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Glossary of Terms




A's

  • Align SlatsWhen there are two or more venetian blinds mounted side by side aligned slats are at the same level all the way across, which provides a cleaner, more unified appearance.
  • Aluminium Venetian BlindsUsed to refer to venetian blinds constructed with horizontal strips of aluminium. Popular window furnishing choice More....
  • Apron Window SillWindow moulding located below the window sill on a window frame. They can be very decorative, not all windows have them.
  • Arched WindowAn arched window has a curved top. Commonly placed over a door or another window, arches are often used for decoration and allow for additional light.
  • Austrian ShadesType of curtain / drape that has soft draping scallops which run from the top of the curtain / drape. More....
  • Automatic Cord LockGeared mechanism that allows a venetian blind to be raised and lowered to any position. More....
  • Awning ShadesAn awning shade is an exterior window furnishing, that provides protection from the weather elements. More....
  • Awning WindowsAn awning window is hinged from the top allowing the bottom to swing out giving it a canopy look. More ......

B's

  • Back CoatingAlso known as flocking, the process used to put a backing on fabrics. More....
  • Back Fixed BracketBracket fixed to the wall or frame by using the screw holes on the back of the bracket.
  • Bamboo BlindsVenetian blind made with natural bamboo wood totally sustainable and renewable, Bamboo is by far the most eco-friendly material for window blinds.
  • Basswood Timber BlindsBasswood blinds come in many different stained colours and painted finishes, when sealed with UV resistant topcoat it makes the blinds suitable for strong sunny rooms. More....
  • Bay Window Represents a multi-panel window, which consists of at least three windows set at different angles. More....
  • Beaded Blind ChainLift system that uses metal or plastic rather than standard cord material. More....
  • Bifold DoorsTwo doors hinged together in the middle, when opened these doors can create a large opening without a large door sticking out within the room. More...
  • Bistro BlindsBlinds used for outdoors, they provide protection from wind and rain whilst providing additional insulation to homes. More...
  • Black Out BlindsRefers to a fabric type, black out can block up to 100% light. Black Out has a high level of insulation and protection from harsh sunlight and damaging UV rays. .
  • Blades for Vertical BlindsAlso known as a vane or louver, it is the long vertical strip of fabric that when added together make up a vertical blind.
  • Blockout BlindsRefers to a fabric type, blockout blinds have a coating on the rear of the fabric to prevent light penetration. More...
  • Bottom Chain for Vertical BlindsPlastic chain which is used on vertical blinds, The bobble chain attaches to the bottom weights and ensures the smooth operation and uniform appearance of the blind.
  • Bottom RailRod or strip securing ladders, fabric and cords to the bottom of a blind. It can be made of metal, aluminium, wood, or faux wood. More....
  • Bottom Rail ButtonButton like piece of plastic that fits firmly into small openings located on the bottom of the rail for securing ladders in place on a blind.
  • Bottom Weights for Vertical BlindsWeights, usually injection moulded plastic which are placed in the pocket of a vertical blind louvre and stabiles the blind.
  • Box Pleat CurtainsCurtain heading style, the curtain has an inverted tailored pleat. The pleat runs the full length of the curtain giving it a uniform neat box look.
  • Braided Ladder Polyester braided ladder with rungs on which the blind slats rest.

C's

  • Cafe CurtainA type of curtain that can have two parts, a smaller curtain that sits at the top of the window and comes down less than a third of the way and a second curtain that starts around the half way part of a window. More....
  • Cafe Outdoor BlindsBlinds used for outdoors, provides protection from wind and rain whilst providing additional insulation to homes. More....
  • Carrier Clip for Vertical BlindClips used to attach the vertical vanes / blades to the track system for vertical blinds.
  • Cart An online shopping cart is an online software program, the customer is able to ‘Add to Cart’ the blind, curtain or accessory. At completion of shopping the software will calculate the total for the order including tax and shipping.
  • Cased CurtainIs a curtain heading style which is best suited to a window where the curtain will not be opened and closed frequently. More....
  • Casement WindowType of window opening, the windows can open and close like a door, swing out like an awning window More....
  • Cassette - Head BoxA cassette is a metal pelmet that finishes off the appearance of the blind. Commonly used with the roller and roman blinds.
  • Cedar BlindsCedar Blinds have naturally occurring oils which make them resistant to insects and decay. If you want long-lasting, natural-looking window coverings, Cedar Blinds are a natural choice.
  • Centre Blind BracketUsed for wider blinds, takes the load off the side brackets while supporting the middle of the blind.
  • Chain - Double Ball - Roller BlindsA series of connected links that can be used for blind control. More....
  • Chain Cleat Small bracket that affixes to the wall on which the blind chain can be hung. The chain must be affixed in a taut position adhering to the child safety guidelines
  • Chain DriveThe internal mechanism that controls the lifting and lowering of a blind. More....
  • Chain WinderChain Winder - This is the most common method of controlling the blind. The tube turns in either direction by pulling on the ball chain. More....
  • Child Safety for BlindsThe Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) have stringent child safety standards for Blind and curtain cords. More....
  • Children's BlindsUsually refers to bright and colourful blinds in a blockout fabric to prevent light penetration, which makes them ideal for children's bedroom decor and light factor.
  • Cleat Bistro BlindA bracket that affixes to the wall or post on which the cord from the blind is wound around. More....
  • Cleat for Blind CordsThe small apparatus that is attached to the window frame / architrave or wall. More....
  • Cloth Tape for VenetiansDecorative braided cloth available in colours and used instead of typical cord ladders. More....
  • Coach Bolt The large bolts used to attach the head rail of an bistro / outdoor blind to a verandah or pergola.
  • Common Head RailFeature allowing two or more blinds/shades to be mounted on the same head rail unit.
  • Common ValanceSituation in which one valance is used to cover two or more blinds.
  • Composite BlindBlinds manufactured from synthetic, wood-like material PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride) and composite wood. They are economical, durable, less likely to fade and easy to clean.
  • Conservatory BlindsCustom made roof and window blinds usually with high shading and thermal properties for glass conservatories.
  • Continuous Cord LoopLooped cord designed to come out of the head rails that is used to raise and lower the blind.
  • Control MechanismOperation mechanism, to dis-engage pull the blind down a bit and guide the blind to the new position – the spinning action pushes the 4 pawls outwards, thereby preventing the pawls from engaging. More....
  • Control SideThe side on which the controls are on your blind, the side is determined by 'Your Left or Right Hand' side. More....
  • Cord CleatSmall bracket that affixes to the wall on which the cord can be hung.
  • Cord LockFeature on the head rail that allows the blinds to be raised/lowered and then locked into position.
  • Cord TiltMechanism that operates with two cords.
  • Cordless BlindLifting feature whereby the blinds can be raised or lowered without a cord.
  • Cordless LiftIf you want to eliminate the messy look of pull cords or if you have small children and you want to create a safer solution for window treatments More....
  • Corner BlindsWhere two blinds will meet in the corner, a common terminology used for these two blinds are a through (thru) blind and a butt blind. More....
  • CrimpingThe process used to crimp the aluminium blades , this system allows the slats to close more sungly and therefore resulting in better light block out and more privacy for your windows.
  • Curtain RodA metal, plastic or wooden pole that is used to hang curtains from. More....
  • Curtain TrackA long plastic or metal track that that can incase hooks and pulley systems. The track can be fixed to the top of a window frame, wall, ceiling or firm suitable surface. More....
  • CurtainsFabric covering for indoor windows, they slide along on a track or rod and come in many varying styles – eyelet, tap top, pencil pleat, box pleat, café, French pleat and many more. More....
  • Custom Made BlindsThese blinds are created specific to the measurements required. Advantages are they ensure a perfect fit but will require a longer delivery timeframe.
  • Cut DropA ready made standard blind may require a cut from the drop of your blind to fit your entered measurements. More....
  • Cut WidthA ready made standard blind may require a cut to the width of your blind to fit your entered measurements. More....
  • Cut-OutSection of blind cut out for obstacle clearance.

D's

  • DecorStyle and mode of decoration in a room, home, office or building. More....
  • Decorative PullEnhance the look of your cordless blind by adding a decorative pull.
  • DiameterRefers to the measurement of a circle, that is taken in a straight line through the centre of the circle, used for inner tube diameter.
  • Dim-Out BlindsUsually refers to a roller blind, dim-out blinds have a coating on the rear of the fabric to prevent light penetration.
  • DIY - Do It YourselfAcronym for ‘Do It Yourself’ Can be anything from renovations, repairs, modifying and installing, work usually carried out by professionals but done by the layman.
  • Double Fullness DrapesUsing fabric that is twice the measured width of the window. More....
  • Double Pinch Pleat CurtainsCurtain heading style, the curtain top is gathered with a double pleat, created with the head tape and 2 pronged hooks.
  • Double Roller BlindA combination of two roller blinds attached in one window frame with a double roller blind bracket. More....
  • DrapesFabric coverings for indoor windows, they slide along on a track or rod and come in many varying styles and fabrics. More....
  • Drop MeasurementThe measurement of the extent of something from top to bottom - length
  • Dual BracketBracket that has provision for two roller blinds to be connected to the one (1) bracket pair. More....
  • Dual Roller BlindCombination of 2 (two) roller blinds on a dual bracket. They usually consist of 1 block out fabric blind providing 100% blockout and 1 sunscreen / translucent blind providing light filtering properties.
  • Dust FlapRefers to the flap at the bottom on an outdoor blind and bistro blind.

E's

  • Easy TipFor larger blinds, an easy tip is often used to help make operation easier. For this, the cord is kept at the same length no matter the position of the blinds.
  • Ecowood BlindsBlinds manufactured from synthetic, wood-like material PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride). They are economical, durable, less likely to fade and easy to clean. More....
  • End CapPlastic caps that secure onto the bottom rail and head rail of Metal and Cellular Shades—they can be colour coordinated to match the blind rail or head rail.
  • End LockMetal piece on the end of the head rail to help provide centre support.
  • Extendable PoleNormally made of metal, the outer pole has a larger diameter than the inner pole, which sits inside the outer pole. To get extra length the inner pole can be pulled out to the required length. More....
  • Extension - Outdoor BlindAdded to outdoor blinds when extra width is required, they are attached with zips to the side of the blind. More....
  • Extension BracketsUse the extension bracket when you need a larger clearance from the wall out to where the blind will sit. More....
  • Exterior BlindsBlinds used for outdoors, they provide protection from wind and rain whilst providing additional insulation to homes. More....
  • Eyelet CurtainsRelates to the style of the curtain, the eyelet curtain has large metal edged round holes inserted along the top of the curtain. More....

F's

  • FabricMaterial used for the blinds or curtains, fabrics can come in many styles, colours and textures. More....
  • Face fixA method of fitting the blinds to the face wall, also known as an outside mount. More....
  • Faux Wood BlindsMaterial made from wood pulp mix, vinyl, or PVC that looks like real wood they are generally at a lower price and better longevity. More....
  • FinialA decorative accent piece attached to the ends of drapery rods. They can be manufactured in either wood or metal. More....
  • Flush MountingThe blinds will sit inside the window sill and flush with the outer window frame, with no protrusions. More....
  • French DoorTwo doors hinged to either side of a door frame, the two doors meet in the middle, usually opening outwards. The doors have glass inserts.
  • Front RollThe way a roller blind opens and closes, the fabric is furthest from the window and cascades down giving a waterfall effect. More....
  • Full ServiceService provided by the manufacturer or retailer whereby measuring and installation are included in the price.
  • Fully AssembledThe blind is pre-packed at a set size with all the components included, this blind is ready for dispatch and installation

G's

  • Glide BlindAlso known as a Panel Glide, the Glide Blinds run vertically. They are ideal for larger windows and sliding doors
  • Goblet PleatA decorative curtain heading in which the fabric is stitched into narrow tubes usually lightly tacked behind the heading to hold the goblet open. More....
  • Grain FinishWhere the grain of the timber is visible through the stain, or has a grain look finish on PVC blinds.

H's

  • Head railHead rails are used in venetian and vertical blinds and is the part that contains the operating mechanism.
  • Heavy Duty TubeRoller blind inner tube used for large blinds. More....
  • Hold Down ClipsAre used to secure the base of a blind, they attach to a bracket with pins stopping the blind from moving around due to wind or if the blind is attached to a door.
  • Holland BlindIs another name for a roller blind - a form of window covering that is made from a fabric material specially treated or stiffened so that it hangs flat against a window.
  • Humidity ResistantBlinds that have been treated with either special lacquer or a blind made from PVC. More....

I's

  • Inside MountA blind or window furnishing that is fitted to the inside of a window. More....
  • InstallationThe process needed to fix and position your blinds / curtains into place. More....
  • Interlocking SlatsSlat design where the slat closure is tighter, making for better light control and privacy. More....
  • Issue FormIf you're experiencing a problem or would like to make a claim regarding products or services, you can complete an issue form. More.....

J's

  • Jalousie WindowAlso known as a louvered window, the jalousie window consists of parallel slats of glass or acrylic  More....
  • Jarrah Jarrah is a eucalyptus tree native to Australia, the finished timber has a deep rich reddish-brown colour and an attractive grain. More....

K's

L's

  • "L" BracketsPopular choice of bracket for installation to extend the blind over the window sill. More....
  • Lacquered FinishA clear or coloured coating that produces a hard, durable finish on timber. More....
  • LadderThin cords threaded through individual slats on a venetian blind. More....
  • Ladder GrommetsPlastic or rubber plugs that are used to finish off the bottom rail where the braided ladder is threaded. More....
  • Lift CordCord pulled to raise and lower the blinds. More....
  • Light ControlThe amount of light allowed into a room, this can be operated through angling of venetian blind slats or More....
  • Light FilteringA transparent fabric that reduces the light passing through it, preserving furnishings and minimizing UV rays. More....
  • LiningFabric used as a backing for curtains. Lining can provide body and fullness, light control, and privacy.
  • Linking BracketsA linking bracket is able to operate 2 blinds and to be supported by one centre bracket. More....
  • Live ChatComputer application that allows real time text chat, when a chat has been initiated, both the receiver and initiator are able to type text to each other which is visible instantly to both parties.
  • Loop LadderA unique string-loop technology that doesn't require any holes in the slats. That means when the blinds are closed they provide total privacy. More....
  • LouversCan refer to either a horizontal blind or a vertical blind, they are the slats or blades of material that can be angled to let in or block out light. More....

M's

  • Measurement WorksheetA print-out of a worksheet to record all the window measurements, making it easier to record.
  • Measuring GuideThe instructions, delivered by text, diagram or video explaining exactly how to measure your windows and doors. More....
  • Metal Tape MeasureA metal tape measure is used for getting an accurate measurement, tape measures come in either the imperial or metric system.
  • Motorised Motorised operation is where a remote control feature is included in the head of the blind. The user is able to lift, lower and tilt blinds by using the control. More....
  • MountType of mount to include inside, which is inside the window frame or outside, which is on the outside of the window frame.
  • MullionA narrow structural object between two windowpanes.

N's

  • No HolesNew window blind design that prevents light from filtering in between the slats.

O's

P's

  • Plastic Tape RollUsed for one and two-inch blinds.
  • Pleated BlindsPleated blinds have crisp, horizontal pleats forming a concertina effect, A very popular choice for loft windows or any window at an angle.
  • ProjectionDistance from the front of the window covering to the location where mounted on the wall.

Q's

R's

  • Raise & Lower Cord ControlMethod of raising and lowering a venetian blind by use of a cord control.
  • Ready Made BlindsBlinds pre-made in set sizes, customers are given the option to trim the blinds to their exact size. Advantages are low cost and fast delivery.
  • ReturnThe distance from the face of the head rail to the wall or frame. Also the valance piece that attaches to the face of the valance to completely cover the head rail.
  • Return "L" BracketUsed to attach returns to the face of the valance.
  • Roller BlindsSpecially stiffened fabric blind which simply rolls onto a tube when operated. Very popular and economical window treatment.
  • Roman BlindsSoft fabric blinds which gather into pleats when raised.
  • Roman FoldA type of fold on woven wood shades that folds up from the bottom like an accordion, back and forth on itself.
  • Route HolePunch in the slat through which the cord is routed.
  • Route lessBlinds with notches cut out of the front and back of each slat. These blinds are designed without routing holes, which means better privacy, less light, and a increase of energy efficiency.
  • RoutedCord is designed to route through the slats.

S's

  • Scallop BlindsRoller blinds which have a scalloped finish at the bottom usually with the addition of braid.
  • Side fixA method of fitting the blinds to the side walls, usually used with a recess fitting.
  • SidewinderA mechanism for operating a roller blind, located at one end of the blind and allowing easy and accurate positioning.
  • Siesta BlindsA blackout blind for a velux window.
  • SillThe horizontal, ledge like portion of a window casing Spacer/Projection Brackets- 3/8" clear plastic spacers that are used on top or behind an installation bracket to clear obstructions.
  • Skylight BlindsBlinds specially designed to cover a skylight.
  • SlatsStrips of material (aluminium, vinyl, PVC, wood, fabric, etc) that make up the main body of the blinds.
  • Spacer BlocksHardware option used to help the blinds clear trim and other miscellaneous obstacles.
  • Stop BallCircular piece joining the lift cords coming out of the head rail.

T's

  • Tape Roll SupportPlastic component to which the tilt rod is secured.
  • TasselsAttachment on the end of the cord, which is typically colour coordinated.
  • TiltControl with a wand or cord for tilting the slats of the blinds.
  • Tilt BarBar designed to move individual slats.
  • Tilt Cord ControlMethod of rotating the slats [venetian blinds] or louvres [vertical blinds] by use of a control cord.
  • Tilt Wand ControlMethod of rotating the slats [venetian blinds] or louvres [vertical blinds] by use of a control rod.
  • Top Down/Bottom UpDesign feature that allows you to open the blinds from the top down or bottom up.
  • Top fixA method of fitting the blinds to the ceiling.
  • Track SystemThis system is used for all vertical blinds, featuring a head rail on which the blinds are hung.
  • TrucksUsed on vertical blinds and is part of the mechanism within the headrail, The fabric is attached to the trucks [via hangers] which move smoothly along a guide rail opening and closing the blind
  • Two or More Blinds on One Head RailFeature that allows a person to raise one blind while keeping the other blind closed or vice versa.

U's

V's

  • ValancePart of the design that covers the head rail from the outside.
  • Valance ClipClear plastic piece used to attach the valance to the head rail.
  • VanesUsed with vertical blinds, which are the "slats" that would be found on horizontal blinds.
  • Velux BlindsA type of blind manufactured specically for Velux Windows commonly found in loft spaces.
  • Velux WindowsA range of windows specically desingned for lofts and situations where the window needs to be installed at an angle.
  • Venetian BlindsBlinds constructed of horizontal strips of wood, aluminium or PVC, Gives a modern look to home or office and a large degree of light control.
  • Vertical BlindsStrips of fabric [louvres] suspended vertically from a headrail. Immensely practical blind which comes into it's own on larger sizes.

W's

  • WandLong plastic cylinder used for tilting the slats for venetian blinds.
  • Wand TiltComponent in the head rail that turns the slats up or down. A wand is attached and fastens to this with a connector.
  • WishlistA Blinds Warehouse Wishlist is your never ending online quote allowing you to select multiple products and save them as a group to make a purchase at a later date or email them to a family member or friend.

X's

Y's

Z's