When it comes to dressing your windows, blinds are a popular choice due to the many sleek and functional options available. However, homeowners often face a crucial decision – should you purchase blinds online and handle the installation yourself, or do you get the blind experts in? Let’s look at the differences to help you make an informed choice.
The Online Blinds Purchase Route
Online retailers like Blinds-2go or 247blinds offer a vast selection of roller blinds at competitive prices. This approach is appealing for several reasons:
They’re Cost-Effective: For example, prices for a blackout roller blind typically ranges from £60-£120 per blind, which makes it a very budget-friendly option.
Good Variety: There is a wide array of fabrics, colours, and designs available. The online photos can look quite different to the real thing, but samples can be ordered and posted out to you.
Convenience: Shop on-line from the comfort of your home or business and delivery’s are usually quick.
However, this requires:
Your own Measurements: Accurate measurements are crucial. Mistakes can lead to ill-fitting blinds, wasted time and a big headache!
Self-Installation: You’ll need the tools and skills to install the blinds properly. If you’re confident with D.I.Y this could be a good option for you if you know which product is best suited for your needs.
Limited Support: Assistance is often limited to online guides or customer service calls. There are lots of online guides to help if you have the time to absorb them.
The 1-1 Personal Service
Opting for a professional service may come at a higher initial cost, a blackout roller blind typically starting from around £100 per blind, but it offers several benefits:
Expert Consultation: Professionals provide personal advice on the best solutions for your space and needs. Finding out what’s most important to you, i.e. privacy, blackout, stopping glare, preventing heat loss or gain etc. You also see the materials in the flesh and hold them to your window.
Precise Measurement: Accurate measurements ensure a perfect fit and takes away that daunting question of ‘will it fit?!’ And if there are any issues – it’s all taken care of so you don’t have the worry.
Quality Products: With our many years’ experience, we’ve learnt which products are made to last and which aren’t, and work with UK leading manufacturers such as Louvolite, for their robust warranties. All our products have a minimum of 2 years and some extending up to 25-year warranty’s.
Professional Installation: Accredited BBSA members and are committed to continually learning and developing their skills and knowledge. This ensures they’re up to date with the latest offerings and all products are fitted safely for optimal functionality and peace of mind.
Aftercare Support: In person suppliers are only a call away for ongoing support, maintenance or repairs.
A Real-Life Example
Consider the experience of one of our customers, who initially purchased blinds online. After struggling with measurements and installation, they turned to Victoria Blinds to alter and install them. Here’s what they had to say:
“Brian came and installed the blinds I had bought online. He was very professional and did an excellent job. I wish I had gone with their service from the start—it would have saved me time and hassle.”
This testimonial highlights the potential pitfalls of the DIY approach and the value of professional expertise.
Making Your Decision
When choosing between online purchases and professional services, consider the following:
Budget: Online options are more affordable upfront but may incur additional costs if issues arise.
Skill Level: DIY installation requires a certain level of skill, confidence and the right tools!
Time: Professional services save you time, effort and hassle!
Quality Assurance: Professionals offer higher-quality products and warranties, with a personal customer service, often building long-term relationships with their customers.
In conclusion, while online purchases may seem cost-effective short term, the professional route offers peace of mind, quality assurance, and long-term value. If you seek a hassle-free experience with guaranteed results, professional services are the way to go.
Whatever path you choose, our hope is that you’ll soon find and enjoy the incredible benefits having the right solar shading can bring.
