The Best Quality

Made to measure window blinds by the North East's best independent shading company

Take advantage of our FREE expert consultation and fitting service today!

We have been successfully manufacturing made-to- measure blinds in the North East for over 35 years

A1 Blinds are the North East’s best independent window shading company. From our home in Blaydon, we’ve helped people from all walks of life design and install the perfect window blinds. We use the finest quality, ethically sourced materials and have over three decades of experience to draw on. We offer free consultations for all customers in the North East. We guarantee accurate measurements and ensure your home remains in the same condition we found it. Get in touch today and let’s create some window blinds together.

Why Choose A1 Blinds?

There are multiple reasons to pick A1 Blinds for your new window shading project, including:

Free MEASURING

Your advisor will measure up to ensure the perfect fit and supply quotes for all your chosen styles and fabrics

Made in the North East

Our blinds are lovingly made in our factory and rigorously tested to ensure they stand the test of time

EXPERTLY FITTED

We take accurate measurements and never use guesswork, so you can expect the perfect finish every time

12 Months Guarantee

All of our products are covered by our guarantee, giving you complete peace of mind

PRICE MATCH PROMISE

Found a better price elsewhere? We’ll match it and ensure you always get the best deal.

And that's not all...

Quality Craftsmanship

Meticulously crafted blinds by skilled blind experts.

Unrivalled Quality

Handpicked premium materials ensure durability and elegance.

Extensive Range

A wide selection of blinds to suit every taste and need.

Expert Service

Friendly and knowledgeable assistance from our dedicated team.

Help Us Make a Difference This Winter!

We’ve teamed up with HOPE Charity to support the North East’s homeless community. As winter approaches, we’re collecting preloved sleeping bags, new socks, and new underwear to bring warmth to those in need. Watch our video with HOPE Charity’s founder to hear the heart behind this campaign and how we’re making a difference together.

How to Get Involved:
Drop off your donations at A1 Blinds in Blaydon and Forest Hall
A1 Blinds HQ, 4-5 Tundry Way, Chainbridge Industrial Estate, Blaydon-on-Tyne NE21 5SJ

20 Station Rd N, Forest Hall, Newcastle upon Tyne NE12 9AD

 

Please ensure all preloved sleeping bags are washed before donating*

Find out more

North East customers can arrange a Free home consultation

Our experienced Home Consultants will visit you in your home at a time convenient to you, measure the windows you require, (they all carry our full collection of beautiful samples), once you have made your choice from our Inspirational Collection of Made to Measure Blinds, our “Home Consultant” will leave you with a “No obligation” quote, this quote is valid for 30 days.

Book an appointment

ABOUT US

Providing the best quality blinds in the region for over 35 years.

Excellent product choice
Expert craftsmen
Free product samples
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Frequently Asked Questions

Find answers to our most popular questions here.

Are the Blinds Covered Under a Warranty?

How Do I Report a Fault or Damage to My Blinds?

What Areas Do You Cover?

New Offers Available

FREE Home Consultation & Fitting Service

If you live in the North East, take advantage of our FREE expert consultation and fitting service. We’ll arrange a home visit at a time convenient for you and go through all your options. We promise there’ll be no high-pressure sales tactics or hidden fees, just friendly, down-to-earth advice from shading experts.

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Free Consultation, Free Measuringand Free Fitting!

Energy Efficiency: The Power of Blinds and Shutters in Your Home

Energy Efficiency: The Power of Blinds and Shutters in Your Home

Maximising Home Energy Efficiency with Blinds and Shutters

In the quest for a more energy-efficient home, every detail matters – from the appliances we choose to the quality of our insulation. Yet, there’s a hero in the battle against energy wastage that often goes unnoticed: the window blind and shutter. This blog explores the transformative power of blinds and shutters and their impact on your home’s energy efficiency.

The Role of Blinds and Shutters in Energy Conservation

Insulation often brings to mind images of thick walls and double-glazing. However, blinds and shutters are equally pivotal. A British Blind & Shutter Association (BBSA) study has found that as much as 18% of domestic heat loss occurs through windows. Installing blinds and shutters can significantly reduce this, creating a barrier to trap heat in the winter and reflect it in the summer.

Maximising Solar Gains

It’s not only about retaining warmth; it’s also about utilising natural heat when available. On sunny days, opening your blinds and shutters can allow solar energy to naturally warm your home, cutting down on the need for artificial heating. This method, known as ‘solar gain’, is a fundamental principle of energy-efficient home design.

The Night-Time Routine

As temperatures drop at night, so does the indoor warmth. Closing your blinds and shutters can help prevent this escape of heat, acting like an additional layer of insulation. The BBSA suggests that this can contribute to a significant reduction in energy bills, with potential heat loss reductions of up to 33%. This simple nightly routine can have a substantial impact on your home’s energy usage.

Seeing the Difference

Infrared imaging provides stark visual evidence of how blinds and shutters can reduce heat loss. Thermal images show cooler colours where blinds are closed, indicating retained heat, while red areas highlight heat escaping through open blinds. This is a strong visual endorsement of the importance of blinds and shutters in an energy-efficient home.

Economic and Environmental Impacts

Energy efficiency is about more than just personal savings; it’s about the sustainability of our planet. Research by the European Solar Shading Organisation (ES-SO) suggests that solar shading could save Europe €285 billion by 2050. Furthermore, the energy conserved equates to the environmental impact of planting 5 billion trees – a statistic that underlines the wider benefits of seemingly small domestic changes.

The Thermostat for Your Windows

Blinds and shutters are more than mere decoration; they serve as a thermostat for your windows, offering temperature control without the need to adjust your heating. With climate change leading to hotter summers, the ability to regulate indoor temperature is increasingly vital. By strategically adjusting blinds and shutters, homeowners can actively manage their living environment.

Effective Tools for Energy Conservation

Blinds and shutters transcend their aesthetic purpose; they are a primary defence against energy loss and a method for capturing natural heat. Considering we spend 90% of our time indoors, optimising our living spaces for comfort and efficiency is crucial. Adopting blinds and shutters is a step towards a future where our homes are not just comfortable but also bastions of energy efficiency. As you draw your blinds tonight, remember that you’re not just shielding against the night; you’re conserving energy, reducing costs, and contributing to a healthier planet.

What are the Best Blinds for Warmth? Discover Winter and Thermal Blinds

What are the Best Blinds for Warmth? Discover Winter and Thermal Blinds

As the cold months draw in (which they certainly are!), you’re probably already thinking of ways you can make your home warmer… without having the heating on 24/7 that is.

There are of course the usual ways of getting warmer. Putting a jumper on. Thicker socks. Warmer blankets. Winter Duvets. But have you thought about improving the place where much of the cold air is coming from? Your windows!

Let us introduce you to window insulation using thermal blinds and our top tips for energy efficiency…

What are Thermal Blinds?

We define thermal blinds as blinds that are designed to conserve energy in both winter and summer. Either helping to trap heat in your room or reflecting the sunlight off the windows. So, investing in new blinds for winter will benefit you in the summer months too! Thank us later!

Some blinds are naturally ‘thermal’ by design, some have a specific thermal lining, and some have a thermal treatment applied to the reverse. Either way, they all do a similar job keeping your home warm. So, to keep it simple, we’ll stick with ‘thermal blinds.’

How Do Thermal Blinds Keep the Warmth In?

By placing a layer of fabric in your window, thermal blinds will insulate your home by trapping a layer of air between the fabric and the window. The blinds act as a sealant to the window, preventing air from escaping through them.

However, the above is only true for correctly measured and installed blinds. The best practice for keeping the warmth in and the cold out is having blinds that fit properly. No matter what style of blinds you go for, thermal blinds or not, if they’re ill-fitting, they just won’t do the jobs you need them to do!

We recommend always opting for made to measure blinds. Not only will they improve the energy efficiency in your home, but they’ll also block the light better and of course, look much better too! Did you know at A1 Blinds we offer a free measuring and fitting service? We make it simple and easy for you to choose made to measure thermal blinds! You can book a home consultation on our website here.

Thermal Blinds

Blinds for Warmth and Thermal Blinds

All blinds – including regular blinds – will provide you with some degree of thermal benefit. This is because as we’ve already mentioned, placing fabric between your room and the window blocks much of the cold air from entering the room. However, we do have a range of thermal blinds designed specifically to improve heat retention in your home. These coated thermal blinds work a dream!

Our range of fabric thermal blinds have a solar protective coating applied to their reverse. The specialist coating is designed to retain heat by reducing thermal loss via windows in winter. Then, on summer days, it reduces heat build-up through reflection. Therefore helping to conserve the energy in your home, all year-round.

Not only that, but the solar protective coating will also decrease any glare coming into your room. Ideal for offices, living rooms, and any room with a screen! This fabric comes with a list of benefits for enhancing your home.

You’ll be glad to know that these fabrics are available across most of our blind styles. Choose from roller, vertical, roman, panel, and pleated thermal blinds. We have a thermal blind for every window and requirement!

Did you know that pleated blinds are naturally thermal enhancing? Pleated thermal blinds are made from architect-grade fabrics of superior quality. Their scientific-level fabric specifications make them the perfect thermal blinds choice for conservatories and caravans, or anywhere that the room is at a premium!

Stripe Roller Blinds

A1’s Top Tips

Not looking to upgrade your blinds? Take a look at our top two tips for using your blinds to keep your home warm in winter…

1) Close your blinds completely as soon as it gets dark in the evening. They’ll help to keep the warmth in your home by adding insulation to the windows. Some blinds will also reflect the heat back into the room.

2) Open your blinds completely in the daytime. You’ll benefit from the warmth of the sun’s rays when it’s out.

Are you looking to improve the warmth in your home with new blinds? Ask our team about our blinds with a solar protective coating. These thermal blinds will do just the trick for maintaining an ideal temperature, come rain or shine!

This range is limited, so don’t worry if there are no thermal blinds to your taste! Putting any fabric blind up at your window is a step in the right direction towards heat retention. Just be sure to follow our top tips for using your blinds to keep your home warm in winter.

Browse our website for inspiration today. Or to book your FREE home consultation appointment, contact us at info@a1blindsuk.co.uk or 0800 193 0417.

 

 

Window Blinds or Shutters: Enhancing Your Home’s Style and Comfort

Window Blinds or Shutters: Enhancing Your Home’s Style and Comfort

When it comes to selecting window dressings for your home, the choice often boils down to window blinds versus shutters. Each option brings its unique style and functionality, making the decision a significant one for homeowners seeking the perfect blend of aesthetics, privacy, and light control.

Introduction to Window Dressings: Blinds and Shutters

Window dressings are more than just decorative elements; they are integral to the functionality and style of a room. Blinds and shutters, two prevalent choices, offer distinct benefits and can significantly influence the ambience of a space.

Historical Evolution: A Glimpse into the Origins

The history of window coverings is rich and varied. Blinds have been around since 1100 to 1500 AD, evolving over centuries into modern designs. Shutters date back even further to Ancient Greece in 800 B.C., originally comprising wood and cloth. These historical roots highlight the long-standing importance of window dressings in home design.

Decoding the Aesthetics: Blinds and Their Versatility

Blinds are celebrated for their versatility. They allow homeowners to adjust light levels with ease, thanks to their tiltable slats. This flexibility extends to their design as well, with a plethora of colours, textures, and materials available.

Modern Design Choices: Exploring Blinds Varieties

Today’s blinds are far from one-dimensional. They come in a range of styles and materials, each suited to different needs and aesthetic preferences. From classic wooden blinds to modern aluminium ones, the options are vast.

Light and Privacy Control: The Flexibility of Blinds

One of the key advantages of blinds is their ability to control both light and privacy. By adjusting the slats, homeowners can regulate the amount of natural light in their space while maintaining privacy.

The Enduring Charm of Shutters

Shutters, with their solid construction, offer a different kind of appeal. They provide robust light blocking and an elegant, timeless look that can enhance both the interior and exterior of a home.

Material Matters: Types of Shutters and Their Benefits

Shutters come in various materials like wood, vinyl, and aluminium, each offering distinct advantages. Wood shutters add warmth and classic appeal, while vinyl and aluminium options provide durability and ease of maintenance.

Investment in Quality: The Long-Term Value of Shutters

Shutters, though often more expensive, are considered a long-term investment. They can add value to a home, thanks to their durability and timeless appeal.

Factors to Consider When Choosing Between Blinds and Shutters

Considerations such as light control, privacy needs, maintenance, and cost play crucial roles in this decision. Each homeowner’s preferences and requirements will dictate the ideal choice.

Consultation with Experts: Seeking Professional Advice

Seeking professional advice can be beneficial. Please contact one of our blind consultants who can provide insights and recommendations based on individual needs and home styles.

Conclusion: Blinds vs. Shutters – Balancing Aesthetics and Functionality

In summary, both blinds and shutters offer unique benefits, and the choice ultimately depends on individual needs and preferences. Whether you prioritise flexibility, style, insulation, or budget, there is an option that will meet your requirements and enhance your home’s comfort and aesthetics.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the main differences between blinds and shutters? Blinds and shutters differ in design, material, light control, privacy, insulation, cost, and maintenance requirements. Blinds offer more flexibility in light control, while shutters provide robust insulation and a classic look.

How do blinds and shutters impact a home’s resale value? High-quality window dressings, especially shutters, can enhance a home’s resale value by improving its aesthetic appeal and functionality.

Are shutters more energy-efficient than blinds? Generally, shutters provide better insulation and energy efficiency due to their solid construction and materials.

How often should I replace blinds or shutters? The lifespan of blinds and shutters varies based on material and usage. Blinds may need replacement more frequently, while shutters can last for decades with proper maintenance.

Which are better for allergy sufferers: blinds or shutters? Shutters are often a better choice for allergy sufferers as they are easier to clean thoroughly, reducing the accumulation of dust and allergens.

How To Find Us

Want to visit us in person? We have two locations open to the public.

Blaydon Factory & Showroom

Visit our Blaydon factory and showroom to explore the best of A1 Blinds. Receive a warm welcome from a shading expert and view a vast selection of samples.

View Location

Forest Hall Showroom

We have a new showroom on Station Road North, Forest Hall. This covers the North Tyneside area and features a big collection of blinds for you to admire at your leisure.

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