Choosing the Right Exterior Blinds for Your Space

Exterior blinds can make any outdoor space more inviting and relaxing, and will also protect your patio furniture, grill, and other such pieces from exposure to harsh sunlight, wind, rain, snow, and bitter cold. When you shop for exterior blinds, you might actually be surprised by the many choices you have, and may not understand the differences in their styles and materials. Consider a few of those choices and their different features, as well as some simple pros and cons to consider, so you can find the perfect selection for any home exterior space.

Alfresco

The term alfresco refers to outdoor dining, and alfresco blinds may be made specifically to make an outdoor eating area more comfortable. These will usually be made of a thicker, denser material that blocks the sun's rays and heat, keeping your eating space cooler; this is a good choice for when your alfresco area includes a grill or other cooking device that already creates lots of uncomfortable heat! The downside of this type of blind is that you may want some sunlight while eating and may find that a smaller dining area gets a bit stuffy when the blinds are closed, so take that into consideration when deciding on your new blinds.

Sun block blinds

Sun block blinds are just as the name implies; they offer complete and total darkness, blocking the majority of the sun's rays and light. This can be good in very sunny areas and especially for those with skin sensitivities or who get migraines, as this might allow them to also enjoy the outdoor space without their conditions being triggered or aggravated. Sun block blinds can also be good if you have wood patio furniture or plants outside, as the sun's rays can fade and damage that wood or cause plants to wither.

Screens

Screens can be a good choice for blinds if you prefer sunlight and air circulation even when the blinds are closed. Note the mesh size for these screens, not just the colour, as a larger mesh means more light and air that pass through the blinds, no matter their overall colour. A smaller mesh is better for keeping out flies and other bugs, a consideration if you often sit outside at night, when mosquitoes are most active. The smaller mesh will also block out dust and pollen, so note this if anyone in the family has allergies or other sensitivities, or if you live in an area that is very dry and dusty.