One of the most common attributes in the interior are blinds, which allow not only to regulate the light flux, but also to decorate the room. Such products are several plates connected to each other. Today, windows with built-in blinds are gaining in popularity. They are a unique design and technical solution that solves many problems.
Features and Benefits
This type of structure consists of a standard window frame with shutters inside. At the same time, they can be controlled from the outside using a special device (both mechanical and electronic). The width of the inner lamellas can vary from 14 to 27 mm, but this does not significantly affect the thickness of the insulating glass unit. In-window blinds are fixed in several ways:
- The main unit is located directly inside the glass unit between two removable elements. This allows, if necessary, to disassemble the structure and dismantle the blinds for repair.
- The system is fixed in a one-piece block. It is often also a double-glazed window or similar frame.
The functionality of such blinds is completely similar to classic products. Interframe lamellas can either rotate around their axis or rise in a vertical plane.
Products of this type are characterized by several positive properties:
- Minimal care. Often this process involves the correct operation of the control mechanism. No dust forms on the surface of the lamellas, as they are placed in a sealed block. This eliminates periodic cleaning, which is not very pleasant for housewives.
- Versatility. Blinds can be installed on both plastic and wooden window frames. Such systems are also easily mounted inside plastic balcony doors, which makes them very popular and practical.
- Functionality. The mechanisms are equipped with a different control system that can be adapted to personal needs.
- Durability … The service life of such a window can reach 80 years with proper care.
- Aesthetics. Manufacturers produce windows with blinds of various designs, which can be easily selected for a specific interior. The variety of colors and shades allows you to create unique styles, making the interior more pleasant and comfortable.
But windows with built-in blinds have several significant disadvantages:
- High price. This characteristic is one of the main reasons for limiting the buyer.
- Difficult renovation. It is almost impossible to fix such a mechanism at home.
- In some modifications, the control mechanisms are not sealed, therefore moisture can penetrate through the hole for the cord into the glass unit, which leads to the formation of condensation.
Varieties
The modern market is constantly replenished with many modifications of built-in blinds. They can be classified according to several criteria. One of them is the type of lamellae. The most common are horizontal systems. Their design makes them easy to operate. Vertical structures inside a window opening are quite rare, since it is a little more difficult to ensure their functioning. The lamellas themselves can be made from several materials:
- Aluminum. Metal perfectly withstands temperature extremes. Also, the substance is durable, which allows it to be used for up to 50 years.
- Wood. Lamellas made from this substance are distinguished by a unique design. They are made from such species as oak, pine, maple, linden, walnut, etc. They perfectly complement the modern high-tech style.
Modern window systems are equipped with several blind control mechanisms:
- Rotary handle. The easiest and most inconvenient option. Many manufacturers try not to use it. If the handle is present, then it is intended to change the angle of inclination of the inner lamellas.
- Magnet. Magnetically operated blinds are relatively simple. The position of the slats is adjusted with a small knob directly through the window frame. In this case, both the angle of inclination and the lifting height of the entire web can be changed.
- Roller … This design is classic. It consists of a cord and a roller that transmits movement to all elements of the blinds. These designs are very often found in the external modifications of such products.
- Shaft. Roll models are equipped with a special longitudinal tube that can rotate around its center. With the help of special cords, the fabric is sequentially wound on the shaft. The last element can be closed for an attractive style.
- Electronic. The movement of the lamellas is controlled by a special electric motor. In this case, all operations are carried out using the remote control. This allows you to adjust all characteristics even remotely. This type of control is the most optimal and reliable, but also the most expensive.
It should be understood that built-in blinds are a combination of classic models with a window frame. Therefore, almost the entire classification that relates to these products repeats the division of standard modifications.
Built-in models can also be equipped with a solid web. Rolled models are used for large windows, where they perfectly imitate classic curtains.
How to choose?
The modern market provides many models of built-in blinds, which does not always allow you to choose the best option for the product. Therefore, when buying, you should be guided by a few simple rules:
- Decide on a control system. The best option would be electronic mechanisms, which not only simplify the whole process, but are almost invisible. This does not spoil the appearance of the windows and allows them to easily fit into the design.
- Rate the quality of performance … At the same time, it is important to pay attention not only to the technical characteristics of the blinds, but also the thermal insulation parameters of the window.
- Pick up the material. First of all, you need to evaluate what substance the window frame is made of. In most cases, the blinds are installed on plastic frames. But if you value environmental friendliness, you can order a natural wood window. After that, you should decide what type of lamellae you want to use. Each of them has its own advantages and disadvantages, so the choice depends only on personal preference.
- Rate the style. It is important that the window and blinds fit into the overall interior of the room. If the design is only planned, it should be taken into account with what materials these products can be combined.
- Check the technical characteristics of the window profile … First of all, you should check the thickness of the frame and the number of air chambers. How well the window retains heat depends on these values.
- Analyze manufacturer feedback … This will allow you to highlight good and quality products, and not a fake for a lot of money.
Which firm should you trust?
Internal louvered windows are conventional designs that are simply complemented by a dimming system. They can be made from almost any profile that is put on the market. Among the manufacturers of this component, several of the highest quality can be distinguished:
- KBE. The profile is distinguished by quality indicators of sound and heat insulation. It can be operated in the temperature range from -50 to +50 degrees.
- Rehau … The products meet all safety parameters. It retains heat perfectly and can serve for a long time.
- Veko. The profile is distinguished by its durability, high tightness and high-quality indicators of thermal insulation. A rubber seal is used as an accessory, which perfectly tolerates severe frosts.
- Trocal. The structure is characterized by high rigidity and resistance to deformation. The profile is sealed and durable.
It should be understood that windows with built-in blinds can be made from almost any described profile. It is he who is the key to warmth in the house. Therefore, when choosing such structures, it is necessary to clarify the parameters of the window, and only then pay attention to the blinds. If you are not sure that you can choose quality products, you should first consult with specialists. This will allow you to select a company whose products serve for a long time and without failures.
Testimonials
Built-in window blinds are new and not yet very common. But many users are happy with their functionality. They celebrate their durability and practicality. Some argue that they purchased designs in which the control mechanism was located outside. Under the constant influence of moisture and temperature changes, it quickly broke down. Some users claim that a kind of cold bridge is formed at the place where the blinds are installed. It helps to cool the room faster, which is not always good in frosty conditions. But modern manufacturers are struggling with this by using a thicker profile and better quality seals.
Another disadvantage is the high price, which does not allow the average buyer to purchase such windows. Therefore, many of them prefer standard windows, which are then supplemented with a certain type of external blinds.
In general, the reviews about these designs are positive, which allows us to conclude about their suitability and practicality. Windows with built-in blinds are versatile mechanisms that allow you to create a pleasant atmosphere inside the house.
For an overview of built-in blinds, see the following video.