Are outdoor blinds effective in keeping out rain? This is a common question for homeowners in Singapore, where semi-outdoor living spaces like balconies are common features in apartments and condominiums.
Today, there are balcony blinds that can actually protect these spaces from rain during stormy weather. Ziptrak® Outdoor Blinds in particular are made for the toughest weather conditions. Their innovative and durable design render them capable of standing up to even the worst thunderstorms.
This makes them an effective solution for homeowners who want to retain the use of their semi-outdoor spaces during the rainy season. These blinds can also help prevent damage to any furniture in those areas, among other benefits.
Ziptrak® Outdoor Blinds’ patented side spline
Managing rain is easier than ever with Ziptrak®. These blinds offer a variety of features that make them superior to traditional options.
For example, Ziptrak® Outdoor Blinds are track-guided blinds, which means the fabric is secured to the sides, and does not flap about in the wind. Ziptrak® Outdoor Blinds feature a unique and patented side spline system, which keeps the fabric securely within its track, even in wind speeds of up to
139 km/h.
This feature is found in both the motorised and manual versions of these blinds, which allows homeowners the same benefit, regardless of which type they choose!
Special fabric options for outdoor blinds to keep out rain
Ziptrak® also offers a range of heavy-duty fabric options for rain protection – some options are non-porous and are capable of blocking out as much as 100% of water. Here are some top selections for rain and wind protection.
1. RainOut® Fabric
RainOut® fabric is specifically engineered for superior rain protection. The fabric is crafted out of fully waterproof materials and can keep a balcony dry even during intense storms.
Given that this fabric is non-porous, it remains one of the top options for homeowners. Those who want to also use the blinds for light control or privacy can choose between RainOut® Frosted and RainOut® Blackout RainOut® Frosted allows light to pass through, with an effect that’s similar to frosted glass. RainOut® Blackout blocks out all light for complete privacy, and is perfect for those looking to create a home-theatre feel, or sleep in during the day.
2. Ziptrak® 1% Polyweave
This porous fabric remains the uncontested choice for Singaporeans choosing balcony blinds. It is consistently the go-to option for buyers, thanks to its flexibility.
1% Polyweave fabric takes its name from its blend of polyester and synthetic fibres. The result is a fabric offering the perfect balance between opacity and translucency.
The fabric is also capable of providing good rain protection, which many homeowners appreciate. It may not keep out 100% of rain but it holds up well against heavy showers, save for the most extreme thunderstorms!
This gives the 1% Polyweave fabric a practicality that buyers appreciate, since it offers just the right degree of visibility and rain protection.
3. ClearView™ PVC
Some homeowners want an entirely unobstructed view while keeping the elements at bay. When this is the goal, the ClearView™ PVC is recommended.
This selection is made from durable marine-grade PVC, which gives it complete resistance to the rain while offering superior visibility. It is also UV-resistant, and comes in clear and tinted options.
Like the RainOut® fabric option, ClearView™ PVC is non-porous. Therefore, it is another popular choice for homeowners who want to protect their balconies from rain during stormy conditions.
Its clarity also makes it ideal for those who prefer to let in as much light as possible, making it especially suitable for balconies or patios where natural light is preferred.
Benefits beyond rain protection
Ziptrak® products also go beyond being mere outdoor blinds to stop rain. These same blinds even help with temperature management.
Ziptrak® Outdoor Blinds can be set up to help manage heat entering a semi-outdoor space. The fabric options can do a lot to filter or block solar heat gain and harmful UV rays, in particular. While not visible, UV rays are damaging to skin and eyes, as well as to any furnishings that might be exposed to it.
Most of the blind fabrics also help retain cool air. If your balcony or patio has been cooled by your air-conditioning system, for instance, these blinds can keep it cool for longer.
The degree to which different fabrics reduce heat transfer varies. It also depends on the time of day, and how much sun your balcony gets. However, most of the fabrics can reduce enough heat to make a noticeable difference, and reduce your reliance on air-conditioning. This can help you keep your indoor spaces cooler, while also reducing your energy consumption.
Such features are particularly salient in a tropical country like Singapore. By preventing or mitigating excessive heat buildup, Ziptrak® Outdoor Blinds may even lower your electricity bills.
Ziptrak® Outdoor Blinds as an investment
In sum, homeowners looking to protect their balconies or patios from heavy rain or strong winds should consider Ziptrak®. These blinds have been designed for most weather conditions, and are great for humid climates with frequent rainstorms, as experienced in Singapore.
With the many fabric options, homeowners can choose between fabrics that block all light and water, to ones that strike a balance between porosity and protection.
At the same time, innovations in design provide an enhanced experience in terms of effectiveness and durability. The unique side spline design makes Ziptrak® more effective than traditional blinds, and stronger and more durable than other track-guided systems. This can help give homeowners peace of mind, as well as save money over the long run.
For those interested in exploring Ziptrak® Outdoor Blinds further, please reach out to us at ClimaShield. Our experts can help you determine which Ziptrak® product best suits your needs or dwelling. You can also visit our showroom to see these blinds in action and check out the many fabric options, in person.