A patio or garden seating area can quickly lose its appeal when rain starts blowing in from the side. During spring and summer, many homeowners want to use their outdoor space more often, but changing weather can make that difficult. This is where outdoor blinds can help, but one practical question often arises: can they be left down in the rain, or should they always be rolled up?
This is not an easy question to answer and will depend upon many factors, including the type and material of the blind, installation, and prevailing weather conditions. It may not actually be the rain that is the problem but the trapped moisture, drying, how the blind is used, and its operation. Also to be considered is how the blind will perform in windy weather.
Can outdoor blinds stay down during rain?
In many cases, high-quality waterproof outdoor blinds can be left down in light to moderate rain, especially when they are designed for exterior use. These blinds are usually made from durable, weather-resistant materials that help protect patios, balconies, pergolas, and garden seating areas from rain, glare, and changing temperatures.
However, “waterproof” does not always mean the blind should be treated like a solid wall. Outdoor blinds are built to withstand harsh weather conditions. When fine, cool with light rain and little wind is occurring, it is best to let the outdoor blind blades remain down. If the rain becomes heavy or the wind increases, it is wise to pull the outdoor blind up or secure it in place, depending on the type of outdoor blind system it is.
What happens if outdoor blinds get wet?
Getting wet should not automatically damage a properly made outdoor blind. The bigger risk comes when wet blinds are rolled up and left that way for long periods. Moisture trapped inside the fabric can lead to marks, odours, mildew, or mould, especially in warmer weather.
After rain, it is best to let the blinds dry fully before rolling them away. If they must be raised while damp, lower them again later so air can circulate and the material can dry properly.
When should you roll the outdoor blinds up?
Outdoor blinds should usually be rolled up during strong winds, storms, or severe weather warnings. Wind can place pressure on the fabric, brackets, and fixings, particularly on exposed patios or balconies. Even if the fabric handles rain well, the full system still needs to be used sensibly.
It is also worth checking the manufacturer’s guidance on the weather limits, as these will vary between different fabrics, side channels, motors, and fixing systems.
By installing outdoor blinds and using them correctly, even rainy days need not put a dampener on your use of outdoor living spaces, such as a garden or patio. Outdoor living areas can work harder in the wetter months when utilising outdoor blinds as part of a weather-smart solution.