A pleated blind could be described as a venetian blind with pleated fabric instead of slats, giving a softer effect.

The pleated fabric, usually in 20mm or 25mm pleats, is attached with double sided tape (or similar) to a headrail at the top and to a bottom rail. With a standard free-hanging blind, it is opened by pulling the lift cords, the bottom rail being raised towards the top rail causing a concertina effect as it retracts. The lift cords pass through a cord lock, thus enabling the blind to be held at any height.

Fabrics

Range from translucent to opaque and blackout. They are either plain or patterned (including Jacquard or multi-coloured). Materials are polyester and cellulose-impregnated paper. Reflective, metallised finishes to the external face, flame retardant, Scotchguard and other treatments are available.

Types and operation

• Free hanging - with cord operation, usually has a weighted bottom rail which makes the blind hang better.
• Rooflight - with side channels, frame and/or perlon wires through the fabric. They may be cord, wand or hand draw operated.
• Shaped - most window shapes are easily covered using pleated blinds e.g. rectangular, circular, semi-circular.
• Dual function - three rails may be used with a different fabric in each section e.g. with the mid-rail to the headrail, a  daytime fabric is in the window and from the mid-rail to the bottom rail, a  night time fabric is viewed.

Components

• Head and Bottom Rail sections - anodised or painted aluminium.
• Cord - polyester.
• Brackets - galvanised or painted steel.
• Cord lock - locking mechanism to secure the blind in the raised position.
• Cleat - nylon used to secure cord instead of a cord lock.
• Tension wire - in perlon or PVC coated steel.

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