If you like that old-school charm and classic style, timber-look Venetian blinds might be your thing. To help you learn more, we’ve compiled this guide to read first.
Blinds are no longer restricted to the usual bland choices. They’re also no longer limited to roller blinds. We’re constantly amazed at how different and innovative they are today, and want you to explore that too.
Wooden-look Venetian blinds (as they’re also known), are certainly worth looking into. They look like shutters with the same colonial face and feel, but what makes them different?
Let’s find out.
Timber look Venetian blinds vs. Shutters
Timber look Venetian blinds and shutters (also known as plantation shutters), are both window furnishings with precise light control. That’s pretty much where the similarities end though.
This is one of those times you shouldn’t judge a book by its cover. Despite them looking very much alike, they function differently.
Let’s compare the two with each other to get a better idea.
HOW THEY’RE MADE
Shutters:
- Can be made with a range of materials, including wood, aluminium, or PVC (timber look)
- Natural thermal traits that help with heating and cooling your space
- Complete privacy when closed; zero visibility from outside
- Materials used for shutters are generally heavy-duty, so can be installed inside or out
Venetian Blinds:
- Can be made with a range of materials, including wood, aluminium, or PVC (timber look)
- Typically comes in 2-inch wide horizontal slats. Slats are in turn connected by cords/ fabric strips
- Not built for external use like shutters unless they’re aluminium
Venetian blinds including timber look venetian blinds are not the same as shutters, with the former falling into the category of blinds.
1. Ultimate flexibility and control with timber-look venetian blinds
When it comes to fine-tuned privacy and light control, venetian blinds are a winner. The blades are solid, but flexible to be angled at just the right degree. So no matter the time of day, you can decide how much or how little light you want.
In fact, this is their star power. They’re so easy to operate, giving you the option of choosing how much privacy you’d like as well.
They’re especially suited if you live close to a neighbour or busy footpath. There’s usually a lot of visibility into the space in such areas, making venetian blinds the ideal choice.
2. They’re durable and easy to maintain too
Let’s be honest… with all that we’ve got going on in our everyday lives, who has the time of day to launch into a cleaning spree? The theme of the 21st century is convenience; and that’s what we’ve come to expect, especially in our homes. Naturally, this extends to window furnishings, including timber look venetian blinds.
You may remember from your childhood, parents and grandparents swathed in yards of curtains ready for cleaning. The whole process is an event in itself. It’s almost like a reckoning of sorts. First there’s moving about the furniture, then grabbing a stepladder to stand on to unhook the curtains. This takes a bit before it all piles up in a heap waiting for its trip to The Machine.
Once the pile finally makes it there, you now have to decide whether the machine can handle more than one. Most often, a maximum of 2 curtains are washed at a time. Imagine if you have curtains throughout the house. You’d need to declare a holiday.
Blinds like timber-look venetian blinds eliminate all this.They can stay put, and all you need is a slightly damp cloth which is safe to use on wood-look. Just wipe them down in a matter of minutes and Bob’s your Uncle. You’re all done!
But cleaning timber Venetian blinds on the other hand, requires a bit more attention. Let’s find out more:
– How to Clean Timber Venetian Blinds
- Steer clear of harsh substances – Never use anything that’s a harsh detergent or chemical. Remember this is wood, and chemicals can damage the finish.
- Avoid liquid-based products and excess water. Wood warps when liquid is absorbed.
- Clean regularly: The best course of action is to care for them on a daily basis. This is so that soiling can be tackled along the way, instead of as a build-up down the line requiring deeper cleaning. Just dust them once or twice a week.
- Open out the slats to lay flat. Then remove dust using downward strokes.
- Flip the slats the other way, and repeat the same.
- If you have a stubborn stain, use a dry paper towel to dislodge it first. Be mindful of pressure applied as well. Alternatively, mix some lemon juice with alcohol and dab on the stain. This doesn’t damage the wood, but be sure to wipe it all down so it’s completely dry.
3. Visually appealing
As much you obviously want your home to be functional, looking good is right up there as well.
These blinds look super chic, ultra-modern and minimalistic so they’re easy on the eye. They have the ability to automatically ‘cleanse’ a space unlike fabrics which can look cluttered. They’re especially beautiful in spaces like bathrooms where neat, clean lines exist as they blend really well.
If you’re looking for timeless elegance with a modern twist, you’ve found it.
4. Measuring
Right, now we get down to business.
Now one of the first questions you might be asking yourself is ‘Why on earth should I bother with DIY?’
Fair question. But what if we told you it’d save you quite a bit of money and waiting time? No hanging about to book in installers, only to have them cancel or re-schedule. You call the shots. You simply measure and install, we manufacture and deliver. Easy!
If you haven’t heard it from us already, the right measurements are important. But we also know not everyone is a pro with tools so we’ve come up with the simplest way to get them. In fact, we’ve not only included step-by-step instructions, there are also videos.
Here are two step-by-step videos of how to measure for custom-cut wooden-look venetian blinds accurately:
OUTSIDE WINDOW FRAME
INSIDE WINDOW FRAME
Note: Always measure in millimetres only.
WIDTH
a) Measure the exact width you would like the blind to cover.
b) Measure to the outside of the architrave or at least 50mm past the window opening.
HEIGHT
a) Measure the exact height you would like the blind to cover.
b) Measure outside of the architrave or at least 50mm past the window opening.
NOTE: The blind will be supplied at the sizes provided (we won’t make any deductions).
Note: Always measure in millimetres only.
DEPTH
Measure the depth of the window frame to ensure you have enough space for the blind to operate.
WIDTH
a) Measure the width inside the window frame in 3 places from left to right.
b) Make a note of the smallest measurement.
HEIGHT
a) Measure the height inside the window frame in 3 places from top to bottom.
b) Make a note of the smallest measurement.
NOTE: We’ll make slight deductions to ensure the blind fits your window.
5. A neutral choice that adds contrast
Might sound contradictory, but it’s true. Because of their classic looks they’re not exactly considered rebels in the world of blinds. But they’re unique, so stand out on their own, and have an instantly grounding effect.
They’re also not like any other type of blind. The closest window furnishing they come to is shutters. So they can add contrast to their surroundings with their signature slats and earthy colours, at a lesser cost.
Bear in mind that timber Venetian blinds and timer-look are two different things. The former is best suited for areas without moisture, as they can warp and peel if not taken care of. Got any other questions about venetian blinds for us? Fire away. You can reach out to us and let us know your concerns. Our friendly team is on-hand to help guide you.
