How to install bistro blinds on stairs?

[sandilee123]

Hi, I want to install bistro blinds to my outside patio. My question is, can I cut them to go around the stair railings if I buy 2 x 3 m wide blinds or should I got for three blinds around stairs? 

 

[MitchellMc]

Hi @sandilee123,

Are you planning on hanging the blinds inside or outside the balustrading? It sounds like you are thinking of adding them outside. I think the neatest solution would be to have three blinds, one being smaller in the middle that only spans the width of the stairs. That way, it can be rolled up to allow access. Speaking of which, access unless you use a single blind for that area would prove to be difficult. You could cut slits in the two blinds to go over the rail (though the product is not designed for this, and the slits could rip) and then have the joining zipper in the middle of the staircase. You'd then need to un-zip and then zip the area on entry. The zips are designed to join the blinds, their longevity might be compromised if they are used on a regular bases as an access route.

If this is to be a permanent arrangement, perhaps you should consider installing a door in this location.

Let me tag @Nailbag and @Dave-1 to see if they have some thoughts.

Mitchell

[Nailbag]

Hi @sandilee123 I have a mate working on exactly the same project as you. After helping him prepare some of the timber workweek, we were still not going to find a solution. off the shelf. We ended up going with a blind company that will install channels on the inside posts then the blinds without zippers will be guided within the channels preventing them also from flapping in high winds. You can get a range of finishes like the traditional semi-translucent vinyl or in his case a fabric that allows you to see out but has privacy looking back in. The tiny holes allow for some airflow. Depending on your post spacings you may luck out with these from Bunnings.

Regards, Nailbag