Are Roman Blinds Blackout?

Roman blinds are one of the most popular types of blinds we have available, thanks to our diverse range of fabrics, colours and styles on offer. Roman blinds, with their distinctive design, bring texture and warmth to any home. Made from fabric panels, they neatly fold up when raised and lie flat when lowered, however, one common question that we get asked time and time again is whether Roman blinds are blackout. Although there are definitely factors that make Roman blinds better at blocking light compared to more traditional blinds like wooden blinds or venetian blinds, there are several factors such as the fabric type and colour that can make one Roman blind better at blocking out light compared to another.

Do Roman blinds let lots of light in?

Roman blinds are generally regarded as premium window treatments, with their high quality and thick fabrics effectively blocking out more light compared to other options like unlined roller blinds or slatted blinds. Roman blinds are more often than not lined with additional fabric, so even when made from regular fabrics, Roman blinds provide substantial light control when fully closed. In short, it depends on the thickness and lining of the blind as to how much light is let in, although many people find the level of darkness they create to be satisfactory for their desired level of light control.

Which types of Roman blinds are blackout?

Roman blinds can be blackout depending on the fabric and lining choice, but in general, they are made from sheer to light-filtering fabrics which are then lined to create extra thickness and offer blackout abilities. The level of light control provided by Roman blinds varies depending on the selected fabric, so here are the main fabric options and their light-filtering characteristics that we have on offer at Unbeatable Blinds:

Sheer fabric Roman blinds

Blackout capabilities: None

With Roman blinds made from sheer fabrics, plenty of natural light can filter through, creating a gentle and tranquil atmosphere in the room. Linen and other sheer fabrics are excellent choices for spaces where privacy is needed while still enjoying the benefits of natural light.

Light-filtering fabric Roman blinds

Blackout capabilities: None / minimal

Light-filtering Roman blinds, such as luxury woven fabric blinds with a light filtering lining strike a balance between privacy and illumination. These fabrics soften incoming light, reducing glare and providing a cosy environment. Roman blinds made from luxurious woven fabrics effectively strike a balance between privacy and light control, providing a cosy ambiance in your home. These fabrics filter the incoming light and reduce glare, but do not completely block out light.

Room darkening Roman blinds

Blackout capabilities: Partial

For improved control over the incoming light in your room, consider a Roman blind made from room-darkening fabrics such as faux silk, suede or chenille. These fabrics are specifically designed to reduce the intensity of light, ensuring privacy while still allowing some light to enter.

Blackout Roman blinds

Blackout capabilities: Blackout

If you want to block out the most light possible, choose a Roman blind made from a blackout fabric and lining, such as faux suede or plain weave. We ensure our blackout Roman blinds are lined with an extra layer of fabric, which has been designed to prevent light from passing through, making them a great choice for bedrooms or any other space where you need total darkness.

How installation & fit impacts Roman blinds blackout capabilities

The installation and fit of Roman blinds play an important role in their ability to block out light effectively. Here’s how proper installation and fit can contribute to creating a blackout effect:

Snug fit

Ensuring that Roman blinds fit snugly around the window frame or recess helps minimise the gaps between the blinds and the surrounding area. These gaps are common entry points for light, so reducing them can significantly improve light-blocking capabilities.

Inside mount

Choosing an inside mount installation, where the blinds are fitted inside the window frame or recess, can help create a tighter seal and minimise light leakage compared to outside mount installations. Inside-mounted blinds sit closer to the window, reducing the chance of light seeping in around the edges.

Proper measurements

Taking accurate measurements of the window opening before installing Roman blinds is essential for achieving a precise fit. Blinds that are too small leave gaps around the edges, and blinds that are too big may not lower fully, both of which compromise their ability to block out light effectively. You can follow our measuring guide for blinds to ensure you get the perfect fit!

How to stop light coming through sides of Roman blinds

Choosing the right fabric is one essential step for a truly blackout Roman blind, but sometimes light can sneak in through the sides. Here are some practical tips to prevent light from entering through the sides of your blinds:

Use velcro or magnets

To prevent light from entering the sides of the blinds, consider adding Velcro strips or magnetic tape to the sides of the blinds and the window frame. This snug fit will minimise the possibility of light peeking through.

Mount your Roman blinds outside of the window recess

You could consider installing your Roman blinds as an outside mount rather than an inside mount. This ensures the blinds overlap the window frame, reducing light gaps on the sides, but remember to order your blinds bigger than if you were to order for a window recess.

At Unbeatable Blinds, we know that choosing the right Roman blinds can make a big difference in your home’s light control. While some Roman blinds may not be inherently blackout, there are a few things you can do to improve their ability to block out light. Consider the fabric of your blinds; light filtering fabrics will let in more light, while blackout fabrics will block out most light. Also, consider the size of your blinds, Roman blinds that are too small will not be able to cover your windows completely, allowing light to leak in. Adding a blackout lining to your blinds will help to block out even more light for an optimal blackout effect.

If you want to find out more about our range of Blackout Roman Blinds, you can get in touch with customer support on 0333 321 4050.