What Are Made to Measure Blinds?

What Are Made to Measure Blinds?

When it comes to choosing new blinds for your home, you have two options. Made to measure blinds, or ready-made, off the shelf blinds. In this blog, we’ll explain the difference, and why we champion made to measure blinds here at A1!

Made to measure is a term that’s thrown around often. But what does it mean? Made to measure blinds are bespoke blinds that are made exactly to your specifications. This includes everything from their size, fit, and fabric, to the accessories, and even which side the control chain sits on!

In comparison, ready-made blinds are available off the shelf. They come in set sizes, colours, and designs as standard. They cannot be personalised. Unfortunately, this often results in ill-fitting blinds that are not quite right! That’s why at A1, we would always recommend choosing made to measure blinds…

We’ve been manufacturing made to measure blinds across the North East region for over 30 years! We’re an expert team of craftsmen with a wealth of experience in producing and fitting a wide range of high-quality blinds and shutters. Our range covers everything from rollers, Romans, verticals, and more.

Why Made to Measure Blinds Are the Best

  1. Made to Measure Blinds Are the Perfect Fit for Your Window

Every home – and window – is different. This can make purchasing new blinds tricky. 

The main reason for choosing made to measure blinds is that the overall finish is better. This is because they are produced with your exact window in mind. Therefore, they’ll look the perfect fit with a clean-cut finish. Having a good fit will help to keep more light out, offer more privacy, and help to keep the warmth in too!

A ready-made alternative is likely to need to be cut down to size to suit your window width. Cutting an off the shelf blind can sometimes result in inaccurate lengths or frayed edges, plus, you can never guarantee they’ll properly fit your window! Unlike with made to measure blinds.

Made to measure blinds

  1. A Huge Range of Options for Made to Measure Blinds

Another reason you should choose made to measure blinds is that they’re made exactly to your style and requirements.

All our blinds are produced from scratch in our Blaydon factory, so we can provide the exact blinds that you need for your space. This could include a dimout lining for a bedroom, splash-proof fabric for your kitchen, or a black metal chain to match the rest of your décor! The world of made to measure blinds brings so many options when it comes to dressing your windows.

Made to measure blinds give you the freedom to create the perfect blinds for your home. Not only do A1 offer 11 different blind styles, but we also have thousands of colour and fabric options to choose from too!

Did you know you can order up to 5 free samples from our website? This will make choosing your made to measure blinds so much easier! Simply head to the product page and add a sample to your basket. Alternatively, you can visit our showrooms to see all our products on display.

Venetian made to measure blinds

  1. The Best Quality Made to Measure Blinds & Service

When you choose made to measure blinds from A1, not only are you guaranteed beautiful, perfectly fitting blinds, you’ll also receive an A1 service.

Made to measure blinds are made to much higher standards than ready-made blinds. At A1, our expert team use only the best quality materials to produce the best quality made to measure blinds in the region. This excellent quality makes them more durable so they shouldn’t need replacing as often as regular blinds would. Of course, they really do look the part too!

We offer free home consultations whereby our team will talk you through your options and help you to make the best decision for your needs. During this consultation, we’ll also measure your windows and bring along lots of samples to help you pick. Together, we’ll work out the best fabric, design, and style for your made to measure blinds.

Vertical window blinds

Which Blinds Can Be Made to Measure? 

You’ll be glad to know that all our blind styles can be made to measure. This includes Venetian blinds, perfect fit blinds, pleated blinds, allusion blinds, shutters and much more! They work great for your windows, conservatories, and doors alike!

So, no matter which blinds you fancy, rest assured that A1 can produce them to your exact specification. You can take a look at our full range of made to measure blinds styles on our website or contact the team to find out more.

Have we inspired you to choose made to measure blinds? Book a free home or virtual consultation, or visit one of our showrooms today! We’ll help you to find a look you love.

Warmth and Elegance: Wooden Venetian Blinds

Warmth and Elegance: Wooden Venetian Blinds

Enhance Your Home’s Ambiance with Wooden Venetian Blinds

Wooden Venetian Blinds are more than just window coverings; they’re a transformative element for your home’s interior. In this comprehensive guide, we delve into their numerous advantages, guide you through selecting the perfect match for your windows, and offer straightforward maintenance tips to ensure they remain a stunning feature in your home.

Why Opt for Wooden Venetian Blinds?

A Touch of Homeliness:

Wood inherently brings a sense of warmth and invitation. With an array of wood types and finishes available, Wooden Venetian Blinds seamlessly complement both contemporary and traditional homes.

Versatility in Style:

Whether it’s for your kitchen, living room, or home office, these blinds harmonise with various decor styles, making them an adaptable option for any space.

The Advantages of Wooden Venetian Blinds

Robust and Reliable:

Crafted from sturdy materials, these blinds are not just aesthetically pleasing but also robust enough for everyday use.

Light and Privacy on Your Terms:

Adjust the slats to your liking, balancing natural light and privacy with ease.

Energy Efficiency:

Their insulating properties help maintain comfortable temperatures year-round, potentially reducing your heating and cooling expenses.

Selecting the Ideal Blinds for Your Space

A Spectrum of Choices:

Our extensive range of sizes and styles ensures you’ll find the perfect fit for your windows.

Long-lasting Appeal:

Our blinds are designed for both durability and style, promising to be a lasting addition to your home.

Maintenance Made Simple

Effortless Cleaning:

A quick dusting or a wipe with a damp cloth is all it takes to keep your blinds looking new.

Long-term Care:

With minimal maintenance, you can prevent common issues like warping or fading.

The Perfection of Perfect Fit

Perfect Fit Wooden Venetian Blinds offer a sublime blend of functionality and aesthetics. Custom-made for your windows, they provide a sleek and streamlined appearance without the need for drilling.

Why Choose Wooden Venetian Perfect Fit Blinds?

Tailored to Your Windows:

Each blind is custom-made, ensuring a flawless fit.

Simple Installation:

Their design allows for easy attachment to your window frames, offering a seamless installation process.

Space-Saving and Safe:

Their flush fit with window frames and lack of loose cords make them an ideal, safe option, especially for households with children.

Diverse Styles:

Choose from a variety of styles to add timeless elegance to your space.

Expert Assistance at Your Doorstep

At A1 Blinds, we prioritise your satisfaction and convenience:

Home Consultations: Our experts bring samples to you, facilitating an informed decision in the comfort of your home.

No-Pressure Quotes: Receive a comprehensive quote valid for 30 days, with no obligation to purchase.

Flexible Appointments: We adapt to your schedule, ensuring a hassle-free experience.

Friendly, Relaxed Service: Our team focuses on your happiness, not hard sales.

Best Price Guarantee: We promise unbeatable prices for unparalleled quality.

Serving the North-East with Pride

Covering areas from Alnwick/Seahouses to Tees Valley and Haltwhistle, A1 Blinds is your go-to source for quality window solutions. Unsure if we’re in your area? Just call us at 0191 499 0099.

A Touch of Warmth and Style

Wooden Venetian Blinds offer a beautiful blend of practicality, aesthetic appeal, and energy efficiency. With A1 Blinds, discovering and fitting the ideal blinds for your home is effortless. Elevate your home’s comfort and style today!

Beat the Winter Damp: How Window Blinds Can Help Prevent Mould and Condensation

Beat the Winter Damp: How Window Blinds Can Help Prevent Mould and Condensation

As winter approaches, homeowners often seek effective methods to maintain warmth and reduce energy consumption. One practical and aesthetically pleasing solution is the strategic use of window blinds. Beyond their decorative appeal, window blinds offer significant benefits in insulation, light control, and energy efficiency during the colder months.

Enhancing Insulation

Windows are a primary source of heat loss in homes, accounting for up to 30% of residential heating energy use. Properly selected and installed window blinds can serve as an additional barrier, reducing heat loss and maintaining a comfortable indoor temperature. For instance, cellular shades, also known as honeycomb blinds, are designed with a cellular structure that traps air, providing excellent insulation and contributing to energy efficiency.

Energy Efficiency and Cost Savings

By improving insulation, window blinds can lead to significant energy savings. Reducing heat loss means less reliance on heating systems, which translates to lower energy bills. According to research, blinds and shutters can reduce heat loss through windows by up to 33%, highlighting their effectiveness in enhancing energy efficiency.

Condensation Control

Condensation on windows is a common issue during winter, leading to potential problems such as mould growth and damage to window coverings. Properly selected and maintained window blinds can play a role in reducing condensation by providing an insulating barrier between the cold window surface and the warmer indoor air. This insulation helps to maintain a more consistent window temperature, thereby reducing the likelihood of condensation forming.

Light Control and Comfort

In addition to their insulating properties, window blinds allow for precise control over natural light, enabling homeowners to maximise daylight during shorter winter days while maintaining privacy. This flexibility not only enhances comfort but also contributes to energy savings by reducing the need for artificial lighting.

Aesthetic Appeal

Modern window blinds are available in a variety of materials and designs, allowing homeowners to choose options that complement their interior décor while providing functional benefits. For instance, Roman blinds with thermal linings are both stylish and functional, offering excellent insulation while enhancing the aesthetic of any room.

Maintenance and Longevity

To ensure that window blinds continue to provide these benefits, regular maintenance is essential. Dusting and cleaning blinds prevent the build-up of dirt and allergens, maintaining indoor air quality and the blinds’ appearance. Additionally, proper care extends the lifespan of the blinds, making them a cost-effective investment in home comfort and efficiency.

Winter Warmth and Style: How Window Blinds Can Transform Your Home

Incorporating window blinds into your home’s design during winter offers multiple advantages, from improved insulation and energy efficiency to enhanced comfort and aesthetic appeal. By selecting the appropriate type of blinds and maintaining them properly, homeowners can create a warm, inviting, and energy-efficient environment throughout the colder months.

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.

© 2024 A1 Blinds