Roof Lantern Blinds Ultimate Guide - (Tips & Advice On Purchasing An Electric Roof Or Skylight Blind) 

Roof lantern blinds come in all shapes and sizes, and it can be difficult to know what is right for you, but here’s the good news...

In this article, we will talk you through everything you need to know about roof lantern and skylight blinds. We show you all of the great features, and even explain a little about how much they cost.

If you would like to skip the guide and see if we can offer you a discount on a roof lantern blind you can do so here...

What Is a Roof Lantern Blind?

Do roof lantern blinds exist? Absolutely! Contrary to popular belief, you can fit a blind to a roof lantern.

However, unlike blinds that go over windows, roof lantern blinds go underneath your roof lantern. 

They don’t cover the roof lantern itself but instead are fitted to the square or rectangular hole upon which the structure of the roof lantern sits.

A roof lantern blind is a retractable screen and is really neat looking. Nothing is hanging down when they are not being used. They are available in a surprising number of options, sizes and colours.

Roof lantern blinds aren’t just about controlling light levels either. They also help to regulate the noise and temperature present in a room.

What Are The Different Types Of Electric Lantern Blinds?

Generally speaking there are two main types of electric roof lantern blind that differ in material and the way they operate. These are called cellular and roller type blinds and they can both be operated with or without cords.

Cellular Roof Lantern and Skylight Blinds With Cords

One of the most common cellular electric roof lantern blind types you will see are those with visible guide cords. The reason for these cords is to prevent any sagging which is often the case with this type of fabric when installed horizontally as these types of blinds often are. They give extra support and help the blind to move along the track seamlessly.

One of the biggest benefits of this type of blind is its incredible thermal efficiency – this is because a blanket of air is trapped between the two layers of pleats, creating a thermal barrier which helps to stop the heat transfer both in and out which is great both in the summer and winter!

Here are two images of these cellular type blinds:

Cellular roof lantern blinds without guide cords

Despite the guide cords being very subtle. Customers often ask if these electric cellular lantern blinds come without cords.

The answer to this question is yes!

There is a version that works by utilising a hidden belt drive system.

The battery is hidden inside the blinds headbox, which can be accessed via a port at the bottom of the blind for it to be charged. If opting for a hard-wired power, the AC transformer is also hidden.

The cellular fabric can either be blackout or translucent and comes with brush strips which are highly effective at blocking out most of the light.

Here is a diagram of how these blinds work:

And here is a picture of the non corded cellular blind fully installed:

The maximum width for these blinds is 2200mm and the maximum length is 4600mm with the frame measuring in at 45mm.

Typically, blinds over 2900mm in length will have a join in the frame however these are not very visible once the blind is installed.

These blinds can be operated with either a remote control or a wall switch. Adaptors are also available to enable the blind motor to connect to Alexa or Google Assistant via the Tuya app.

Prestigious Roller Type Blind

The prestigious roller type blind is pricier, but is a very smart option indeed. These don’t have any guide cords showing, providing a completely clear view to the sky when your blind is open.  

They have a zipped edge which provides great support for the blind. This fabric comes with different degrees of screen – from translucent so you can see the outside world when they’re closed, to total blackout and varying degrees in-between. One of the biggest benefits of this blind is that it can provide total darkness with no light seepage.

Here are some images of these electric roof lantern roller blinds:

All of the blinds above come with a warranty of one year for all of the hardware with the motors warranty being 5 years.

You can get a quote for either of these blinds and also see if there are currently any discounts available by putting in your requirements using a simple contact form.

How Effective Are Roof Lantern Blinds?

Provided you pick a well fitted and good quality roof lantern blind, they can be really effective. The key to getting it right is to ensure that your roof lantern blind perfectly fits the aperture underneath the roof lantern.

That way, all of the light entering through the roof lantern is blocked out when you need it a little darker.

There are other ways a roof lantern blind can be effective as well...

By their nature, skylights and roof lanterns are located in the highest part of the room. Heat rises and may escape. The solution is a good quality blind. The blind can block the heat from escaping, keeping your room temperate.

It isn’t just about keeping the heat in, either. Sometimes you might want to keep the heat out. While skylights and roof lanterns let light in, direct sunlight can cause a room to become warm.

A skylight blind is a really effective way to prevent your room from becoming uncomfortably hot.

So do you actually need a roof lantern blind? We absolutely recommend you do have one and this article tells you more as to why.

Roof lantern blinds are effective for light regulation and thermal properties

What Sizes Do Roof Lantern Blinds Come In?

Roof lanterns come in all shapes and sizes, and as a result, you will need to find a blind supplier that can cater for this. As a general rule, you’ll find that blinds are available in sizes ranging from 1000mm all the way up to 5000mm in length and are available from 1000mm to 3000mm in width.

There are solutions that can cater for a longer roof lanterns, however. The best solution is the use of 2 roof lantern blinds that meet on a central bar. This solution limits the complexities that can arise from the weight of a single roof lantern blind longer than 5000mm.

Check out one of these double roof lantern blinds in action in the following video:

All these solutions, however, are only effective if the blind fits really well.

So, what’s the solution?

Custom sized blinds. Here’s how it works...

You measure the area where you intend to fit the blind and then round up to the nearest size. You specify the exact measurements in your order, and then your blinds are provided exactly cut to size.

We have a page here that explains the process really well. You can also see the various general sizes available.

 Looking for ideas? After reading this article, you’ll have plenty!

How To Measure For A Roof Lantern Blind?

You could pay to have someone come and measure your room for a skylight blind. But there is an easier option...

Do it yourself!

Here’s a quick guide as to how to measure for a skylight blind.

You will need: -

• A tape measure
• A ladder (if you have a higher roof lantern)
• A pencil
• A piece of paper

Here’s how to do it: -

1. From the top of the recess on which your roof lantern is situated, measure down by at least 25mm down, exactly where you’d like your blind to be installed.
2. At this 25mm point, using your tape measure, first, measure the width of your recess. This needs to be done at three points, at either end and in the middle.
3. Now it is time to measure the length. Be sure to measure the length of your recess on both sides.
4. Make a careful note of all of the dimensions.

Hints For Measuring for A Skylight or Roof Lantern Blind

• Be careful when using ladders. Ensure that your ladder is directly under the area you are trying to reach, and don’t be tempted to stretch over.
• Ensure you measure the correct point to point without allowing the tape measure to slope from one end to the other.
• We like to place a very small pencil dot at the 25mm point under the recess on either side. This technique ensures you measure from the same point every time.
• The motor for your skylight blind tends to sit on one of the short edges. Be sure to specify which end this is in your order. (we normally pick the end that is hidden from view)

Checkout the following quick guide on measuring for your roof lantern blind...

How Do You Open and Close Roof Lantern Blinds?

There are a few different methods to open and close roof lantern blinds. In the past, you were limited to just one option. Manually moving the blinds by hand.

This could be achieved through using a hooked pole or sometimes a screw-jack located on the blind. However, this was cumbersome and inconvenient.

Today there are far more technologically advanced solutions that allow you to move the blinds without ever having to leave your seat. You can even use your mobile phone with certain options and don’t even have to be in the room.

There are several motorised control options available to you: -

Should I Choose Automatic Or Manual Roof Lantern Blinds?

With changing light levels throughout the day, it can be expected that you may want to open and close your blinds often. It can soon become a chore if you have to get up and down, along with flailing with a pole, every time the weather says ‘sunny spells’.

Automatic roof lantern blinds are by far the superior option.

Aside from convenience, they also add a touch of class to any home.

Here's a quick video of an automatic roof lantern blind in use... 

Are Automatic Lantern Blinds Noisy?

The motor used to drive automatic roof lantern blinds is relatively small. In fact, it is so small that it can even be powered using solar energy alone.

Automatic motorised roof lantern blinds work by the motor winding in a series of cords hidden with the rails. Because blinds are relatively light and offer little resistance if properly fitted, the motor doesn’t need to be big.

Smaller motors don’t make a lot of noise at all. The loudest they’ll ever go is a gentle whir while the blind is opened or closed.

If there is ambient noise in the room, such as people talking or the television, it can often be unnoticeable, and it certainly isn’t intrusive.

Here’s a great article on how to motorise skylight blinds.

Can You Self-Fit Roof Lantern Blinds?

It is absolutely possible to self-fit roof lantern blinds. In fact, it could become the preferred option.

Hiring a professional service can start to become costly. Not only do you have to pay for the measuring and fitting, but you will probably have to arrange a visit during your free time, both for the measuring and the fitting.

By measuring and fitting your blinds yourself, you save both time and money.

Provided you have some basic DIY tools, you will easily be able to fit your own roof lantern blinds. It is surprisingly simple, and the blinds we provide come with detailed step-by-step instructions. Telephone support is also available should it be required.

As a result, you can install a roof lantern blind that will be identical to that fitted by a professional service at a lower cost to yourself!

Having said that, some people may not want the hassle of the whole process and as such, firms like ours offer a full measure and installation service that enables you to remain completely hands off and stress-free!

What Colours Do Lantern Blinds Come In?

No two rooms are the same. Some prefer a clean and modern minimalist look with lots of light colours, whereas others are based on a cosier feel.

Whichever room style you have, there will be a colour to suit. Your roof lantern blind is actually a feature in its own right, so you are going to want to pick a colour that matches the style of your room.

The good news?

There is an extensive range of roof lantern blind colours to suit any style of room.

You’ll tend to find that white is by far the most popular choice. This is because most ceilings are painted white, or a variation thereof. That said, contrasting colours can work really well to break up a larger room and make it feel slightly cosier.

Often it can be difficult to visualise how a colour will actually look in a room and whether it will match your décor.

There is a solution, however in the form of samples.

We actually can you send you 3 coloured fabric samples free of charge so you can see and feel the colours and fabrics before making any decisions. To do this, fill out this simple form:

How Much Do Roof Lantern Blinds Cost?

The short answer? It can vary.

The cost of your roof lantern blinds depends on the options you select. However, remember that by fitting yourself, you are going to be making a really substantial saving.

Why?

When you choose to use a good quality online blind provider, you should see the price you will be paying upfront. There are no ‘hidden’ charges, no fitting fees, and you certainly won’t be paying for a quote!

You will be able to select the blinds that are absolutely 100% to your own requirements. You get to decide what you want (and don’t want) without the fear of being recommended something that you don’t think is suitable by a ‘pushy’ salesman.

Some online providers require you to submit details and then patiently wait for a quote (if they ever get back to you).

It is far easier to select your options and see what you are getting, upfront and all costs included. You’ll find a great example of this here.

As we have said, the cost of roof lantern blinds can vary, as you would expect. Here are some of the areas that will influence the final price: -

Size:

As a general rule, the larger the blind, the more it is likely to cost. This is because it uses more fabric, and the rails used to guide the blind will be larger too.

Power Source: 

How your automatic roof lantern blind is powered will affect the price. The cheapest option is mains power.

While the initial outlay on solar-powered blinds is more expensive, it must be borne in mind that they will have an infinite (and free) power source once installed, so they could pay for themselves over time.

The following pictures show some power options for roof lantern blinds...

Control Options: 

How you choose to control your blinds can influence the cost. The cheapest option is a wall-mounted switch; however, it doesn’t cost too much more to opt for wireless remote control.

Smart controllers are a luxury choice, but there is no nicer feeling than sitting on the couch controlling your light levels purely by giving a voice command.

For more information on how much roof lantern blinds cost, check out our dedicated article here.

How Do You Clean Electric Roof Lantern Blinds

One of the great features of the cellular roof lantern blind with no guide cords (our newer belted system) is that the ends of the fabric sit inside the side channels. This design prevents bugs from getting trapped inside the cells, unlike other roof blinds which are open-ended.

Cleaning the Fabric
Closing the blind 3/4 of the way and using a vacuum cleaner from above is the most effective way to clean them. At 3/4 closure, the fabric can be gently moved around to clean in between the pleats.

Cleaning Aluminium Parts
The aluminium parts can be cleaned with a glass cleaner, which should not cause any damage to the powder coating.

Cleaning the Drive Belt
Using a vacuum cleaner to clean the green drive belt that is within the side channel is the recommended way to keep the blind well maintained.

Gearbox Maintenance
The gearboxes contain a silicone lubricant which will not need to be changed. The only way dust or debris can enter the gearbox is by being carried on the green drive belt, which is why we recommend you keep the drive belt clean.

Additional General Advice
Avoid using chemical cleaning agents or sand products for the cleaning. Despite being made of resistant materials, the surface of the blinds can still be damaged by aggressive cleaning agents.

Because of that, never use the following:

• Solvents
• Cleaning sands
• Cleaning pastes
• Organic thinners
• Strong alkaline cleaning detergents

Also make sure that the sponge or rag material is not too rough. It is better to use an actual sponge or rag as opposed to steel wool.
Try to clean your blinds at least twice a year – once at the end of winter and once at the end of summer, as these are the seasons when the blinds tend to accumulate the most pollen, dust especially if you tend to keep windows and doors open for the summer season.

Don’t forget regular checks! In addition to regular cleaning, inspect the blinds several times per year, focusing on the following:

• Increased noise when being opened or closed
• Uneven opening/closing
• Loose screws in the side channels
• Cord or guiding profile wear and tear

Can You Get Lantern Blinds To Match Other Blinds In Your Home

Absolutely you can!

In fact, from our experience, this is exactly what the majority of our customers want.

Fortunately most electric blind companies (including ours) offer a wide range of blinds. For example we sell motorised blinds for bi-fold windows, conservatories, orangeries and even odd shaped windows such as Apex or Gable-end windows.

The best thing to do in this scenario is to contact the blind provider to see what they can do. You never know, you may even get a discount for purchasing more than one blind! 

Final Thoughts

Lantern blinds should be simple to choose and fit without costing a fortune. Using an online provider will allow you to uniquely customise your choices to ensure that you have got the perfect roof lantern blind for your property.

Easy Lantern Blinds offers a great service with all of the features described in our article above.

With easy ordering, fitting and excellent customer support, we are the go-to choice when choosing skylight blinds you can fit yourself. Why not contact us to see what we can do for you?

Thanks for reading and we hope you find the perfect roof lantern blinds for your needs.

If you are on the look out for some more electric blinds for your home you may want to check out our guides on conservatory roof blinds, and bespoke blinds for apex windows.