Everything you Should know about conservatory roof blinds

We often find ourselves at the centre of the conservatory roof blinds versus conservatory roof insulation debate, so we thought we'd share some basic information about roof blinds and let you decide for yourself what's best for your conservatory.

Why should I consider conservatory roof blinds?

If you've spent any time at all in a typical conservatory, you know that these rooms—though lovely—can become unbearably hot in the summer and impossibly cold in the winter. The main function of conservatory roof blinds is to help regulate the temperature of the space.

Are there different styles to choose from?

Of course! Conservatory roof blinds are no one-size-fits-all affair. There are styles, colours and finishes to match nearly any décor.

• Pleated shades: The versatile, lightweight shades come in a range of fabrics, so you'll have plenty of different options for texture and colour. Pleated shades also fold tightly, and they won't interfere with your gorgeous garden view. Keep in mind, though, that most pleated shades are totally opaque, and some fabrics may darken your conservatory more than you would like.
  

• Pinoleum blinds: A very popular choice, pinoleum blinds, are made from natural materials woven to create a fabric. These conservatory roof blinds effectively block out the harsh glare of the sun, yet allow light to filter in so your space always feels bright and welcoming. While these can be installed under rafters and eaves—meaning you won't need a blind for every window—they do roll up quite a size and can obstruct the view from your windows.

• Roller shades: Simple, clean and easy to operate, roller shades are a solid choice for your conservatory. They come in an array of colours to suit your décor and can be easily fitted with motors for convenient automation. However, roller shades can buckle over time, especially on windows larger than 2 metres; if your conservatory roof has very large windows, you might want to consider an alternative.

Any cons that I should know about?

A significant challenge with conservatory roof blinds is that they do not afford the user with effectively low U values. In short they are not very efficient.

Now, if you want to truly turn your conservatory into a comfortable, functional space, consider conservatory roof insulation. Although decorative window treatments look nice, they really can't match the energy efficiency of an insulated conservatory ceiling. Your space will stay cool in the summer, hold heat in the winter and become the heart of your home all year round.