Singaporeans are primarily staying in Housing & Development Board (HDB) flats and condos that come with a balcony. The outdoor space on the balcony can be used to place your beloved potted plants or even to place chairs to unwind and read a book. As much as that sounds appealing, balconies are prone to harsh sunlight and rain, so installing outdoor blinds is the ultimate solution. An outdoor blind protects you from the sun and shelters you from the wind and rain.
Which Type of Outdoor Blinds Should You Get?
Choosing the right type of outdoor blinds for your balcony comes down to the aesthetic you want to go for. There are different types of outdoor blinds to choose from, each with unique features and benefits.
Zip Track Blinds
Zip track blinds are advanced and designed without the use of ropes, cords, zips, or wires. The side-mounted tracks function like a zipper system that guides along the tracks. They move the screen up and down while keeping the fabric secured in place from flapping in the wind. They are significantly beneficial for HDB flats and condos because zip track blinds are fully sealed, and they provide better protection from the weather and privacy in shared living spaces. You can have them installed to operate manually or motorised, making them convenient for your home.
Roller Blinds
Roller blinds are a classic option for your balcony. They are made from a single piece of fabric that rolls up and down using a chain or a motor. Roller blinds are convenient and easy to operate, and they come in many colours and materials that blend naturally with your balcony décor and aesthetics. They allow you to adjust the amount of shade and natural light you need. However, they are not fully sealed, and they may not provide you with much protection from the weather or privacy for your home.
Important Factors When Selecting Balcony Blinds
Balconies are susceptible to vulnerabilities since they have no walls. Hot in the summer, wet from the rain, and lacking privacy, which is important to homeowners in Singapore. When selecting an outdoor blind for your balcony, durability, style, and customisable solutions are things to take note of.
Weather Resistant
Outdoor blinds handle the harsh sun, blinding glare, and sudden rain showers well, without interrupting your balcony space and outdoor activities, keeping them dry and usable.
Material & Durability
In addition to resisting weather, choosing outdoor blinds made from durable materials ensures the longevity of your blinds and reduces the need to replace them as often. Fabrics that can withstand wear and tear can be a bit more expensive, but they are worth it compared to getting cheaper quality blinds that most likely struggle in extreme weather conditions. It is also important to consider anti-static, anti-fungal, and fire-retardant fabrics for safe and low-maintenance use.
Privacy & Light Control
Balconies bring in natural light to your home, and installing an outdoor blind reduces the amount of light that enters the space and keeps your balcony private, especially if your home balcony is facing neighbours or the road. It is best to find a balance between shielding your space and still being able to enjoy your view at will.
Aesthetic & Personalisation
Choosing an outdoor blind needs to fit your balcony’s aesthetics and needs. Wooden and bamboo materials make your balcony feel more rustic and natural, or you can opt for the sleek modern design options we see today, like zip screens. You can customise your blinds with features like sensors that automatically adjust your blinds based on weather conditions like sun, wind, or rain.
Motorised or Manual Operation
The choice falls under convenience and cost. Motorised outdoor blinds, or smart blinds, are controlled electronically for effortless adjustments with the press of a button. In contrast, manual outdoor blinds are operated hands-on using a crank system with a detachable handle. Motorised blinds are the smart shade in Singapore for homeowners with balconies, and they can be considered an investment for convenience.
Easy to Use
Following from the factor above, outdoor blinds that are easy to operate encourage you to use them regularly. Manual blinds are typically user-friendly, but motorised blinds provide unparalleled convenience. You would not want to be fumbling with ropes and levers that are difficult to use when the weather starts turning.
Warranty
Select from a trusted supplier and look for warranties that cover the system, fabric, and motor (if opting) for the longevity of your outdoor blinds.
Compliance with MCST Guidelines
Condos, especially, are subject to Management Corporation Strata Title (MCST) guidelines in Singapore. Most condos allow specific colours or fabrics that homeowners must observe. This helps maintain the overall look of the building. Before buying an outdoor blind, check with your MCST to see if your preferred blind passes the checklist.
Selecting the right outdoor blinds for your balcony can elevate your living experience. Block out the harsh Singapore weather with good-quality blinds and a trustworthy installer like Degrille. Let us provide your home with shade, privacy, and protection.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do Outdoor Blinds Reduce Heat?
Yes! The materials that the majority of outdoor blinds are made from reduce heat, making your outdoor space feel cooler on hot sunny days.