Both INTU and Perfect Fit blinds have been available in the UK for the best part of 20 years now. They are sleek, stylish and great for controlling the temperature and privacy of a room. But which type should you go for? This article will take a deeper dive into how these blinds work, and the pro’s and cons of each style.
What are Bead Fit Blinds?
Both Perfect Fit and INTU Blinds are classed as ‘Bead Fit’ blinds, but what exactly does this mean? Simply put, the brackets slot in behind the rubber seal that sits between the glass and the window/door frame, hence into the window bead.
This means that the blinds can be fitted without the need for any drilling or screwing into the frames, which is particularly desirable if you have some brand new, expensive windows or bi-fold doors that you don’t want holes in!!
There are options available should the window not have a rubber seal to allow bead fitting; please see our blinds for wooden windows article.
What are the Similarities Between the Two Systems?
So we have established that both systems are fantastic blinds that fit into the window bead, but what other similarities are there?
They are both available in pleated (see left), venetian and roller blinds and have a range of hardware colours (white, brown, silver and anthracite being the main ones). Both systems are tensioned, which means they work well on doors and tilt and turn windows, as when the doors are operated or the windows tilted they won’t swing about; they stay firmly in place. This means there is less chance of them being damaged and they are child safe.
What are the Differences Between Perfect Fit and INTU Blinds?
Perfect Fit blinds came to the market first in 2005. As you can see from the image left, they have a distinct frame that completely surrounds the blind.
This has the advantage that it cuts out the gaps around the edge of the blind improving privacy, and it reduces light spill making them more effective as blackout blinds. It helps improve the thermal performance of the blinds and it will allow warmth to be retained better within the rooms.
The frame of the blinds is extremely robust; it is made from aluminium and helps to protect the edges of the blinds should they be accidentally caught by either a person or pet walking past and damaging them. Further to this, there are more frame colours available in the Perfect Fit, allowing you to better match the hardware to your frame colour.
INTU Blinds were developed as an alternative to Perfect Fit. The key difference is that they don’t have the surrounding frame of the Perfect Fit; they have a slimline headrail and bottom rail that slides the blind up and down. This the blind are more minimalist look which some people desire, and they look less obtrusive on the windows.
Another key difference is in the operation of the venetian models; INTU have a slider in the headrail to tilt the slats, whereas the Perfect Fit has a clear wand to operate them.
A huge advantage of the INTU blinds is in the ‘Micro’ model; this has a slimmer headrail than the standard ranges, which means it sits completely within the frame recess. This is perfect for bi-fold doors as it means there are no obstructions to stop the doors fully opening. The Perfect Fit frame can obstruct the doors from folding back fully, so careful consideration of this needs heeding when making a decision.
To arrange your free choose at home appointment, or just for some friendly advice over the phone, get in touch today on 0161 241 9686. We look forward to hearing from you!
