Unlock Style & Functionality: Your Ultimate Guide to Argos Aluminium Venetian Blinds
Dreaming of a home transformation that’s both stylish and practical? Aluminium Venetian blinds from Argos offer a fantastic solution, blending sleek modern aesthetics with incredible light control and privacy. Whether you’re refreshing a living room, adding functionality to a home office, or seeking a durable option for a kitchen or bathroom, these blinds are a popular choice.
This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know, from precise measuring and hassle-free installation to keeping your blinds looking pristine. Get ready to enhance your living space with confidence!
Why Choose Aluminium Venetian Blinds?
Before we dive into the how-to, let’s quickly appreciate why Argos Aluminium Venetian Blinds are such a smart choice:
- Sleek & Modern: Their slim profile and metallic sheen add a contemporary touch to any décor.
- Exceptional Light Control: Easily tilt the slats to precisely manage natural light, from gentle filtering to complete privacy.
- Durable & Long-Lasting: Aluminium is inherently robust, resistant to warping, and ideal for high-humidity areas like kitchens and bathrooms.
- Easy to Clean: Unlike fabric blinds, aluminium slats wipe down effortlessly.
- Budget-Friendly: They often offer a stylish look without breaking the bank.
Getting Started: Measuring is Key!
The most crucial step to a perfect fit is accurate measurement. Take your time and measure twice! Argos blinds typically come with instructions, but here’s a general guide.
You’ll need a metal tape measure for accuracy. Decide whether you want your blind inside the window recess (fitted neatly within the frame) or outside the recess (overlapping the window).
1. Inside the Window Recess (Recess Fit)
This creates a tidy, flush look.
- Width: Measure the exact width of the inside of your window recess at the top, middle, and bottom.
- Height (Drop): Measure the exact height from the top of the recess to the window sill on the left, middle, and right.
- The Golden Rule: Always use the smallest of your width measurements and the smallest of your height measurements. This ensures the blind will fit without snagging.
- Manufacturer’s Deduction: Most Argos Aluminium Venetian Blinds are designed for recess fitting. They will often instruct you to deduct a small amount (e.g., 1cm or 1.5cm) from your width measurement to ensure a perfect fit and prevent scraping. Always refer to the specific product’s instructions for the precise deduction.
2. Outside the Window Recess (Exact Fit)
This option makes windows appear larger and helps block more light.
- Width: Measure the width you want the blind to cover. We recommend adding at least 5-10cm to the width of your window recess on each side (total of 10-20cm extra) to prevent light leakage around the edges.
- Height (Drop): Measure the height from where you want the top of the blind to sit (usually at least 5-10cm above the recess) down to where you want it to finish (either the window sill or below it).
- No Deductions: For outside recess fitting, you provide the exact measurements you want the finished blind to be.
Common Measuring Mistakes to Avoid:
- Using a Fabric Tape Measure: These can stretch and lead to inaccurate readings. Always use a metal tape measure.
- Only Measuring Once: Measure at least three points for both width and height.
- Forgetting to Deduct for Recess Fit: Always check if the manufacturer requires a deduction for recess fitting.
- Not Accounting for Obstacles: Consider handles, vents, or other protrusions that might interfere with the blind’s operation.
Tools You’ll Need for Installation
Before you begin, gather these essential tools:
- Pencil
- Tape Measure
- Spirit Level (for perfectly straight blinds)
- Drill (with appropriate drill bits for your wall type – wood, masonry, plasterboard)
- Screwdriver (manual or electric)
- Safety Goggles (when drilling)
- Step Ladder (if needed)
Step-by-Step Installation Guide for Argos Aluminium Venetian Blinds
While specific instructions may vary slightly by model, the general process for fitting Argos Aluminium Venetian Blinds is straightforward.
Step 1: Mark the Bracket Positions
- Position the Headrail/Brackets: Hold the blind’s headrail (the top part) or the mounting brackets in place where you want to install them.
- Inside Recess: Position them as high and far back into the recess as possible, ensuring the blind won’t hit the window frame or handles.
- Outside Recess: Position them at your desired height, ensuring even overlap on both sides.
- Use Your Spirit Level: Ensure the headrail or brackets are perfectly level. This is crucial for smooth operation.
- Mark Drill Holes: Using a pencil, mark the exact spots where the screw holes for the brackets will go. Most blinds will have two or three brackets depending on their width.
Step 2: Drill Pilot Holes
- Select the Right Drill Bit: Use a drill bit appropriate for your wall material. For masonry, use a masonry bit and wall plugs. For wood, a wood drill bit is fine.
- Drill Carefully: Drill pilot holes at the marked positions. Ensure the holes are deep enough to accommodate the screws and wall plugs (if used).
- Safety First: Always wear safety goggles when drilling. Be aware of any hidden pipes or wires.
Step 3: Attach the Mounting Brackets
- Insert Wall Plugs (if needed): If drilling into masonry or plasterboard, gently tap the appropriate wall plugs into the drilled holes until flush with the wall.
- Secure the Brackets: Place each mounting bracket over the pilot holes (or wall plugs) and screw them firmly into place. Ensure they are tight and stable.
Step 4: Mount the Blind
- Open the Bracket Clips: Most Argos Aluminium Venetian Blinds use a “clip-in” or “snap-in” system. Open the hinged clips or levers on the mounting brackets.
- Insert the Headrail: Carefully lift the blind’s headrail and slot it into the open brackets.
- Secure the Clips: Close the clips or levers on the brackets. You should hear a satisfying click or feel it lock securely into place. Give the blind a gentle tug to ensure it’s firmly mounted.
Step 5: Attach the Operating Wand/Cord
- Wand Attachment: If your blind comes with a tilt wand, simply hook or clip it onto the designated loop on the headrail mechanism.
- Cord Adjustment: If it’s a cord system, ensure the cords hang freely and are untangled. Consider child safety devices supplied with your blind to keep cords out of reach of children and pets. Always install these safety features.
Maintaining Your Argos Aluminium Venetian Blinds
One of the great advantages of aluminium blinds is how easy they are to keep clean. Regular maintenance will ensure they look great and last for years.
1. Regular Cleaning (Dusting)
- Frequency: Aim for weekly or bi-weekly dusting.
- Method:
- Close the slats completely (either tilted up or down) to create a flat surface.
- Use a feather duster, a microfibre cloth, or a soft brush attachment on your vacuum cleaner to gently wipe or vacuum away dust.
- Flip the slats and repeat on the other side.
2. Deep Cleaning (Wiping)
- Frequency: As needed, or every few months for a thorough clean.
- Method:
- Close the slats completely.
- Mix a small amount of mild dish soap with warm water.
- Dampen a soft cloth (not soaking wet) with the solution.
- Gently wipe each slat from one end to the other. Pay attention to greasy spots or stubborn grime.
- Avoid harsh abrasive cleaners as they can damage the finish.
- Wipe with a clean, damp cloth to remove any soap residue.
- Dry thoroughly with a dry cloth to prevent water spots.
- Flip the slats and repeat on the other side.
- Allow the blinds to air dry completely before tilting or raising them.
Tips for Longevity & Enjoyment:
- Operate Gently: Always tilt the slats before raising or lowering the blind to prevent damage to the mechanism.
- Don’t Force It: If the blind feels stiff, never force the mechanism. Check for any obstructions or tangles.
- Child Safety: If your blinds have cords, always use the provided child safety clips or cleats to keep cords securely out of reach. This is paramount.
- Ventilation: In high-humidity areas, ensure good ventilation to prevent moisture build-up, even though aluminium is resistant to rust.
Common Installation & Maintenance Mistakes to Avoid
- Rushing the Measuring: This is the biggest mistake. An incorrectly measured blind will never look right or operate smoothly.
- Not Using a Spirit Level: A crooked blind will be noticeable and annoying. Always level your brackets.
- Using the Wrong Drill Bit: This can damage your walls or make drilling unnecessarily difficult.
- Over-Tightening Screws: Can strip the screw heads or crack your wall material. Tighten firmly but not excessively.
- Neglecting Regular Cleaning: Dust build-up can make the blinds look dull and eventually impact their operation.
- Using Harsh Chemicals: Never use abrasive cleaners, bleach, or strong solvents on your aluminium blinds, as they can discolour or damage the finish.
- Ignoring Child Safety Features: Always install and use the provided child safety devices.
Conclusion
Installing and maintaining Argos Aluminium Venetian Blinds is a rewarding DIY project that can significantly elevate the look and feel of your home. By following these detailed steps, paying close attention to measurements, and committing to regular, gentle cleaning, you’ll ensure your blinds not only look fantastic but also provide years of durable, functional beauty. Enjoy your stylish new view!
FAQ
Q. How do I measure my window for Argos aluminium Venetian blinds?
A. Argos provides detailed measuring guides, typically available on the product page or their website. For an ‘inside recess’ fit, measure the width and drop of your window opening in three places (top, middle, bottom for width; left, middle, right for drop) and use the smallest measurement. For an ‘outside recess’ fit, measure the desired width and drop, ensuring you add at least 5-10cm on each side and above/below the window frame to minimise light leakage. Always refer to the specific instructions provided by Argos for the exact product.
Q. Are Argos aluminium Venetian blinds easy to install?
A. Yes, Argos aluminium Venetian blinds are designed for straightforward DIY installation. They typically come with all necessary fittings, including brackets and screws, along with clear step-by-step instructions. Installation usually involves fixing the brackets to the wall or ceiling above your window recess, then clipping the headrail of the blind into place. A basic toolkit, including a drill, screwdriver, and tape measure, is generally all that’s required.
Q. What are the benefits of choosing aluminium Venetian blinds from Argos?
A. Aluminium Venetian blinds offer several key advantages. They are highly durable, moisture-resistant (making them ideal for kitchens, bathrooms, and high-humidity areas), and very easy to clean. They provide excellent light control and privacy due to their adjustable slats, allowing you to precisely regulate incoming light. Furthermore, they are a cost-effective and stylish window dressing solution, often available in a range of contemporary colours to suit various interior designs.
Q. How do I clean my Argos aluminium Venetian blinds?
A. Cleaning aluminium Venetian blinds is relatively simple. For routine dusting, you can use a duster, a microfibre cloth, or a specialist blind cleaning tool, ensuring you wipe each slat individually. For a deeper clean, you can wipe the slats with a damp cloth lightly dampened with water or a mild detergent solution for stubborn marks. Alternatively, a vacuum cleaner with a soft brush attachment on a low setting can be effective. Always ensure the slats are completely dry before raising the blind.
Q. Do Argos aluminium Venetian blinds offer good light control and privacy?
A. Yes, aluminium Venetian blinds are highly effective for both light control and privacy. Their design, featuring adjustable horizontal slats, allows for precise manipulation of light entering a room. You can tilt the slats to various angles – from fully open for maximum light, partially tilted for diffused light, to fully closed for privacy and significant light block. This versatility makes them an excellent choice for any room where managing light and privacy is important.
Q. Are these blinds child-safe?
A. Argos, like all reputable retailers, adheres to current safety standards for window blinds. Modern Venetian blinds often incorporate child-safe features such as cord tidies, cleats to secure cords out of reach, or breakaway safety devices for cords and chains. Always ensure that any operating cords or chains are secured safely and out of reach of young children and pets according to the manufacturer’s instructions to prevent potential entanglement hazards. It’s always advisable to check the specific product description for details on child safety compliance.
Q. Can I trim Argos aluminium Venetian blinds to fit my window?
A. While some types of blinds can be trimmed, it’s generally not recommended to trim aluminium Venetian blinds yourself, especially the width, as it requires specialised tools and can easily damage the slats or the operating mechanism. Most Argos aluminium Venetian blinds are available in a range of standard sizes designed to fit common window dimensions. If your window requires a custom size, it’s usually better to consider made-to-measure options from specialist blind retailers rather than attempting to alter a ready-made blind. Always check the specific product information as some ranges might offer a slight width adjustment feature, but this is rare for aluminium.