Are integral blinds worth it?
As the year draws to a close and the festive season approaches, many homeowners find themselves with a little extra time to relax, reflect, and plan ahead. Christmas downtime is the perfect opportunity to think about future home improvements, gather inspiration, and start shaping ideas for the year ahead.
If you’re replacing your windows or doors, you may have come across integral blinds as an optional upgrade. They look sleek, promise low maintenance, and are often paired with modern glazing, but many homeowners still ask the same question:
Are integral blinds worth it?
At Bedfordshire Windows, we fit integral blinds into windows, bi-fold doors, and patio doors across Bedfordshire and beyond. Here’s an honest look at how they work, their benefits, and whether they’re the right choice for your home.
What are integral blinds?
Integral blinds are blinds fitted inside the sealed double or triple glazing unit, rather than mounted on the surface of the glass. Because the blinds sit between the panes of glass, they are completely protected from dust, damage, and everyday wear.
Are integral blinds any good?
A very common question we hear is, ‘are integral blinds any good?’
For most modern homes, the answer is yes, particularly where practicality matters.
Key benefits of integral blinds:
Low maintenance: No dusting, no cleaning slats, no tangled cords
Neat, modern appearance: Perfect for contemporary homes, open-plan spaces, and minimalist interiors.
Ideal for doors: Especially popular on bi-fold and patio doors where traditional blinds can flap, tangle, or get damaged.
Child-safe by design: No loose cords or chains, making them a great option for family homes.
Protected and long-lasting: Sealed within the glass unit, so they won’t bend, stain or fade over time.
For many homeowners, integral blinds offer a cleaner, more durable alternative to standard blinds or curtains.
Are integral blinds expensive?
Another key question we get asked is ‘are integral blinds expensive?’ Compared to standard blinds, integral blinds do come at a higher upfront cost. However, it’s important to look at the bigger picture.
What affects the cost?
Size of the window or door
Number of glazed units
Manual vs motorised operation
Colour and blind type
When factored into the overall cost of new windows or doors, many homeowners find integral blinds to be a cost-effective, long-term solution.
Do integral blinds affect energy efficiency?
Integral blinds can actually support thermal performance, particularly in summer. They help to control solar gain, reduce glare in south-facing rooms, and improve comfort in large glazed areas. Because they’re sealed inside the unit, they don’t interfere with the window or door’s insulation performance.
Any downsides to integral blinds?
While integral blinds suit most modern homes, there are a few things to consider.
You can’t change the blind style later without replacing the glass unit
Repairs require a glazing specialist (not DIY)
They suit clean, modern interiors more than layered, traditional looks
That said, for windows and doors where practicality is key, these limitations are rarely an issue.
Are integral blinds worth it for windows and doors?
They’re an excellent choice if you want:
A modern, uncluttered look
Minimal maintenance
A practical solution for doors
Long-lasting blinds that won’t get damaged
Speak to Bedfordshire Windows
If you’re considering new windows or doors and wondering are integral blinds are any good for your home, our team is happy to help. At Bedfordshire Windows, we’ll explain your options clearly, help you compare costs, and recommend solutions that suit how you live.
Contact us today to arrange a consultation.
Take a look at our TrustATrader page and see over 700 reviews from satisfied customers!