Roller blinds

The cost of custom blinds variy depending on blind type. Please call us at Drapes and Blindz Direct for a free in-home measure and quote.

The cost of custom blinds variy depending on blind type. Please call us at Drapes and Blindz Direct for a free in-home measure and quote.

There are many window covering options: Block out Roller Blinds, Sun Screen Roller Blinds, Venetians, Verticals, Roman Blinds, Thermacells, Shutters and Curtians.

The best type of blind depends on what you need — light control, privacy, insulation, style, or ease of use. Different blinds excel in different situations, so the “best” option varies from room to room.

Roller blinds are affordable, modern, versatile, and available in sunscreen, light‑filtering, and blockout fabrics.

The best type of blind depends on what you need — light control, privacy, insulation, style, or ease of use. Different blinds excel in different situations, so the “best” option varies from room to room.

Shutters, aluminium or faux‑wood venetians because the are moisture‑resistant, easy to clean, and great for adjustable light control.

Honeycomb (cellular) blinds are the best option for keeping heat out, thanks to their insulated air pocket design. But several other blind types also perform well in hot New Zealand summers.
These blinds trap air inside their cells, creating a thermal barrier that helps:

• Reduce heat entering the home
• Keep rooms cooler during summer
• Improve energy efficiency

They’re especially effective on sun exposed windows and large glass areas.
Sunscreen blinds don’t block all heat, but they:

• Reduce harsh sunlight
• Cut UV rays
• Lower glare
• Keep rooms more comfortable

Great for living areas where you still want daytime visibility.

Honeycomb (cellular) blinds are the best option for keeping heat in, thanks to their insulated air‑pocket design. They’re one of the most effective window coverings for improving warmth and energy efficiency in New Zealand homes.

Their unique cell structure traps air, creating a thermal barrier that helps:

• Reduce heat loss
• Keep rooms warmer in winter
• Lower heating costs

They’re especially effective on older New Zealand homes with draughty or single‑glazed windows.

Yes — roller blinds can help with insulation, but their performance depends on the fabric you choose and how well they fit your window. They’re not the top performer (honeycomb blinds are), but roller blinds still offer solid warmth and energy efficiency when selected correctly.

Yes — blockout blinds are absolutely worth it if you want better light control, improved insulation, more privacy, and a more comfortable home. They’re one of the most popular blind types in New Zealand because they perform well in almost every room.

Blockout Blinds are designed to block light completely.

Sunscreen Blinds are designed to filter light while maintaining daytime visibility.

A combination of both can be used to get the right balance of privacy, light control, and insulation.

Choosing between inside‑mount and outside‑mount blinds affects how your blinds look, how well they block light, and whether they fit your window correctly.

Inside‑mount blinds are installed within the window frame are best for:

• A clean, built‑in, streamlined look
• Showing off your window trim
• Windows with enough frame depth

Outside mount blinds are installed on the wall or window trim, covering the entire window opening.

• Maximum light blocking
• Shallow or uneven window frames
• Hiding imperfect trim or tricky window shapes
• Rooms needing better darkness (bedrooms, nurseries, media rooms)

Measuring your windows correctly is essential for a perfect fit. You can absolutely measure your own windows — just follow these steps carefully. Remember: if self measured blinds don’t fit, any additional costs are your responsibility, so accuracy matters.

Measuring for inside mount blinds
1. Measure the width
Take three measurements:

• Top
• Middle
• Bottom

Record the smallest measurement — this ensures the blind fits inside the frame.

2. Measure the drop (height)
Take three measurements:

• Left
• Middle
• Right

Record the longest measurement — this ensures full coverage.

Check frame depth
Make sure your frame is deep enough for the blind type you want. Roller blinds, Venetians, and honeycombs all have different depth requirements.

Measuring for outside mount blinds
Outside mount blinds sit on the wall or trim, covering the window.

1. Measure the width
Measure the exact width of the window and add 50–100 mm on each side. This improves privacy and reduces light gaps.

2. Measure the drop
Measure from the top of where the blind will sit to the bottom of the window or desired length. Add extra length if you want the blind to sit lower or cover trim.

Check for obstructions
Look for:

• Handles
• Latches
• Air vents
• Tiles
• Curtain rods

These may affect where the blind can be mounted.

Most custom blinds take 1–4 weeks to manufacture, plus a few extra days for delivery and installation.

Most good‑quality blinds last between 7–10 years, depending on the type of blind, how often they’re used, and the conditions in your home. Some styles, especially premium fabrics and motorised systems can last even longer with proper care. Most NZ manufacturers offer 3–5 year warranties on blinds, which reflects expected performance. Many blinds last well beyond their warranty period with proper care.

Keeping your blinds clean helps them last longer and look their best. The right cleaning method depends on the type of blind you have, but most only need simple, regular maintenance. However Drapes and Blindz Direct offers a cleaning service for Roller, venetian and vertical blinds. Contact us on 06 753 9302 for more information.

Yes — motorised blinds are worth it for many homes, especially those with large windows, hard‑to‑reach areas, or a preference for modern convenience. They offer comfort, safety, and smooth operation that manual blinds can’t match.

Yes — existing roller blinds can be motorised, and you don’t always need to replace the entire blind. Modern retrofit motors are designed specifically to upgrade manual blinds into automated ones, making motorisation far more accessible than most customers realise.

Custom‑made blinds offer a better fit, better performance, and a better finish than ready‑made blinds. They’re designed specifically for your windows, your home, and your needs — which is why most homeowners choose custom over off‑the‑shelf options.