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  • Venetian Blinds FAQs

Venetian Blinds FAQs

Made to Measure Venetian Blinds

Get fast, expert answers to frequently asked questions about Venetian blinds from the team at English Blinds, and discover the benefits of custom-made aluminium Venetian blinds before you buy.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between blinds and Venetian blinds?
Blinds is a general term that covers all types and designs of window blinds made from slats, fabric and other materials. Venetian blinds are a specific type of blind that consists of horizontal slats made from aluminium, real wood, or faux wood. Aluminium Venetian blinds generally have narrower slats, 25mm wide, whereas wooden blinds can be made in 25mm, 35mm, and 50mm slats, with 50mm being the most popular.
Why are they called Venetian blinds?
The prevailing theory is they originated in Persia (now Iran) and Venetian traders likely brought them to Venice where they were developed in the 18th century into the modern form of horizontal slat blinds, which we now know as Venetian Blinds. Their popularity grew and spread across Europe.
Do people still use Venetian blinds?
Yes, Venetian blinds are still widely used in the UK. Their timeless design, versatility, and ability to precisely control sunlight, shade and privacy make them a popular choice for both homes and offices. Collections are updated to reflect the latest trends, with modern colour palettes and contemporary finishes. Whilst other types of blinds have gained popularity, Aluminium Venetian blinds remain a timeless option that complements a wide range of interior design styles.
Which Venetian blinds are best?
The best type of Venetian blinds are the ones that best suit your room’s style, décor and individual needs. Aluminium venetian blinds are lightweight and sleek, come in hundreds of colours and finishes, and won't rust, warp or fade in the sun, and they’re suitable for most rooms. Faux wood Venetian blinds are extremely robust, waterproof, cost-effective and ideally suited to moist and humid environments such as the kitchen and bathroom. Real wooden blinds bring a natural elegance, warmth and a touch of luxury to a room's décor. All Venetian blinds are extremely functional and give you complete control over sunlight, shade and privacy, so it’s largely down to personal taste as to which you think are best.
Are they good for kitchens?
Aluminium Venetian blinds are suitable for kitchens that are well-ventilated and don't experience excessive humidity or cooking splashes. They may not always be the best choice for kitchens that are prone to heavy steam or those with windows near sinks or cookers, as the lift cords are not 100% waterproof and can attract grime. Their narrow slats can also be fiddly to clean if they accumulate cooking grease or food splatters.
Can you put them in a bathroom?
Yes, Venetian blinds are suitable for most bathrooms. They’re made from rust-proof aluminium and finished with waterproof paint. Just keep in mind their lift cords and control cords are not 100% waterproof and may become dirty in bathrooms with excessive moisture or splashes. If your bathroom is well-ventilated and doesn’t suffer from extreme humidity or splashing around the window, they’re a good choice.
Can you see through them at night?
No, you cannot see through Venetian blinds at night when they’re fully closed. Their opaque aluminium slats provide complete privacy at night. The only exception is perforated Venetian blinds, which you may be able to see through at night, particularly if there is a light on inside the room.
Do they cost more than other types of blinds?
Aluminium Venetian blinds are one of the most budget-friendly types of blinds. Roller blinds are generally the cheapest option, depending on the type of fabric chosen, with Venetian blinds slightly more expensive. Faux-wood, real-wood Venetians and Roman blinds are generally pricier than roller blinds. Hogh quality made-to-measure Venetian blinds are a great long-term investment, they’re extremely durable and never go out of style.
Are they back in style?
They’ve never really gone out of style. Venetian blinds are a classic and timeless window treatment that are equally well-suited to both traditional and contemporary interiors. Collections are updated with new colours and finishes to reflect the current trends in interior design.
How to take down (remove) Venetian blinds
Venetian blinds are relatively lightweight and easy enough for one person to remove unless they’re extra wide or large. To take them down, first open the slats and fully raise the blind. Next, locate the brackets along the top of the headrail and push each one firmly towards the window. If they’re swivel-type brackets, pull the lever outwards to release it from the headrail. The headrail should then be free to pull down and away from each bracket. Once all brackets are released, carefully support the weight of the blind as you remove it.
Are they easy to clean?
Venetian blinds are generally easy to clean if you dust them regularly. Regularly opening, closing, and tilting the slats to different angles can also help prevent dust buildup. Since their slats are 100% waterproof with a smooth surface, it's easy to wipe them down with a damp cloth.
For more details on how to clean wooden Venetian blinds, check out our articles on how to clean Venetian blinds, how to clean them if they are heavily stained or very grimy, and are they easy to clean?
What makes a blind Venetian?
Venetian blinds are a type of window covering consisting of horizontal slats in 25mm, 35mm and 50mm widths made from aluminium, real wood or faux wood. Their slats are suspended on ladder cords or tapes which can be tilted to precisely control light and privacy.
Why are Venetian blinds so expensive?
The cost of Venetian blinds will depend on the material they're made of. Aluminium Venetian blinds are often the most affordable option, whilst wooden Venetian blinds are more expensive. They can cost more than other blinds, such as roller blinds, due to being more complex to assemble and time-consuming to manufacture.
How much do they cost?
The average price for high-quality made-to-measure Venetian blinds is around £25 for a small window, £59 for a medium-sized window and up to about £155 for an extra-large window.
Do they keep heat in?
Aluminium Venetian blinds do offer a level of insulation at the window which can help to keep heat in, but their thin metal slats mean they’re not as efficient as real wood blinds and faux wood Venetian blinds.
Are they hard to fit?
No, even with little DIY experience, they’re not considered difficult to fit. They come with easy-to-follow instructions, and the process involves marking where the brackets are to be fixed to the wall or window frame, drilling the holes for the brackets, attaching the brackets, and finally locating the blind in the brackets.
Can you see through them?
No, assuming the blind is fully closed and properly installed. They’re a solid construction and aluminium is of course opaque, so they don’t allow anyone to see through them. The only exceptions are if the slats are damaged, tilted open or perforated, or if the blind is not a good fit for the window.
Do they work in bedrooms?
Venetian blinds are a versatile window treatment, perfectly suited for bedrooms. They offer precise control over light and privacy and are available in wide variety of colours and finishes. Whilst they significantly darken a room, they don’t however provide a complete blackout.

What are the Benefits of Aluminium Venetian Blinds?

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