Choosing interior blinds: more difficult than you think?

The forerunner of window coverings is of course the time-honored curtain, which is suitable for almost any room. They have been around for many centuries as a beautiful form of blackout, soundproofing, maintaining heat in the home and keeping out the cold. In addition to the great advantages, there are also some disadvantages. Consider, for example, the purchase costs, regular maintenance, fingerprints and whether they are slightly less suitable for outside viewing.

Roller blinds and venetian blinds were only introduced in the 1960s. Over time, several other types have been added, such as:

1. Roman blinds, with a more classic look
2. Single and double pleated blinds, also called honeycomb curtains
3. Duo roller blinds, as a variation on the traditional roller blind
4. Louvered sun blinds, both vertically and horizontally

With each type you have a choice of colors, fabric types, filtering and more. You then have a choice of operating method: do you want a traditional pull-up cord or would you like to be able to operate remotely? Electric indoor blinds are now found everywhere, the possibilities are unprecedented.

Advantages of indoor sun protection:

• An effective protection against sunlight and heat
• You prevent unwanted views from neighbors: you filter or close each window as desired
• Is cheaper than curtains
• The design is light, sleek and beautiful. Maintenance is simple
• Many variations possible in types, design and operation

Want to manually operate your indoor sun blinds?

Because we sometimes use too much arm strength with the pull-up cords, there is a risk of damage. Especially if we do this too hastily. We also don't like crooked indoor sun blinds or pull-up cords that get tangled. Therefore, careful handling and regular maintenance can extend its service life.

You also have to deal with opening and closing the sun blinds every day. This is not such a problem with a single sun blind, but with several? Especially if they are a bit more difficult to reach. In practice, out of convenience, we often leave them in a fixed position. That's quite a shame, we don't make optimal use of the possibilities.

Indoor sun blinds with app control

In outdoor sun blinds, the time-honored pull-up belt was replaced as standard years ago by a built-in motor with remote control. It is therefore not illogical that the interior sun blinds would follow suit. The motor provides always gradual power and action. The result is a much longer lifespan. The power supply can be via the mains or wirelessly (battery and solar panel).

It is no longer unknown that you can operate products at home with an app. After all, you always have your phone in your pocket, who can live without it? The disadvantage is that we experience the abundance of apps, we sometimes can't see the forest for the trees. Do you also experience it that way?

How great is it that the Somfy TaHoma switch can control many products in your home from a single app. You can send each sun blind to the desired position via the TaHoma. Per piece, in groups per facade or, if necessary, all at the same time. You can also easily connect all kinds of other products to the TaHoma, such as your garage door, lighting and alarm.

Would you rather operate with a regular remote control or wireless wall switch? No problem, Somfy offers you plenty of choice!

Do you do it yourself or...?

Many people choose to assemble and install their indoor sun blinds all by themselves. Nothing wrong with that of course. Well-known (large) retail chains show you their range in the store and the prices are often clearly stated. Everything aimed at simple and fast sales and with a standard range. There are only limited variations. Customization is also available to order at a number of chains. Manual operation still predominates here, but there are now also options for electric operation.

There are various providers of indoor sun blinds available on the internet. Using filters, tips and customer reviews, you can easily order everything yourself from home.

In both cases we choose something that we find beautiful and/or beneficial. The effect on the overall design is difficult to estimate. Advice from a professional is not really possible, so we take quite a bit of risk. And that is actually a shame because we are talking about a significant investment when it comes to multiple windows.

In short, if you choose to do the ordering and installation yourself, you must also:

1. measure everything exactly yourself
2. determine the color, motif and degree of darkening
3. place the order and pay immediately
4. Check all ordered parts carefully upon delivery
5. you have to install everything yourself (or with the help of a handy friend or neighbor)

It is also good to realize: the risk of measurement errors, forgotten parts or damage during installation lies entirely with you. The manufacturer's warranty does not cover this.

That is why you choose a specialist

An interior sun protection specialist knows everything about good sun protection. The Somfy Experts, who can be found via our dealer locator, are the right place for personal advice, information and a demonstration. No hassle with figuring things out yourself, you opt for complete care. Based on your situation, wishes and budget, the dealer will show you the possibilities and options. A Somfy Expert provides a full guarantee on delivered products, installation and services.

A few tips:

1. select a local Somfy Expert for indoor sun blinds via our dealer locator and make an appointment
2. Take the approximate dimensions of the windows in advance where you want window coverings. This is to be able to prepare a possible global quotation
3. it is useful to include color samples and/or RAL color numbers in the conversation based on the existing situation (walls, frames and furnishings)
4. Photos also work well if you don't have color samples.
5. do you opt for ultimate convenience and comfort? Then think about what remote control could mean for you. The dealer can tell you all about this.

Would you prefer an immediate home appointment? The dealer will then come by with sample books and samples. You will receive professional advice and a clear quote. A showroom visit will follow later.

And the specialist will get to work for you!

After you have received, viewed, discussed and approved the quotation, the Somfy dealer will make an appointment with you for the day of installation.

In the meantime, the sun blind manufacturer will start with the actual assembly. Production time usually takes several weeks and is shipped to the dealer upon completion. He also carries out a check. On the day of installation, the dealer will take all parts with him and will ensure a neat and reliable installation at your home.

The final step is the joint final inspection and instruction.

Have fun with your new electric indoor sun blinds!