Thinking about giving your home a fresh look and boosting privacy? You might be wondering, "Can you hang blinds outside window frame?" It's a valid question, and maybe a little unconventional. We're here to tell you that it is absolutely possible, and many people achieve it!
This guide breaks down everything you need to consider:
● Why you might (or might not) want exterior blinds.
● The BEST types of blinds for outdoor mounting.
● Step-by-step installation: making it a breeze.
● Avoiding common pitfalls and ensuring long-lasting results.
● Maintaining your outside-mounted blinds.
Looking for smart blinds that can handle the outdoors and are also simple to use, consider checking out what Blindsmagic has to offer. We specialize in creating smart blinds built with eco-friendly materials.
Why Go Against the Grain? Exterior Blinds Explained
Hanging blinds outside your window frame isn't the typical approach. Most people install blinds inside. But "typical" isn't always best for everyone. There are some compelling reasons why you might choose the outside route.
The Perks: Sun-Blocking Superpowers & More
● Superior Light Control: Exterior blinds block sunlight before it even hits your window glass. This is HUGE for keeping your home cool. Think of it as a first line of defense against heat.
● Energy Savings: Less heat means less work for your AC. Lower energy bills? Yes, please! This is a win.
● Furniture & Floor Protection: Direct sunlight can fade your prized possessions over time. Exterior blinds act like a shield.
● Added Privacy: Depending on the type of blinds you choose, you can get serious privacy, even with the windows open.
● Unique Curb Appeal: Let's be honest, exterior blinds can give your home a distinctive, stylish look.
The Potential Downsides
It's not all sunshine and roses, though. There are a few potential drawbacks:
● Exposure to the Elements: Rain, wind, snow, intense sun – your blinds will face it all. You NEED durable materials.
● More Involved Installation: Mounting on the exterior often means working with brick, siding, or other tough materials.
● Maintenance: Outdoor blinds will likely need more cleaning and upkeep than indoor ones.
● Possible obstruction: Depending on the build of your house, and surrounding features (e.g., a porch), outside blinds could potentially obstruct.
Is It Right For You? A Quick Quiz
Ask yourself these questions:
1. Is intense heat a major problem in your home?
2. Are you willing to invest in durable, weather-resistant blinds?
3. Are you comfortable with a slightly more complex installation?
4. Do you value a unique aesthetic for your home's exterior?
If you answered "yes" to most of these, exterior blinds might be a great fit.
Blinds Magic offers GreenGuard-certified smart blinds. Our products are designed to resist harsh weather, while also being eco friendly!
The BEST Blinds for Braving the Elements
So, you're intrigued by the idea of outside blinds. Great. But you can't just slap any old blinds out there. You need the right kind. Durability is key, and some materials are simply better suited for the job.
Top Contenders: Materials That Can Handle It
● Aluminum: Lightweight, rust-proof, and relatively affordable. Aluminum blinds come in various colors and slat sizes. They're a solid, practical choice.
● Faux Wood (PVC): These look like wood, but they're made of a synthetic material. PVC is moisture-resistant, won't warp, and is easy to clean. Great for humid climates.
● Exterior Solar Shades: These aren't technically "blinds," but they serve a similar purpose. Made from a mesh-like fabric, solar shades block UV rays and heat while still allowing some light and visibility.
● Bahama Shutters: These are hinged at the top and prop open, providing shade and airflow. They give a distinctive, tropical vibe. Very stylish!
● Rolling Shutters: For maximum security and storm protection, rolling shutters are the top dog. They're typically made of metal and completely cover the window when closed.
What to AVOID
● Real Wood: Unless it's specifically treated for extensive outdoor use (and even then, it requires a LOT of maintenance), wood is prone to warping, cracking, and rotting.
● Thin Vinyl: Cheap vinyl blinds will likely become brittle and crack under the sun's harsh rays. It's just not worth the hassle.
● Fabric Blinds (without weatherproofing): Most fabric blinds are designed for indoor use only. They'll fade, mildew, and potentially tear.
Pay close attention to the hardware, too. Look for stainless steel or other rust-resistant materials for all screws, brackets, and operating mechanisms.
Choosing the Right Style
It's not just about the material. Consider how you want the blinds to function:
● Vertical Blinds: Good for sliding doors or large windows. They offer excellent light control when rotated.
● Horizontal (Venetian) Blinds: The classic choice. They provide adjustable light and privacy.
● Roller Shades: Simple and sleek. They roll up and down, offering varying degrees of light blockage.
|
Material |
Durability |
Price Range |
Maintenance |
Aesthetics |
Best For... |
|
Aluminum |
High |
Low-Mid |
Low |
Clean, modern, various colors |
Budget-conscious, all-around performance |
|
Faux Wood (PVC) |
High |
Mid |
Low |
Wood-like appearance, various colors/textures |
Humid climates, easy cleaning |
|
Solar Shades |
Mid-High |
Mid-High |
Low |
Modern, sleek, allows some view |
UV protection, heat reduction, maintaining a view |
|
Bahama Shutters |
High |
High |
Mid-High |
Tropical, distinctive, architectural |
Style statement, airflow, shade |
|
Rolling Shutters |
Very High |
High |
Low |
Utilitarian, secure |
Maximum security, storm protection |
|
Real Wood (Exterior Grade) |
Medium-High |
High |
High |
Natural look, warm |
Requires a lot of weatherproofing, dry climate. |
Blinds Magic offers many of the mentioned options, all made with high-quality materials and backed by certifications. Our smart features make controlling light and privacy easier, no matter the weather!
Step-by-Step Installation: Making it a Breeze
So, you've chosen your blinds. Now for the fun part – installation. Don't worry; it's totally doable with the right tools and a little patience. This guide assumes you're mounting to a standard exterior wall (brick, siding, or stucco).
What You'll Need:
● Your new exterior blinds (duh!)
● Measuring tape
● Pencil
● Level
● Power drill with appropriate drill bits (masonry bit for brick/concrete)
● Screws (appropriate for your wall type and the blind's mounting brackets)
● Screwdriver (or drill with screwdriver bit)
● Safety glasses
● Ladder (if needed)
● A friend (optional, but helpful!)
The Steps
1. Measure Twice, Drill Once: This is crucial. Measure the width of your window including the frame, and then add a few extra inches on each side for optimal coverage. Mark the desired location of your mounting brackets.
2. Position and Level: Hold the first bracket against the wall at your marked location. Use a level to ensure it's perfectly straight. Mark the screw holes with a pencil.
3. Drill Pilot Holes: If you're drilling into brick, concrete, or hard siding, you'll need pilot holes. Use a drill bit slightly smaller than your screw diameter.
4. Attach the Brackets: Secure the first bracket with screws. Repeat steps 2 and 3 for the remaining brackets.
5. Mount the Blinds: Carefully attach the blinds to the mounting brackets. This process varies slightly depending on the blind type, but it's usually a matter of snapping or sliding them into place.
6. Test It Out: Operate the blinds to make sure they open, close, and tilt smoothly. Make any necessary adjustments.
Avoiding Common Pitfalls: Long-Lasting Results
Even the best blinds won't last if they're improperly installed or neglected. Here's how to avoid common mistakes and keep your exterior blinds looking and functioning great for years:
● The Wrong Material: We can't stress this enough. Choose a material specifically designed for outdoor use. Don't skimp.
● Improper Mounting: Loose screws or misaligned brackets can lead to damage, especially in windy conditions. Double-check everything.
● Ignoring the Weather: If a major storm is approaching, consider closing and securing your blinds (especially rolling shutters or Bahama shutters).
● Lack of Cleaning: Dirt, grime, and mildew can build up over time. Clean your blinds regularly with a mild soap and water solution. Check the manufacturer's instructions for specific cleaning recommendations.
● Forgetting Lubrication: Moving parts (like hinges and tilting mechanisms) need occasional lubrication. Use a silicone-based lubricant to keep things running smoothly.
● Incorrect screw length. Be sure to get screws that are the correct length. Too short and it won't hold properly. Too long and it may hit something important behind.
Before you start, take a "before" picture of your window area. This can be surprisingly helpful if you need to troubleshoot later.
Blinds Magic's smart blinds can be programmed to automatically adjust based on the time of day or weather conditions, reducing wear and tear. Plus, our app provides maintenance reminders.
Maintaining Your Outside-Mounted Blinds: Keep 'Em Shining
You've invested in exterior blinds, and you want them to last. Regular maintenance is key to keeping them looking their best and functioning properly.
The Cleaning Routine: Simple, But Essential
● Frequency: How often you clean depends on your environment. In dusty or coastal areas, you might need to clean monthly. In other areas, every few months might be sufficient.
● The Method:
1. Brush Off Loose Debris: Use a soft-bristled brush or a vacuum with a brush attachment to remove dust, dirt, and cobwebs.
2. Wash with Mild Soap and Water: Mix a small amount of mild dish soap with warm water. Use a sponge or soft cloth to gently wipe down the blinds.
3. Rinse Thoroughly: Use a hose with a gentle spray nozzle to rinse away all soap residue.
4. Dry Completely: Allow the blinds to air dry completely before closing them. This prevents mildew growth.
Beyond Cleaning: Other Maintenance Tasks
● Lubricate Moving Parts: As mentioned earlier, hinges, tilting mechanisms, and any other moving parts need lubrication. Use a silicone-based spray lubricant. Avoid oil-based lubricants, which can attract dirt and grime.
● Inspect for Damage: Regularly check for any signs of wear and tear, such as loose screws, cracked slats, or frayed cords. Address any issues promptly to prevent further damage.
● Check for Pests: Insects sometimes like to nest in blinds. If you notice any signs of infestation, take appropriate action.
● Winterize (if necessary): If you live in an area with harsh winters, consider taking extra steps to protect your blinds. This might involve removing them and storing them indoors, or covering them with a protective tarp.
Keep a small cleaning kit specifically for your exterior blinds. This makes it easier to do quick touch-ups and prevents you from having to hunt down supplies every time.
Exterior Blinds Maintenance Checklist
Use this checklist to keep your outside-mounted blinds in tip-top shape:
Regularly (Monthly or as Needed):
● [ ] Brush off loose dirt, dust, and cobwebs.
● [ ] Wash with mild soap and water.
● [ ] Rinse thoroughly.
● [ ] Dry completely before closing.
● [ ] Check for any blockage.
Periodically (Every 3-6 Months):
● [ ] Lubricate moving parts (hinges, tilting mechanisms) with silicone spray.
● [ ] Inspect for damage (loose screws, cracks, fraying).
● [ ] Check for signs of pests.
Annually (or as Needed):
● [ ] Consider winterizing (if applicable in your climate).
● [ ] Tighten any loose hardware.
● [ ] Do a deep clean.
This checklist helps ensure readers don't miss any crucial maintenance steps. It presents the information in a clear, actionable format.
Blinds Magic: Smart Solutions for Outside the Box
So, can you hang blinds outside the window frame? Absolutely! It's a fantastic way to control light, boost privacy, and even add a unique touch to your home's exterior. Just remember to choose the right materials and follow proper installation and maintenance.
Key Takeaways
● Exterior blinds offer superior light and heat control.
● Durable materials like aluminum and faux wood are best.
● Proper installation and regular cleaning are crucial.
● Consider your climate and specific needs.
Blinds Magic offers a range of smart, eco-friendly blinds perfect for outdoor mounting. Our blinds are made with materials designed for harsh conditions, and our app can help you schedule for different seasons, making maintenance a breeze. Get the perfect blend of style, function, and convenience.
