) Shade Sails
A highly popular choice are demountable shade sails. These are designed to be easily removed for washing and can be put back up again while still damp due to their unique knitted, stretchable fabric. Shade sails are often made from polyester or vinyl and can be customised in colours to match your home.
Our Shade Sail blinds fit slightly below the glazing support bars, and this means they don’t need to follow the roof design – giving Shade Sail blinds the freedom to fit any size or shape of conservatory or roof, without increasing the cost. It also means you have the ability to develop a design that suits your taste, placing overlaps and gaps wherever you wish to create a beautiful design that is unique to you and grants you the degree of solar control you desire.
4) Tiltable Louvre Blinds
Tiltable louvre blinds with aluminium vanes that, depending on your requirements, can interlock and provide high levels of room darkening. While more likely to be used in commercial situations, this system can be adapted for a multitude of applications including shaped opening, sloping glazing and even be mounted externally for maximum heat reduction.
5) Roman Blinds
Roman blinds (sometimes known as Wintergarden blinds) are a popular option for medium to large sized lanterns. Providing a clean and classic look to your roof lantern, with their softly draping fabric panels, available in a wide range of light filtering and room darkening fabrics. Roman blinds provide a softer, more dressed look. Again, always motorised for ease of use, Roman blinds will compliment any room design and decor. Roman blinds are an adaptable option for most roof lantern sizes.