How Vertical Blinds Are Made

Headrail

• The headrail is a horizontal element that extends across the top of the window opening. The vertical slats of the blind are suspended from the headrail, and the headrail also houses the transport mechanism that moves the slats horizontally and rotates them. The headrail must be sturdy and is often made of aluminum. In cases where the headrail will remain uncovered and visible, it is typically given a decorative finish and contour. In other cases, the headrail may be covered by a valance or panel.

Transport Mechanism

• The blind's vertical slats must be able to rotate so they block light when turned parallel with the surface of the window and allow light in when they are perpendicular to the window. The slats may also be able to move horizontally so they are gathered at the side of the window to allow in more light or allow access to a door opening. In a traditional mechanism, the slats are suspended from movable trucks that slide horizontally when a cord is pulled, and when another cord is pulled the slats are rotated. Depending on the design of the mechanism, the movement of the trucks may be in one direction, or the slats may part in the center and move horizontally to both sides of the opening.

Slats

• Slats are the parts of the blind that block light. They hang vertically from the headrail to the bottom of the window opening. Slats are usually weighted at the bottom so they hang straight, and the bottom edges are often joined with a lightweight chain so the slats remain in proper alignment with one another. In less expensive blinds, the slats are commonly made from vinyl, and in more expensive blinds, slats have a fabric covering over vinyl or aluminum. Slats in high-end blinds are sometimes made from finished aluminum or wood.

Controls

• In a traditional control system, one cord is pulled to move the slats horizontally, and a second cord is pulled to rotate the slats. In other systems, slats are rotated by twisting a control wand rather than pulling a chain, and in mono control systems, a single cord is used for both horizontal and rotational movement of the slats. In some high-end blind systems, the controls are motorized.