Do you live in a block of flats and like to relax on your balcony? The sun's intense rays, the wind or the curious looks of your neighbours can disturb your blissful relaxation in the fresh air. We know what to do! Try our tips on how to keep your balcony private and protected from the changing weather conditions. Check out how to cover your balcony in a block of flats with Roman blinds.
Why shield your block balcony from the sun? Advantages of this solution
A temporary or permanent balcony cover is a good solution for at least several reasons. The most important of these are:
- Providing privacy for yourself, other household members and balcony guests - do you want to create an intimate corner where you can enjoy a coffee, read a book or host friends in peace? By covering your balcony, you won't have to worry about the presence of neighbours or the prying eyes of passers-by.
- Protection from intense sun and UV rays - you will appreciate this advantage especially on hot days. Roman blinds and other types of balcony covers effectively protect against excessive sunlight.
- Protection from changeable weather conditions - strong winds or rain are just as bad for relaxing on the balcony. By protecting this part of your home with a suitable, robust cover, you don't have to worry about this.
- Protection of objects and flowers on the balcony - with the cover you will also protect furniture, balcony boxes, ornamental grasses, annual vines, fragrant peas and other plants that are on the balcony.
- Add variety to the design - by installing a stylish cover, your balcony will become more elegant, and if you opt for a model with an unusual design, it will gain originality.
How do you shield your block balcony from the sun? What solutions can you opt for?
Until a few years ago, balcony guards were mainly made of those materials available to the homeowner. Unfortunately, this type of protection was usually not durable and looked unattractive. Not only that: they sometimes damaged the balcony structure.
Fortunately, times have changed and today you can choose from a variety of proven and safe ways to screen your balcony. One of these is a sunshade sail, which protects against harmful UV rays and regulates the intensity of light. Or you can opt for wicker mats - these made of natural material will work especially well for a boho-style balcony.
What can you use to screen a balcony in a block of flats? Check out the Roman blinds!
Another less obvious but practical solution is Roman terrace blinds. This type of curtain combines functionality, convenience of use and elegant design. Just as importantly, they are available in many designs and colours to choose from. This makes it easy to find the right model for you.
Remember to check the colour of your roller blinds for sun protection before you buy. The darker the blind, the higher the UV protection. Light and pastel-coloured curtains, on the other hand, will give your balcony a gentle twilight and therefore a cosier feel.
Read also: What to cover balcony windows in a block of flats?
What are the characteristics of Roman blinds? Do they protect the balcony well?
Outdoor Roman blinds are covers that can be used in spaces such as terraces, pergolas or balconies. They are usually made of materials resistant to adverse weather conditions: they protect not only from the sun, but also from rain or strong wind.
These types of curtains are a combination of traditional Roman blinds and covers adapted for outdoor use. They will also prove useful as balcony covers, as they are resistant to dampness and thus to mould, which is not difficult to come by in such places.
Advantages of horizontal Roman blinds as sun protection for balconies
Among the many advantages of Roman blinds adapted for installation on balconies are:
- Functionality - Roman blinds protect you from intense sun, wind and rain. They will also provide you with privacy, allowing you to create a homely relaxation zone on your own balcony.
- Versatility - Roman blinds will work well on balconies on lower floors and those on upper floors. They will also fit in with various arrangements. A white roller blind of this type will emphasise the character of a boho balcony abounding with lively plants, while a dark model will give such a space a modern touch.
- Aesthetics - Roman blinds look impressive not only as terrace covers. They look equally good as curtains decorating balconies. Especially as you can choose any colour of roller blinds to match the rest of the arrangement.
- Easy to keep clean - Roman blinds require regular washing, but you only need to do it once in a while, preferably at the end of the summer season. Just as importantly, they are not prone to dirt build-up, especially if you choose a model made of impregnated plastic.
- Durability - Roman blinds are characterised by high resistance to mechanical damage, making them shields for many years and not just for a few seasons.
- Easy to operate - which, in most models, comes down to control by means of strings and special handles.
For more information on the advantages of this type of cover, see the article: How to shield a terrace from the sun? Roman blinds for the terrace are ideal.
Shading the balcony from the sun with Roman blinds step by step
To install such a balcony cover, follow the tips below:
- Measure your balcony and choose your blinds - check the width and length of your balcony. Remember to read the measuring instructions beforehand, which you will find on the website of the retailer or manufacturer of the blinds you have chosen.
- Prepare materials and tools - make sure your roller blind kit comes with all the accessories you need to install them, such as brackets.
- Fit the shades - following the shade manufacturer's instructions, fit the brackets to the ceiling or balcony wall and then place the blinds into them.
Check that the balcony cover is installed correctly - make sure the blind is securely fastened.
- Adjust the position of the blinds to your preferences - adjust the degree of shading and the amount of light penetrating the balcony to suit your needs.
How to shield a balcony in a block of flats from the sun? Summary
After reading our guide, you already know what to use to shield the balcony of your block of flats from the sun's intense rays and how to protect yourself from the unwanted glances of your neighbours. It is worth betting on Roman blinds, which are applicable not only on the terrace, but also on the balcony and other places you want to shade. Such balcony shades will provide you with privacy, increase your comfort and that of other household members, as well as being a striking decoration. And if you are planning to buy this type of curtains, read our other guide: How to install Roman blinds on a terrace? Comprehensive guide.