Do pleated blinds actually keep heat in?

Standard pleated blinds provide some insulation, but honeycomb pleated blinds are the ones that make a real difference to heat retention. Honeycomb blinds have a cellular structure with air pockets trapped between two layers of fabric. These pockets act as insulation, similar to double glazing.

Studies by the Energy Saving Trust show that well-fitted blinds can reduce heat loss through windows by up to 25%. Honeycomb blinds sit at the top of that range because of their trapped-air design.

The effect is most noticeable on single-glazed windows and older double glazing where the sealed units have started to fail. On modern triple-glazed windows, the improvement is smaller because the glass already provides good insulation.

Fit matters as much as the blind itself. A pleated blind that sits tight inside the window recess with minimal gaps around the edges will insulate better than one mounted on the face of the wall. Side channels are available for some honeycomb blinds that seal the edges completely.

Pleated blinds also help in summer. The cellular structure blocks radiant heat from the sun, which makes them popular for conservatories and south-facing rooms.

We supply both standard and honeycomb pleated blinds. Our fitters measure precisely to minimise gaps. Measuring and fitting is included at no extra cost.