Fabrics for blinds — guide through types, weights, durability

Fabric choice is the most important decision when ordering blinds — it affects price, look, function, lifespan and end-client satisfaction. This guide walks you through all fabric types, weights, durability and practical recommendations per space.

1. Main fabric types by function

Sun screen fabrics (5-10% open factor)

Semi-transparent fabrics with 5-10% open areas. Pass enough light for work but block 90-95% UV and heat. Ideal for offices — reduce monitor reflection and solar heating.

Blackout fabrics

Fully opaque fabrics with silver or black inner layer. Block 100% light — ideal for bedrooms, hotel rooms, meeting rooms with video equipment. Standard weights 220-280 g/m².

Decorative fabrics

Semi-transparent with aesthetic priority (printed motifs, textures, jacquard). Used where visual effect is key: salon, living room, hotel lobby.

Technical fabrics (special)

Anti-fungal, fire-resistant (mandatory for public spaces), antibacterial, acoustic. Choose based on regulatory requirements and use case.

2. Weights — what they mean

80-120 g/m² = decorative, light offices. 120-180 = standard zebra/sun screen. 180-250 = premium zebra, blackout. 250-350 = hotel blackout. 350+ = industrial.

3. UV and moisture resistance

UV class 4-5 for normal spaces, class 6-7-8 mandatory for south/west facades — otherwise color fades in 6-12 months. All fabrics washable at 30°C. Anti-fungal coatings for humid spaces.

4. Recommendations per space

Office (monitor work): sun screen 5-10% open factor, 180-220 g/m². Bedroom: blackout 220-280 g/m². Hotel room: fire-resistant blackout 250-320 g/m². Bathroom: anti-fungal sun screen. Terrace: ZIP technical PVC 650-850 g/m².

5. Decorator checklist

Ask client for primary function. Check window exposure. Verify space humidity. Public space = fire-resistant required. Order physical samples before large orders.

Conclusion

Right fabric choice is 70% of B2B project success. Five minutes with the client saves days of returns. Focus on function over price — cheapest fabric that doesn't solve the problem is most expensive in the long run.