Pleated blinds have evolved over the years from the more traditional venetian blind. The main differences between pleated blinds and the venetian counterparts are that the pleated blinds use a folded fabric instead of the horizontal slats found in venetian blinds. This folded fabric allows for a more subtle lighting and very popular.
Although pleated blinds are better known for their practicality and attractiveness they also serve a more functional purpose. Like all blinds the practical purpose is to control the amount of light and heat entering a room. Pleated blinds are no exception. Their operation is via a disguised chord system though which the blinds can be opened or closed as required. This allows the requisite amount of light to enter into the room.
Pleated blinds can be made from a number of materials depending on the level of lighting required in the room. The translucency of the blind controls the amount of light that enters the room and so pleated blinds are usually constructed of some kind of opaque material that will allow a degree of residual light into a room even if the blind is completely closed. The unique design of pleated blinds allows them to be completely folded up in a similar way to curtains when they are not needed, so the window can receive all the light. Pleated blinds are not designed for total darkness but to allow a measure of light into a room. If a total block of light is needed then pleated blinds can be combined with blackout blinds underneath to provide the total block on light.
A common application of pleated blinds are conservatories as the combination of subtle lighting and privacy works well. Indeed any room where this combination of requirements is present make good candidates for pleated blinds as the preferred window treatment.
A recent addition to the blind space are the double pleated blinds. These types of blind work best at providing a measure of insulation and work particularly well with large windows as the fabric is stiff and stable.
Pleated blinds are available in many shades and colours and can be created in a wide range of designs and styles to fit any decor, casual as well as formal. Pleated window blinds are usually very subtle and understated in their appearance. They compliment the furnishings and add a touch of elegance to any room.