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Integral blinds – a quick guide

January 23, 2020 by harp_admin

Integral sealed unit blinds can be fitted inside any window or door in sizes from 300mm to 2600mm wide and in any frame – timber, aluminium or uPVC – and can even be retrofitted into existing doors and windows (that are glazed with sealed units). They are installed the same way as any other sealed unit and are a practical solution for sliding patio doors, French doors and bi-fold doors, as they don’t interfere with the opening mechanism and sit neatly inside the panes of glass.

Adding a stylish finishing touch to your room, integral blinds are perfect for controlling room temperature, maintaining privacy and protecting your furniture from fading. They give you the ultimate in protection from the heat and glare of the sun whilst remaining dust and dirt-free – forever. How cool is that?

Two types of blinds are available – Venetian (the most popular choice) and pleated with a choice of control systems, including either cord, magnetic or electric operation. You can colour match your blinds to your profile colour, with anthracite grey currently top of the list!

Your Questions

Q: Why must the blinds be supplied with their glass? Can’t I buy them separately?

No, this is not possible. The manufacturing process of a double glazed unit is carried out under controlled conditions – this is because the units need to be 100% hermetically sealed in order to provide the U Value and to be reliable for many years to come. The manufacturing process for an integral sealed unit blind is pretty much the same as for an ordinary unit, and that is why they must be fitted by the same company that makes the double glazed units. Think of the glass for your windows/doors as a whole sealed unit, the only difference is the addition of the blind.

Q: Which is the best control system? Cord, magnetic or fully automated?

Each has their merits, and of course price difference. Probably our magnetic operation is the most popular – it looks “neater” as there are no cords on show on the side of your window/door. Cord operation is the more cost effective option (but is not suitable for bifold or sliding doors) with fully automated blinds being the most expensive (as you would expect). We would encourage you to visit our showroom and see examples of our integral blinds, to try them out for yourself and to discuss your options with our experienced sales team.

Q: Do integral blinds work with any window or door?

Generally yes, any door or window that takes a sealed unit. They can also be retrospectively fitted, so if you’ve had some bifold doors or French doors (or a conservatory) fitted and find that you have an issue with bright sunlight at certain times of the day, you can have a new sealed unit installed complete with blinds!

Q: I love the idea of these blinds but they are not cheap! Are they really worth the additional cost?

Budget is a deciding factor for many buyers but we believe that integral blinds look better, last longer, offer more features and longer term are the better investment. Key advantages of integral blinds include:

• They remain sealed, dust-free and will never require cleaning.
• Blinds are protected from wind, impact and other sources of damage, resulting in low maintenance.
• They are discreet, sleek and elegant in keeping with today’s modern homes and commercial facilities.
• You can choose from many opening options including magnetic and motorised (battery powered or hardwired).
• Used correctly they will last for many years.

Download the Between Glass Blinds brochure >>

Find out more about integral blinds by contacting our showroom on (01923) 231111 or email us at info@harp-windows.co.uk – we look forward to seeing you soon!