External blinds in front of windows are very popular. They are used not only in private areas but also in commercial sectors and public buildings. This is no wonder, as they actually have a whole range of advantages. But not all blinds are the same, and anyone wanting to equip their own house with them should consider a few points.
External blinds – always a sensible investment?
The installation of external blinds is almost always advantageous and sensible. They can be adjusted flexibly, thereby offering well-adaptable privacy and sun protection. However, that is not their only advantage. They can also shield windows from wind, hail, or other weather influences and improve noise insulation. They can even make it more difficult for burglars to break in.
Anyone who uses external blinds can influence the indoor climate of the house and thus save costs for air conditioning or heating, while simultaneously protecting the environment.
External blinds are not just an option for new buildings; in most cases, they can also be retrofitted to existing buildings without too much effort, as they are mounted on the facade. The provider Labona even offers systems that are suitable for self-assembly. So, if you want to lend a hand yourself and save money in the process, you can find suitable external blinds here.
Choosing the right external blinds
External blinds are available in various designs on the market. When choosing, visual aspects should not be the only deciding factor. Since they are used outdoors, external blinds are permanently exposed to stress. Resistant materials and good workmanship are therefore important. Aluminum slats generally prove to be the more durable choice compared to plastic variants. Different color coatings ensure the appropriate look. The rails and covers should also ideally be made of aluminum or galvanized sheet metal.
Operation of external blinds is possible manually or electrically. Control via an app on a smartphone can also be set up. When choosing the type of operation, the installation options should be considered, as the electrical variant may require more effort.
A good fit is also important so that the blinds can ideally fulfill their purpose. Therefore, choosing a provider that works with custom-made products is recommended.
Not all slats are the same
Special attention should also be paid to the choice of slat shape, as it affects the function of the blinds. Depending on the shape, only shading or even complete darkening can be achieved.
The most common variant is the C-shape as classic sun protection. S-shaped slats also offer good shading and are less susceptible to wind. This can be an advantage in exposed locations or with large window areas.
Anyone wanting to achieve significant darkening with the blinds should consider Z-slats. They also offer the best noise shielding of the various types.
Maintenance effort
Good external blinds are durable and robust. Since they are constantly exposed to the weather, however, it is unavoidable that dirt will settle on them over time. Occasional cleaning is therefore advantageous. It can usually be carried out relatively easily by adjusting the slats appropriately and wiping them with a damp cloth. If this is done regularly, the dirt cannot settle and is quickly removed.
