What should you choose for a new loft conversion?
There is no single answer, but the order of events matters more than the style. Loft rooms usually have roof windows, sometimes gable windows or dormers, and each can need a different solution. The best time to think about blinds is before the plastering and decorating are finished, because the position of window frames, deep reveals and power points affects what you can fit. Planning early gives you the most choice.
Before the build gets going
Think about how the room will be used. A bedroom needs darkness. A home office needs glare control. A playroom needs something safe and easy to use. Write that down, then look at where the windows are and which way they face. If you can, ask your builder which roof windows are being installed, since the make and model decide which blinds fit. Our guide to identifying your roof window explains how to check.
While the shell is going up
This is when decisions about power are cheapest. If you want motorised blinds, a mains cable or socket near the window is easiest to run before the walls are closed. Ask your electrician whether a spur or low-voltage supply could be added, even if you only choose motors later. If you prefer battery or solar control, nothing needs to be run, but you may want to think about where a charger or panel could sit. See motorised blinds.
After plastering
Once the reveals are plastered and the frames are in, the window sizes are fixed and can be measured accurately. It is best to wait until plaster has dried and any boxing-in is complete, because a measure taken before then can change. If the room still has scaffold, dust or trade equipment, that can wait too, but the surfaces should be final.
Choosing for different windows
- Roof windows. Usually dressed with blinds made to match the frame. Look at roof blinds and, for Velux windows, our page on Velux roof window blinds.
- Gable windows. The angle may need a shaped or tensioned blind. See roof and gable blinds.
- Dormer windows. Often upright, so they may take the same blinds as any other window, but check the depth of the recess.
- Small windows near a stairwell. A simple, safe, cordless option is usually sensible.
Heat and light
Loft rooms can warm up quickly in sun and feel cool in winter. Choose fabric with both seasons in mind and look at the maker's details for how it is designed to perform. If you want sleep-friendly darkness, ask about blackout designs with side channels. See our bedroom light control guide.
Furniture and fitting order
Blinds are usually fitted after decorating and flooring but before bulky furniture is delivered, because fitters need space and access. Large beds, wardrobes and desks can block a window, so it is easier to do the blinds first. Our guide to getting ready for fitting lists what to clear.
A rough order of play
- Decide how each room will be used and which windows matter most.
- Find out which roof windows are going in.
- Plan power, if you want motors, before walls are closed.
- Let plastering and decorating finish.
- Arrange the measure once frames and reveals are final.
- Have blinds fitted before furniture arrives.
What if the room is already finished?
Please do not worry. Battery and solar options mean you can still add motors without new wiring, and manual or pole control needs nothing at all. You may have fewer options for hidden cabling.
A good first step
If your conversion is still on paper, tell us early what you are planning. Timescales depend on the job, but we can help you think through what to ask your builder so the windows are ready for blinds.
Book a free measure
If you would like a second pair of eyes on the window, book a free measure and we'll talk it through with you at home, with the actual glass in front of us. Or call us on 01642 424250.
