Living by the sea in Folkestone brings fantastic views and fresh air. But seaside homes face some unique challenges when it comes to window coverings. Salt spray, bright sunlight, and humidity can all take their toll on the wrong type of blinds.
If you own a property in Folkestone or along the Kent coast, choosing the right blinds is about more than just looks. You need window treatments that can handle the coastal environment whilst keeping your home comfortable all year round.
Why Coastal Homes Need Special Consideration
Seafront properties deal with conditions that inland homes simply do not experience. The salty air that blows in from the English Channel contains microscopic salt particles. Over time, these particles can damage certain materials, causing corrosion and wear.
Coastal homes also tend to experience higher humidity levels. This moisture in the air can lead to condensation on windows, which creates the perfect conditions for damp and mould to develop. According to UK government guidance, damp and mould can cause respiratory problems, allergies, and asthma, with children, older adults, and people with existing health conditions being particularly at risk.
The good news is that the right blinds can actually help manage these issues whilst protecting your privacy and controlling light.
Best Blind Types for Folkestone Properties
Venetian Blinds
Venetian blinds are an excellent choice for coastal properties. Faux wood venetians, in particular, offer the elegant look of real wood without the risk of warping or damage from moisture.
The adjustable slats give you precise control over light and privacy. On bright sunny days, you can angle them to reduce glare whilst still enjoying your sea views. When the weather turns, close them fully for insulation and privacy.
Faux wood venetians are also easy to wipe clean, which is handy when salt spray leaves deposits on your windows.
Roller Blinds
Roller blinds offer a clean, modern look that works well in coastal interiors. They come in a huge range of fabrics and colours, so you can match any decorating style.
For seafront properties, consider moisture-resistant fabrics. These stand up well to the humid conditions common in coastal homes. Blackout roller blinds are particularly useful in bedrooms, blocking out early morning light during summer months.
Roller blinds take up minimal space and work brilliantly in smaller rooms or where you want an uncluttered look.
Perfect Fit Blinds
Perfect fit blinds are specially designed to clip directly into uPVC window frames. This means no drilling, no screws, and no damage to your windows.
For coastal properties, perfect fit blinds have several advantages:
- They sit within the window recess, leaving windowsills free
- The sealed fit helps reduce draughts
- They work well with tilt-and-turn windows, which are common in modern coastal properties
- Easy to remove for cleaning
Perfect fit blinds are available in roller, pleated, and venetian styles, giving you plenty of options.
Comparing Blind Options for Coastal Homes
| Blind Type | Moisture Resistance | Light Control | Maintenance | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Faux Wood Venetian | Excellent | Excellent | Easy wipe clean | Living rooms, kitchens |
| Roller Blinds | Good (with right fabric) | Good to excellent | Simple | Bedrooms, bathrooms |
| Perfect Fit | Varies by style | Good | Very easy | uPVC windows, rental properties |
| Pleated | Moderate | Good | Gentle clean | Conservatories, shaped windows |
| Vertical | Good | Good | Easy | Large windows, patio doors |
Managing Light and Heat in Seafront Properties
Folkestone enjoys more sunshine than many parts of the UK, which is wonderful for beach days but can make south-facing rooms uncomfortably warm. The right blinds help manage this.
Light-coloured blinds reflect heat and keep rooms cooler in summer. For west-facing windows that catch the afternoon sun, consider blinds with a reflective backing to reduce heat gain.
In winter, closing your blinds at dusk helps keep warmth in. This simple habit can make a noticeable difference to your heating bills and reduces the strain on your boiler.
Dealing with Condensation and Humidity
Condensation is a common issue in coastal homes. When warm, moist air meets cold window glass, water droplets form. If left unchecked, this can lead to damp and mould problems.
Good ventilation is essential. Make sure any trickle vents in your windows stay open and clear. Use extractor fans in kitchens and bathrooms when cooking or showering. Opening windows for a few minutes each day, even in winter, helps fresh air circulate.
Your choice of blinds matters too. Blinds that sit slightly away from the window glass allow air to circulate around the window, reducing condensation. Faux wood and moisture-resistant fabrics cope better with humid conditions than natural materials.
If you notice persistent condensation or any signs of mould, it is important to address the underlying cause rather than simply wiping it away. The UK government advises that damp and mould can have serious health effects, particularly affecting the airways and lungs.
Maintaining Your Blinds in a Coastal Environment
Regular cleaning helps your blinds last longer and look their best. For coastal homes, a monthly wipe-down removes salt deposits before they can cause damage.
For venetian blinds, close the slats and wipe with a damp cloth, then flip and repeat on the other side. Microfibre cloths work well and do not leave lint behind.
Roller blinds can be vacuumed on a low setting or wiped with a slightly damp cloth. Check the care instructions for your specific fabric.
Perfect fit blinds pop out of their frames easily for more thorough cleaning when needed.
Why Choose a Local Specialist?
When you are looking for blinds in Folkestone or anywhere along the Kent coast, working with a local specialist makes sense. They understand the specific challenges that coastal properties face and can recommend solutions that will stand the test of time.
A home visit allows accurate measuring and lets you see fabric samples in your actual lighting conditions. This is particularly important in coastal homes where light quality can vary significantly depending on the time of day and weather.
The VIP Shutter Co covers Folkestone and the surrounding Kent area, offering a friendly, no-pressure approach to finding the perfect window coverings for your home. With over 20 years of experience in the blinds and shutters industry, they can help you choose options that suit both your style and your coastal location.
Getting Started
Choosing blinds for a coastal property does not have to be complicated. Start by thinking about which rooms need the most attention. South and west-facing rooms often benefit from blinds with good light control. Kitchens and bathrooms need moisture-resistant options.
Consider your priorities. Do you need complete blackout for bedrooms? Maximum light control for a home office? A clean, modern look for your living space? There is a blind solution for every need.
A free home visit lets you explore your options with expert guidance. You can see samples, discuss your requirements, and get a quote tailored to your property.
