If your home is a bit dark and dim, the perfect way to get the light that you need is not by flicking a switch, it’s by installing a skylight!  However, while skylights are perfect to get light into dark areas, there are still times that you may want to control exactly how much light you get.  The best way to do this is by using skylight blinds.  If you’re a bit confused about where to get started with these, we’ve set up this guide to help you on your way.  For any more info, your local blinds supplier or skylights specialist will be able to help you out with anything you need.

Why Do You Need Special Skylight Blinds?

There are a couple of reasons why you need to use blinds that are specifically made for skylights.  The first is because the blind needs to be able to stand up to the direct sunlight that they are exposed to during the daylight hours. Another reason is that the blind needs to fit the skylight well, sitting closely against it for it to have the effect that you need.

Types of Skylight Blinds

There are a few different blinds that you can use that are suitable for skylights.  These include:

• Pleated honeycomb blinds
  
  
• Solar reflective blinds
  
  
• Block out blinds
  
  
• Venetian blinds

Getting Skylight Blinds that Meet Your Needs

Skylight blinds are available in a range of different styles, materials and colours, so you can choose the configuration that best meets the decor in the rest of your home. For example, you could coordinate the blinds with your window coverings or you could actually “camouflage” the blind so it blends in with the ceiling when it is fully closed.  You’ll also have to make sure that your skylight blind actually fits your skylight properly.  There are a range of standard sizes available but if your skylight is oddly shaped at all, you can get your blind completely custom made to fit.  You’ll find that most skylight blinds give you the choice between manual or electric operation.  Manual operation is reliable but you may prefer the convenience of being able to open and close your skylight blinds at the push of a button.

When choosing skylight blinds, make sure you get ones that are of good quality. Have a look at how they are manufactured, and also check the warranty. High quality skylight blinds will have a good warranty or guarantee period attached to them.