Roller Blinds – Chain or Spring Control?
A Roller Blind is a generic description for a blind that hangs at a window, rolling up and down the window onto tubing (usually metal) at the top of the blind (the roller). It uses either a spring or chain control method for operation.
Not too long ago, Roller blinds were commonly know as Holland Blinds, however there have been so many changes to the types of fabric, the appearance and method of operation, that the term Roller Blind is now probably a better description.
Spring Control
Spring Control systems used to be the only way to operate a roller blind. A spring was inserted into one end of the tubing at the top of the blind, the spring was tensioned, the blind placed into its brackets, and the blind operated by pulling on the blind.
This method was well suited to the cotton based fabrics that were used. To prevent fraying, the cotton fabrics were manufactured with sewn seams down the sides. This came in handy if the blind rolled onto the brackets, due to using uneven tension on the blind when operating it.
Problems with the Spring control Roller Blind systems include the blind sagging without being able to be lifted (due to the spring giving way), the blind flying upwards without warning (due to the spring being over-tensioned) and the blind not stopping exactly where you want it (because the spring stops the blind at predetermined increments).
Springs are more commonly used these days as boosters to chain control operation systems, to take some of the weight load on large blinds thereby assisting with lift of the blind. Spring only systems are still available, although not often used or recommended as the only method of operation.
Chain Control
Chain Control systems have been around since the 1990’s and coincided with the introduction of fabrics made from polyesters or fibreglass. The best method of cutting these fabrics is by a crush-cut method or by lazer, resulting in a flat finish that is not prone to fraying. Installed correctly (& subject to sizing limitations), a combination of chain control and the new fabrics results in roller blinds that roll up evenly, more easily and with fewer problems & more benefits. There is an option of left or right side control and the blind can be stopped in any desired position. No longer is it necessary to repeatedly yank on the blind to encourage it to go all the way up.
Different tubing sizes are available for use with different size blinds. They are most often made from extruded aluminium, of varying sizes & strength. The larger the blind – the heavier the blind – the larger the tubing required. The chain control system fits into the end of the tubing and locks into place by sliding into the internally ribbed extrusion. The blind is operated up and down by pulling the chanin in the appropriate direction.
Please be aware that cheap blinds often have cardboard tubing for the roller at the top of the blind. After a very short period of time (depending on use) the chain control spins within the worn roller and the blind doesn’t work.
Be sure to look for our next blog on measuring hints for your Roller Blinds.
