Summer at home boosts outdoor blinds

Over summer 2021, lockdowns and travel restrictions saw many Australian families shifting their holidays locally and celebrating festivities to their homes. There was a bigger focus on outdoor spaces as entertaining at home became the new normal. This resulted in a spike in home improvement spending, particularly with outdoor and backyard updates. The growth in popularity of indoor/outdoor functionality has seen a dramatic change in the design of new houses in recent years, with outdoor spaces being incorporated under the roof of the house, creating an unprecedented demand for external blinds.

ROLLEASE ACMEDA

“People have been spending more time at home, focusing on maximising living area space, realising Zipscreen is the solution that satisfies their needs in creating the perfect outdoor space, whether it be for relaxing, outdoor dining or entertaining,” says Lara Apicella, Marketing Manager, Rollease Acmeda.

“The Zipscreen system blocks out the sun as well as pesky insects, leaving you with a comfort-enhanced outdoor area.”

“To ensure continual improvements to our growing external range of products, we have optimised the functionality of our external universal open brackets to ensure greater installation flexibility.”

“Our new square Open bracket has been introduced for any face or top fix open style installation, to assist with side-channel alignment when producing a Zipscreen system. The new Round Open bracket is now compatible with all wire guide terminals and eliminates the need for space adaptors previously required for spring controlled Veue Wire Guide systems.”

Apicella says assembling a Zipscreen is now easier than ever.

“The Ultra-lock, Inner rail Funnel & Inner rail bottom cap set are all now supplied with self-drilling screws for quick and easy assembly.”

“Our support program also continues to be enhanced as we gather feedback from our customers. We have released a convenient Externals order form for our customers which allows them to easily order parts they require to make Zipscreen, Veue & Extreme Outdoor Shades.”

“We also published an all-in-one eBOM to support our growing range of external solutions. Previously each system had its own dedicated ebom, however with all the shared components across the Zipscreen, Veue & Extreme systems we were able to bring this together into one convenient electronic bill of material. “

Rollease Acmeda is using the growing number of Zipscreen installations to compile customer feedback on how small changes can be made.

“When motorising Zipscreen systems you must drill a hole in the cassette for the in-line connector to exit from, which was being filled with silicon (or left open) and was seen as a sub-standard solution.”

“We introduced an FT cable gromet to our range which provided a quick, easy to install solution.”

“Keeping our clients satisfied and saving them time and money is of the upmost importance to us,” Apicella adds.

BM BLINDS

bm Blinds has seen its wholesale awning sales grow steadily over the past 12-18 months with the rise particularly noticeable in Zipscreens.

“More tradition styles such as Automatic & Convertible awnings are also increasing in popularity however not at the rate as Zipscreens. Fabric such as external sunscreens have been our main sellers regardless of the system,” says Michael Shaw, director bm Blinds.

“External sunscreen fabrics offer heat reduction without making the area that is being covered dark. Traditionally we would close up our homes whenever a hot day was imminent however these days we prefer our homes to be light and bright.”

Shaw says heavy canvas type fabrics still have their place in the market, particularly when a client is looking to minimize the amount of light in the room.

“The increase in popularity of the Zipscreen and wire guide external awnings, often used to enclose outdoor eating areas helps to extend customers dining options.”

“New homes tend to have the alfresco area built in under the main roof making the addition of awnings a must in Australia’s harsh summers.”

OZROLL

Ozroll has introduced its new Chain Guide Slidetrack outdoor blind that is designed for applications suited to wire guide blinds, and also automatic, fixed and pivot arm awnings.

 This blind is able to be manually locked at intermediate points using the chain links, and is available in manual spring-loaded or crank operation, or motorised using 240v or our 12v systems.

Inherently robust with no swagged fittings, chain tensioners are provided on each side for easy adjustment by the owner if required.

“Ozroll prides itself on our commitment to continuous product improvement and also ongoing development and innovation, which has been evident since our pioneering introduction of DC systems back in 2005,” says Jack McDonald, Marketing Manager at Ozroll.

 “The limited access to customers brought about by ongoing and inconsistent border closures has been challenging at times and has resulted in less face to face meetings.”

“The upside of this is that we have managed to consistently maintain our 48 hours turnaround for shutters and 3-5 days for blinds with the majority of businesses across the country reporting an increase in sales of between 20 and 30 percent.”

McDonald said that 2020 certainly had its challenges and 2021 will no doubt provide more of the same.

“The anticipation and hope surrounding the release of a vaccination along with quicker testing procedures should hopefully go a long way to alleviating the sudden and abrupt border closures.”

“For now we will take the positives of a growing market and work around the logistical issues while ensuring that we maintain sufficient stock levels to meet with the demand, something that we have done very well up to this point,” he adds.

BLINDS BY PETER MEYER

An instant outdoor living space is on offer with the release of the “Plaza Viva with Vertitex” system from Blinds by Peter Meyer and Weinor Australia.

“This product pairs our best-selling retractable roof system with retractable blinds around all three open sides,” says Simon Meyer, Managing Director, Blinds by Peter Meyer.

“Both system can be made up to 6000mm wide with projections of up to 5000mm on the Plaza Viva. The Vertitex 2 outdoor roller blinds can come in the world’s smallest outdoor cassette of only 75mm but still spanning a mighty 6000mm thanks to their patented Opti-Flow technology. The 92mm cassette and 112mm cassettes are also available if the drop requires it.”

“The Outdoor Room is so popular right now and some clients can’t extend their budget to the fully waterproof retractable roof solutions. This option gives them a stepping stone price point product that still allows customers to enclose their outdoor living areas with a retractable roof and Outdoor blinds. “

Meyer says the system can be paired with the sustainable outdoor awning fabric Modern Basics Blue. Exclusive to Weinor it is made from 85% recycled PET and used 60% less energy to make the finished fabric as well as approx. 45% less Co2 emissions and 90% less water consumed in it weaving and dying process.

“This fabric can be used on the retractable roof in the Plaza Viva as well as in the Vertitex 2 Side Blinds. It can also be used on the full range of Folding Arm awnings with a massive 328 old PET bottles going into an awning 7000 x 3000mm, imagine the impact on the health of the world if these kind of savings can be done on more Weinor awnings.”

BAMBOO BLINDS AUSTRALIA

Bamboo Blinds Australia (formerly Ashwood Bamboo Blinds) exterior bamboo blinds are manufactured in Australia, made for Australian conditions and come with a five-year warranty.

Denis Keating who heads up the company’s Brisbane office, says their bamboo blinds provide a unique, natural look that creative designers like.

“Naturally, our blinds suit Asian or Balinese style gardens. But the range offers something to suit any exterior or landscaping design,” says Keating.

“From contemporary to period and minimalist to rustic.”

Keating says every aspect of the construction of our exterior bamboo blinds range is carefully considered to make sure they provide long service and smooth operation while looking great for many years including:

● The timber we use for the top and bottom rails is high quality square-checked KD hardwood, preventing the blind from warping and bending.

●The blind fabric is woven with long-lasting synthetic thread, unlike the majority of imported bamboo blinds which are made with cotton thread.

●Our pulleys are fitted with a larger wheel, with a smooth-running action, reducing wear on the cord and making operation quiet and smooth.

“Our blinds are used by designers who are setting trends and want to enhance their work with a unique look and a long-lasting product. We help them solve problems of screening, shading and privacy.”

“Bamboo Blinds Australia offer a truly customised product. For example, blinds can be fitted with tie-downs to prevent movement and can be trimmed to fit around window frames, window sills and other mouldings for example.”

 “We’re always interested in discussing ideas with our clients, and finding solutions for their designs,” says Denis. He adds that the blinds are also available in custom colours so they can match any colour scheme.

SOMFY

Somfy has seen external blind motorisation rates increase dramatically in this segment due to the need for easy access to the rest of the yard.

“Having the ability to enclose your outdoor space with motorised external blinds and essentially create an extension of your home has become extremely popular,” revealed Somfy Oceania’s Head of Marketing, Paul de Salis.

Somfy’s innovative external blind motor, Maestria 50 RTS, provides a flexible solution for the growing external segment. Maestria features a range of functionalities, including obstacle detection and end-limit detection.

The motor can also be linked to a range of RTS automation controls including Connexoon Window RTS and Somfy’s sun and wind sensors.

“Adding Maestria 50 RTS to external screens helps to create an outdoor space that can be used all year-round.”

HUNTER DOUGLAS

Hunter Douglas says its Alpha M Awnings and Stance Fibreglass External Sunscreen have been colour matched to create the superior awning package.

“The Alpha M Awning is Australia’s first & only magnetic retention awning system, delivering 200kg of pull force keeping fabric taut & neat inside channels,” the company said in a release.

“Alpha M has the smarts to self-correct fabric blow outs back into position without a service call. The powerful magnets effortlessly return the Stance Fibreglass Sunscreen fabric into the channel and pulls it tight eliminating the appearance of creases or folds. The patented technology is hidden within the side channels allowing Alpha M to outperform standard zip systems.”

“Alpha M is available exclusively with Stance Fibreglass External Sunscreen which remains tight and beautiful at any interval during operation.” 

Stance fabric is tested for Australian conditions blocking out high levels of solar heat and harmful UV rays.

“Stance Fiberglass features ‘European’ Enduris® Enduris®Enduris Glass Core technology providing exceptional tear resistance and higher tensile strength compared to polyester fabrics, making it the perfect partner for use in any side retention awning system.”

RICKY RICHARDS

For sun control, complete privacy and style, Outlook mesh fabrics are the perfect choice when it comes to blinds and awnings. These mesh fabrics are available in 3 types of openness: 1%, 5%, 12% and a fourth option: Zero, which is a true block out mesh. 

Not only lead and phthalate free, Outlook mesh uses Dow Ecolibrium in its plasticiser formulation, allowing it to be a cleaner option. The many benefits of this include a reduction to greenhouse gas emissions. And with 98% of the plasticisers derived from non-fossil fuel feed stock, that means up to 0.0980 litres of petroleum is saved with every square metre of Outlook mesh purchased which contributes to making this world a better place for our children.

Colours include a selection inspired by Colourbond which means you can match any existing outdoor theme and all Outlook fabrics are supported by a full 10-year warranty.

Docril fabrics bring a fiesta of colour which has been selected to complement any domestic, commercial or architectural project, whilst providing protection from the suns damaging rays. Docril fabrics will reduce solar heat gain by up to 90%, naturally creating a cool and comfortable living environment.

The Docril fabrics are 100% solution dyed acrylic. The solution-dyed process incorporates the colours into the molecules of the fibre, which creates a stronger bond than what would be achieved by dyeing the thread or the fabric itself. The colour of a Docril fabric does not just sit on the surface; it goes all the way through. This means that it has an extremely high resistance to fading and makes the fabric ideal for applications such as external blinds, external awnings, outdoor upholstery and marine projects.

Available in multiple widths: 120cm, 150cm, 200cm and 250cm, Docril fabrics are coated with Dupont Teflon which means that they are extremely easy to clean. The Dupont Teflon coating gives long lasting protection from dust, soil and stains and repels water by beading up liquids allowing it to just roll off the fabric. This collection of fabrics also has exceptional resistance to high temperatures, chemical reaction, corrosion and stress cracking.

THE SHANN GROUP

The Shann Group says its sales teams across the country have reported elevated results for the external category. 

“Our Perth office were servicing higher orders, specifically for Atmosphere external fabric and the Urban Track blind system, over the June to December period,” Melissa Vine from The Shann Group told WFA.

“Queensland and New South Wales also saw the same product surges, coupled with the launch of the new 270cm and 320cm widths across the Atmosphere range generating significant interest and orders and Tempotest acrylic fabric proving popular again this awning season.”

“Victoria and South Australia’s sales teams reported a much busier outdoor category compared to indoor and the uptake in the new Slate in 1% Atmosphere construction has proven a real success for our customers.”

“Overall, the category is more buoyant than initially expected and that has been a very welcome development for our customers and for Shann, certainly after all the uncertainty of the first half of 2020.”

Shann has launched a new awning fabric manufactured with recycled PET.

“Tempotest Starlight blue is a revolutionary fabric manufactured by Parà using 85% recycled PET bottles.  In fact, by recycling 328 plastic bottles, Parà can create 21m² of beautiful fabric.”

“The stunning collection for awnings is created through a sustainable process that allows an energy saving of 60%, 45% less CO₂ emissions, and a reduced water consumption of 90%.”

“The UPF 50+ protection factor guarantees maximum UV protection and a longer product lifecycle and, thanks to Teflon Extreme by Parà innovative finishing, the fabrics are water/oil repellent and resistant to mould and stains.”

The Tempotest Starlight blue colour range is also perfectly curated for commercial and municipal applications and projects where committing to and meeting sustainability standards are a must.

HVG

HVG says that market conditions in the external blind and awning space have been extremely buoyant for the last eight months and look to be continuing on for some time.  

“We have been able to support our customers by assisting them in providing sample requests directly to their customers during these uncertain times of face to face contain,” Caragh Dixon from HVG says.

“The industrial action on the wharves late 2020, and subsequent backlog of FCLs in trans ship ports put further strain on a stretched supply line these effects of this are still being felt into early 2021.”

Visiontex Perform and Visiontex Extreme, are the most recent additions to the market leading Visiontex range for external blinds and awnings.
“Visiontex Perform and Extreme have been individually designed after feedback from this market segment and suppliers and developers of blind systems to fit HVG’s commitment of providing, products for purpose,” Dixon says.

“Visiontex Perform having extra strong yarns is perfect for wide span applications.  Visiontex Extreme with its unique weave construction is ideally suited when extra privacy and weather protection is required.  Both are best suited when railroaded in manufacture, very little movement is experienced in application.”

Perform has an openness of approximately 6% and is available in six popular colours while Extreme has an openness of less than 1% and is available in 8 popular colours.

“All new colours in these ranges are designed to complement the very successful Visiontex Plus and Visiontex Ultra ranges, that have been inspired by the Colorbond colour palette.”

“An expansive range of merchandising options are now available across these new products and through-out our entire range.”