Selection of curtains for windows of non-standard sizes
Modern skylights are surprisingly versatile. Some are inclined cornice openings in the roof, others are transformed into a balcony, extensions and other decorative elements.
After the window frames are installed, the question invariably arises: how to protect yourself from too bright sunlight? What curtains will be not only a stylish addition to the interior, but also a functional element?
A bit of history
For the first time, the use of the space under the roof as a living space began relatively recently - in the 18th century. The founder of this idea was the French architect François Mansart. This rationalization proposal was accepted, as they say, "with a bang" in Europe, and the only inconvenient moment in the living space under the roof was insufficient lighting.
This issue was solved only in the XX century by the Danish engineer Willum Kann Rasmussen, who proposed an unusual design of window openings - at an angle. In fact, it is to him that we owe the windows on the roof that are already familiar to us today, thanks to which the room becomes so cozy.
Features of roof windows
Skylights are the highest window openings in the house. Thanks to them, the room receives enough natural light. The main feature is the slope and non-standard shapes (too wide, or, conversely, narrow, triangular, semicircular or trapezoidal).
It is worth noting that there are no rules regarding the shape of skylights, you can design them absolutely any, the main thing is that you like them.
- Beveled. This form is considered the most common. The window is mounted vertically into the roof, and the beveled one is obtained due to the angular roof slopes.
- Cornice (or front). These are windows of a regular shape, installed in the wall under the roof.
- Balcony. Large enough window openings, when you open them, you get a kind of exit to the loggia. Some options do have a terrace that you can freely walk out to.
- Panoramic. Such unusual windows take up most of the roof slope. Thanks to them, the room is well lit and visually seems larger than it actually is. The correct choice of roll structures for panoramic windows guarantees an unusual interior.
Shading methods
The shading of the attic space is more than a serious matter. In the summertime, the room under the roof heats up twice as fast as the rest of the house. Another feature is the slope line and atypical configuration types. All this suggests that conventional methods of protection from light and excessive heat may not work.
There are two ways to shade rooms:
- Indoor - sun protection devices are mounted indoors;
- External - installation outside.
Internal protection methods include roller shutters with side guides, pleated blinds, black out fabric panels, aluminum and plastic blinds.
Roller shutters with side guides
The structure is fixed on the sides with guides. Thanks to this, the canvas does not sag, which is especially important for inclined structures. If this model is used for windows located very high, it is better to use a remote control system.
The advantages of this model:
- Simplicity of design and uncomplicated installation;
- Reliable protection from bright sunlight;
- Affordable cost;
- Rich assortment of colors and textures;
- Thanks to the side guides, a reliable fixation of the structure is ensured;
- You can choose the most suitable mounting option: on the wall, ceiling, inside the window opening, on each sash.
Of the shortcomings, it is worth mentioning the fragility of the structure, and a short period of operation. However, if you use it with increased accuracy, such a model will last long enough. In addition, some models are attached to a special tape, which can melt at elevated temperatures.
Cassette curtains
When choosing a model of this type, pay attention to the texture of the canvas and its density, because this is what will ultimately determine the degree of shading.
Light canvases made from natural fabrics will only slightly scatter light, reducing its intensity, but will not protect against scorching rays. Thanks to the blackout curtains, it will be possible to provide complete blackout.
The cassette design has several advantages:
- The canvas fits snugly to the window frame, does not sag or puff up, you can freely open and close the window.
- Since there are no gaps or crevices, the canvas will be able to provide reliable protection from light.
- This design of roller blinds for roof windows can be used for any size and angle of inclination of window openings.
- This type of curtain allows you to avoid unnecessary holes in the plastic window, often the structure is attached to double-sided adhesive tape. This means that in case of dismantling, there will be no traces left.
- If the window is very high, a special pole is used to adjust the curtains.
Pleated curtains
Pleated skirts on roof windows are functional and beautiful. The design can be adjusted both from below and from above. All this is possible due to the fact that the initial installation of the model is possible both from the top and from the bottom.
Pleated curtains are compressed fabric of different colors and density, stretched over the profile. There are two modifications of this design: an open roller blind and a version with side guides.
The second option is more preferable, since it excludes the sagging of the canvas on the inclined dormer window, as well as the appearance of gaps between the window and the curtain.
The choice of the way of adjusting such a model is yours: manually, using a chain or a special control panel (in the latter case, it will be an electric curtain). If your windows are very high, and the control panel is not provided, a special bar with a hinge is used for mechanical adjustment of the canvases.
Advantages of pleated roller blinds:
- It is possible to install the structure on windows with any inclination and even on movable window sashes;
- Only this model is suitable for the decoration of non-standard windows: triangles, trapezoids, with arches;
- The pleats are impregnated with a special antistatic compound, thanks to which the canvases do not fade, and street dust does not settle on them;
- More expensive models contain inclusions of metal particles, which provides maximum light reflectance and prevents the room from heating;
- A variety of adjustment systems allows you to choose the option that suits you;
- The curtains have a long service life without losing their original appearance.
Pleated curtains can also be made from several types of fabrics of different densities and shades, turning into a "day-night" model, that is, getting the ability to completely protect from outside light.
Important: when buying pleated models, pay attention to the size of the folds: if they are too large, the curtain will look rough (especially in a small room). And if the folds are very tiny, they look at least strange in a spacious room.
It is extremely easy to care for pleated models: either simply wash them, or wipe them with a damp cloth from time to time.
Blinds
This type of curtain is made from aluminum, plastic, bamboo or natural wood. Recently, a new material, isolite, has been in demand. The main advantage of the design is that it does not obscure the panorama, but protects it from sunlight.
By changing the angle of inclination of the slats, it is possible to control the degree of illumination of the room. For skylights that are at an angle, it is better to use blinds with steel string guides, masked on top with plastic or aluminum.
The main advantages of blinds are ease of use, compatibility with almost any interior design, the possibility of repair (a broken lamella is simply replaced with a new one) and low cost.
In addition, the blinds do not require much time and effort to maintain; it is enough to wipe the slats with a slightly damp cloth sometimes.
Obviously, even "capricious" skylights can be decorated not only conveniently, but also beautifully. A wide range of roller blinds ensures that there is an option for each specific room and style.
Video: 10 mistakes when choosing and buying roller blinds