Glass blackout blinds, the alternative to roller shutters and classic blinds

Glass blackout blinds are a modern, elegant and versatile solution for light control, privacy and comfort in the home or office.

blackout blinds

Installed in minutes, without dirt and with a neat aesthetic result, they are ideal for those looking for a functional alternative to roller shutters, traditional curtains or Venetian blinds.

Consider the budget, the quality of the materials (pay particular attention to the durability of the adhesive) and the coherence of the style with the environment: by adopting these measures, you will obtain balanced, pleasant and well-protected environments from the sun's rays.

But let's take a step back and before describing glass blackout blinds in depth, let's recap what the most common alternatives are today for blacking out home and even work environments.

If you are about to choose a method for blacking out rooms in your home, you will be faced with a multitude of choices, each of which has its own strengths and disadvantages.

Let's see which ones:

  • Roller shutters: sturdy, offering excellent thermal and acoustic insulation, but requiring masonry work or boxes and often less attractive.
  • Roman blinds, pleated blinds, roller blinds: elegant and functional, but require supporting structures or holes for installation.
  • Internal or external Venetian blinds: internal blinds modulate light well, but let heat through; external blinds block the sun's rays first, but involve more complex work.
  • Traditional curtains (drapes): attractive to look at, but they take up space and often do not provide thermal insulation.
  • Blackout films: excellent UV protection, easy to install and remove, but on the other hand, you cannot vary the brightness according to your needs and requirements.


As you can see, there is plenty of choice, but in this article I want to focus on another valid alternative, namely Eclypser blackout blinds, a unique product in the world of glass blackout blinds, which can be installed using different techniques.

Blackout blinds

Blackout Blinds for interiors are practical and elegant solutions for regulating light and ensuring privacy. Here are some common options:

  1. Blackout roller blinds: Easy to install, ideal for glass windows. They can be used in the home, office or car, and are also available in portable or non-perforated versions.
  2. Filter blinds: These offer protection from heat and light, often in durable fabrics, suitable for indoor or outdoor use.
  3. Micro-perforated curtains: These use a special fabric that provides sun protection without compromising visibility from the inside.
  4. Economical and easy-to-install curtains: Very practical, often machine washable and available in different designs.

These solutions offer comfort and functionality for any type of environment.

At this point, you will be curious to know the main features that could sway you towards choosing this type of blind.

Glass blackout blinds: main features

1. Direct positioning on the glass
They are mounted on the door or double glazing, without drilling holes in walls or fixtures.

2. Total blackout
The pleated or blackout versions block up to 100% of the light, ensuring privacy and comfort.

3. Format and operation
Suitable for standard windows, French windows, skylights and glass surfaces; smooth movement thanks to side guides and cordless mechanisms.

4. Highly customisable aesthetics
Wide choice of fabrics, colours and finishes to blend in perfectly with the style of the room.

Pros and cons of blackout blinds

Advantages

  • Quick and clean installation: assembly in a few minutes, without dust or debris
  • No holes in window frames or walls: ideal for rented or listed properties.
  • Energy efficiency: they protect against light and heat, improving comfort and reducing the use of air conditioning.
  • Versatile use: perfect for homes, offices, hotels and kitchens.
  • Aesthetic compatibility: modern fabrics, including fireproof ones, maintaining a refined design.
  •  Possible access to the “ecobonus”: some blackout solutions are eligible for tax relief.

Disadvantages

  • Higher cost than basic solutions such as roller shutters or inexpensive roller blinds.
  • Durability of adhesive parts to be monitored, especially with temperature changes or aggressive cleaning.
  • More delicate cleaning: care must be taken not to damage adhesives or mechanisms.
  • Replacement of the system: difficult if the adhesive tape wears out or loses its adhesiveness after many years.

You should now have all the information you need to make an informed choice, but I would also like to give you some advice from an expert interior designer to help you get the most out of this type of blind.

- Customised sizing: millimetre precision to prevent light leaks. If you want a blackout blind, you want it to really block out the light and not let any through, especially along the frame, right? Sizing is therefore essential to achieve maximum blackout power, which is why you need skilled technicians and why it may not be the most suitable solution for DIY.
- Fabric material: for delicate environments (e.g. kitchens), opt for polyester, fibreglass or fireproof cotton.
- Maintenance: clean with soft cloths or slightly damp sponges. Avoid aggressive products, as this will significantly prolong the life of your curtains.
- Colour variations: dark colours improve blackout properties, while light colours reflect light; choose according to exposure.
- Consider the environment: in south/west-facing rooms, they are effective in protecting against heat, while in north-facing rooms, lighter versions may be preferable.

When to choose blackout blinds

  • Rental properties or properties subject to restrictions: they avoid invasive work on walls and fixtures.
  • Large or continuous glass surfaces: traditional solutions are impractical.
  • Need for quick installation: perfect for quickly renovating a room.
  • Seeking comfort and refined design: they combine aesthetics and functionality.

Essential installation steps


An “Eclypser” model is installed as follows:

  1. Thorough cleaning of the glass: essential for perfect adhesion.
  2. Apply adhesive tape: along the vertical sides, avoiding bubbles and aligning the guides.
  3. Fix the guides: remove the protective film and adhere precisely.
  4. Insert the fabric package: position it in the centre and insert the fittings.
  5. Place magnets at the top and bottom: these ensure a secure hold and total blackout.
  6. Final check: test the sliding opening and closing mechanism, correct any errors.


And finally, here is a video that sums up better than a thousand words how to install an Eclypser blackout blind: