What does Over Roll Or Under Roll mean for your new Roller Blinds?

So you are getting new Roller Blinds, and your Technician has mentioned that over roll or under roll is the better option for your window. But, what does that even mean?

Which way round should roller blinds go? Is there a better way over the other? There is no wrong or right answer to these questions. Similarly to the age-old debate regarding the correct way to place a roll of toilet paper on the holder. We know for a fact that there’s a strong belief as to who is correct when it comes to that. (which way is correct to you?) Regardless, whichever way you place it, it will still function the same way though. Much the same as Over rolled blinds vs Under rolled blinds.

What makes it over or under roll?

When roller blinds are assembled, a piece of fabric is attached to a top tube. Over roll refers to the way in which this fabric is attached to the top tube. Over roll means the fabric rolls over the top tube. Under roll means the fabric rolls under the top tube.

If you look at the picture you will see the under rolled blind on the left. As the blind is under rolled the fabric sits closer to the window. If the blind was over rolled like the one on the right the fabric would sit further away from the window.

Which way is right for you?

Well most of the time it all comes down to your personal preference, but there are other factors that come into play such as where the window is located, if you require privacy, and how much light you would like to allow in.

Each room and window will need to be planned out as you may be limited to a certain way depending on the following circumstances.

Privacy and Light

The first consideration is Privacy and Light. For example, if you are installing a roller blind on the front of your window in your bedroom, a face fitted over rolled blind will position the fabric roughly 55-70mm away from the window. Mounting the blind and its fabric this far away from the window will allow light to enter at the side of the blind and can also let people outside to see in your home through the gap.

On the other hand, a face fitted under rolled blind will position the fabric closer to the window, which will do a better job at blocking out the light and provide more privacy. With that said, people who work night shifts and sleep through the day, or those who like to sleep in and are sensitive to light, are better off under rolling the fabric, so less daylight enters the room while you sleep.

Obstructions and Window Clearance

Perhaps the most common reason people need to over roll a blind is to clear an obstruction on the window such as a bar on the window, sliding door handles, and window winders to name a few.

Visual Aesthetics & Coloured Backings

Having your roller blinds under rolled can also have a visual impact. Many textured fabrics have a white backing to them and when the blind is under rolled the white can be seen at the top of the tube.

Some fabric suppliers try to use a backing colour that is similar to the primary/front fabric colour. For example, a textured brown fabric may have a plain brown backing however, it’s still quite distinguishable on an under rolled blind.

There are methods of hiding this such as installing pelmet boxes. However, over roll may be a more suitable option if your blinds will not be concealed or you are not having a pelmet box.

Still not sure which one is right for you?

Don’t stress about over rolled blinds vs under rolled blinds. Decisions are not easy especially when you only plan on making them once. Feel free to call us at the office on 07 3881 2666, or drop into our workshop in Brendale. We would be happy to further discuss fabric orientation with you.

If you would like us to contact you – feel free to contact us here