venetian blinds explained

Venetian Blinds Venetian blinds consist of horizontal, overlapping slats that are generally either made of aluminium or timber. The slats are suspended from a headrail and supported by ladder braid or ladder tape. Aluminium slats, for internal use, are available in 15mm or 16mm, 25mm, 35mm, 50mm and 80mm widths. Aluminium slats are also produced in 65mm and 80mm widths primarily for external use but can also be used internally. Timber slats are available in 25mm, 50mm and 60mm widths. Types and operation Micro blinds A term used to describe aluminium slat venetian blinds using 15mm or 16mm wide slat. Mini blinds A term used to describe aluminium or timber slat venetian blinds using 25mm wide slat. Timber slat is always plain but aluminium can be plain, have a printed design or be perforated. Dual control Dual control blinds have a cord to raise and lower the blind and either a cord or rod to tilt the slats. Mono control Mono control blinds have a cord or rod that both raises and lowers the blind and tilts the slats. Electric control Electric operation is available for venetian blinds of all slat sizes. The motor is located in the headrail. Audiovisual Provides room-darkening effect by increased slat overlap and has channelling to both sides plus top and bottom. Between glazing Special fittings are available allowing blinds to be installed between glazing with remote control facility (see mid-pane blinds). Perforated Aluminium slat available in all slat widths except micro provides sun-screening protection without eliminating the external view. Components Headrail Steel or aluminium encloses the operating mechanism. Bottom rail Steel or aluminium. Slat Aluminium with stove-enamelled paint finish, timber or MDF composite. Ladder braid Polyester braid with cross-ladders to support the slat and control the tilt of the blind. Ladder tape Woven cotton or polyester tape in 13mm, 25mm and 38mm widths with cross ladder to support the slat and control the tilt of the slat. Cord Made from polyester to raise and lower the blind. Lift Tape Polyester or stainless steel tape to raise mono and electric blinds. Rod Acrylic clear wand, steel or aluminium with PVC sleeving used to adjust the angle of the slatting. Cord lock Locking mechanism for the lift cord to secure blind in raised position. Tilter A geared drive to adjust the angle of the venetian slatting. Acorn A range of materials and objects used as cord pulls.

For more information on venetian blinds explained talk to British Blind & Shutter Association