What to consider before buying cafe blinds
Before investing in new outdoor blinds for your home, it’s a good idea to carefully consider what type of blinds you’d like to buy, how much money you’re looking to spend and what separates quality cafe blinds from other outdoor blinds.
Here are 5 main points to bear in mind when you are browsing for new cafe blinds for your outdoor area.
The difference between cafe blinds and other blinds
There are 2 distinct differences between café blinds and shade blinds.
Cafe blinds are made of clear or tinted PVC, allowing for un restricted views.
I’m sure you have seen this style of blind when dining at a restaurant or café in the Winter months.
You can thank café blinds for keeping you warm and sheltered from the weather when seated outside.
Closer to home, this option is popular among people of whom would like to maintain a clear view from their balcony or of their garden.
They are also great for families with children who spend a lot of time outdoors, making it easier to keep an eye on them without having to be in and out of the house constantly.
Shade blinds are comprised of polyethylene twine coated in PVC, for durability.
This is then spun and woven into the blinds material.
If you are looking for an escape from the harsh sun, or to create a bit of privacy in your backyard, shade blinds are the option for you.
At Australian Outdoor Living we have 2 weaves available, offering different levels of shade and privacy.
Our Bella Vista shade blinds offer a moderate level of privacy and allows you to enjoy your view in the comfort of the cool shade.
This material reduces the ability to see in, without blocking your view.
Our Bella Opaque material has a tighter weave.
Boasting the greatest level of shade and privacy within our material range, this material is perfect for families wanting maximum shade or those with nosey neighbours.
So which blind sounds like you?
Budgeting
With so many different types of outdoor blinds materials and operations available, it’s important to create a set budget on what you would like to spend and try to keep to it.
Many custom made blinds will vary in price depending on what it is you’re after.
If you want higher quality custom designed outdoor blinds and you prefer for them to be manufactured in Australia, expect to spend a little more than you would on a cheaper brand.
The most important thing to determine is what you want from your new blinds and seek the best style that suits your particular needs.
It’s also a good idea to keep in mind how the cheaper options will look 2 or 3 years down the track.
Is it worth spending a little more if it means they will last longer?
Aesthetic value and practical use
Outdoor blinds not only enhance your lifestyle, but can also complement your home whilst adding value.
Selecting the colours can be daunting, but don’t let be as we are here to help!
A general rule is to look at your façade, patio, pergola or verandah and note what colours are the accent colours.
Maybe your gutters and window frame?
Otherwise you may want something a little more modern and so may opt for a simplistic neutral colour that suits any home decor.
I rule however is when it comes to shade blinds, darker colours are best suited to maximise the ability to look out into your garden.
When it comes to the operation selection for you café blind or shade blind, there are a few questions you need to ask yourself.
Am I after a manual blind, or would I prefer an automated blind?
Do I prefer outdoor blinds situated in a track or are you after clip and tension blinds?
Think about what you value and the price you are willing to pay for more premium options.
Research
It’s important to take into consideration the quality of the product you’re looking to invest in.
Regardless of how much time you spend researching your new project, make sure you compare apples with apples.
Some brands will be cheaper than others, but are they providing the same quality, service and warranty as the next company?
Australian Outdoor Living proudly only uses extruded, Marine Grade PVC made from a single sheet of thick PVC.
Unfortunately, calendered PVC, two thinner sheets of PVC laminated together, is commonly used throughout the industry.
This type of PVC has a much higher likelihood of producing a ‘milky haze’ you see in some cafe blinds in comparison to Extruded PVC which has high optical clarity.
If you are well informed, by the time someone visits your home to quote on a job you will have a better idea of what you are looking for and will likely spend less time deciding which company to choose for the project.
Purchase and install
Once you have selected the type of outdoor blinds you want installed at your home, consider enlisting professionals to do the work for you.
This will ensure everything is done properly and you won’t be wasting time trying to repair blinds that should have been working well from day one.
Want to know more about cafe blinds?
If you think bistro blinds might be the think you’re looking for to jazz up your verandah, check out our extra resources below for more info:
- Get the answers to our most frequently asked questions on outdoor blinds
- Find out how your blinds can be useful year round
As you can see, there are quite a few things to consider when you a thinking of installing outdoor blinds.
We hope this article has helped arm you with information and things to look out for.
For more information on what outdoor blinds may be best for your home, get in touch with a local expert and be sure to ask plenty of questions.
You may like to speak with an experienced handyman or tradesperson who has experience with these products.
Of course, you are always welcome to call Australian Outdoor Living.
Contact us for a free measure and quote.
Australian Outdoor Living is passionate about helping people love their life outdoors. We offer a range of products, including:
- Outdoor blinds
- Artificial grass
- Roller shutters
- Carports
- Timber decking
- Pergolas, verandah and patios
- Outdoor Kitchens
Have you been thinking about renovating your home? Fill out the free measure and quote form at the top of this article and a member of our dedicated sales team will be in touch.
