What are the best blinds for insulation in New Zealand homes?

In this guide, we discuss:

• Blinds to keep warmth in
• Blinds to keep heat out
• Conclusion

What blinds are the best for keeping warmth in?

When your priority is to retain heat during New Zealand’s cold winters, some blinds perform better than others.

Russells consultants agree that honeycomb blinds are the top performer when it comes to insulation. How do they work? Their innovative cellular design traps air within small pockets, creating a natural thermal barrier that prevents heat from escaping. In colder regions like Otago or Southland, our consultants often recommend these blinds as the most energy-efficient choice.

Roman blinds, especially those made from thermal, lined or even thick fabrics, are also a really good option for keeping warmth in. Thermal romans are a popular recommendation from our experts for areas where frosts are common.

Roller blinds with blockout or thermal linings are the next smart choice. Their appearance might seem simple, but they can perform exceptionally well when installed properly, sealing gaps around the edges to prevent heat loss. They suit modern, minimalist home interior décors.

Venetian blinds offer limited insulation on their own because air can flow easily between the slats. However, they can still work well when paired with curtains or drapes, adding insulation to their light control feature.

Finally, vertical blinds are not designed for warmth retention. Their open structure allows air to circulate freely, which makes them less suitable for cold environments. If verticals are preferred for large windows or sliding doors, adding lined curtains over them can dramatically improve insulation performance.

Here is a table providing a quick summary of the best blinds for preventing heat loss:

What blinds are the best for keeping heat out?

If you want to prevent overheating, block the sun, and reflect heat, the right blinds can help maintain a cool, comfortable interior even on the warmest days.

Sunscreen and light-filter roller blinds are the top performers for blocking heat and glare. Their high-performance fabrics reflect sunlight and filter UV rays while still allowing natural light to fill the room. Russells consultants often recommend them for north- and west-facing windows.

Honeycomb blinds also perform well in warm conditions. The same air pockets that retain heat in winter help to block heat transfer from outside during summer, making them an excellent year-round option for regions with fluctuating temperatures such as Wellington or Nelson.

If you’re looking for a versatile solution, venetian blinds and their adjustable slats are for you. You can tilt them to reduce direct sunlight while maintaining airflow, which helps manage both light and temperature. In humid or coastal areas, our experts suggest aluminium or faux-wood venetians for their durability and resistance to warping.

Roman blinds can help reduce heat when made with reflective or light-coloured fabrics that deflect sunlight. While less adjustable than other styles, they still provide effective coverage for your windows exposed to strong sun, particularly if you combine them with sheers or sunscreen blinds.

Vertical blinds, though not a top choice for thermal control, are useful for large glass doors or living areas where ventilation is important. They allow excellent airflow while providing shade from the sun—a combination well-suited to breezy coastal homes.

Here is a table providing a quick summary of the best blinds for keeping heat out:

Conclusion

Finding the right blinds depends on the aesthetic you’re looking for, but it’s also about making your home perform better all year round. Across New Zealand’s diverse climates, the right choice can help reduce energy bills, protect your interiors, and create a more consistent indoor temperature, whether you’re keeping warmth in or heat out.

From honeycomb and thermally lined blinds in the deep South to sunscreen rollers and faux-wood Venetians in the sunny North, Russells consultants know how to tailor your window treatments to NZ local conditions.

Book your free consultation today.