Clear PVC vs Mesh Ziptrak Blinds: Which Is Best for Your Outdoor Area?

If you're considering outdoor blinds for your patio, pergola or alfresco area, one of the biggest decisions is whether to choose clear PVC or mesh Ziptrak blinds. Both options offer excellent benefits, but they serve different purposes.

Clear PVC blinds are ideal for homeowners wanting to protect their outdoor entertaining area from wind and rain while maintaining their views whilst realising that the PVC heats up in the sun.. Mesh blinds are better suited to those wanting shade, reduced glare and natural airflow and you retain a view the darker the mesh.

So, which is best for your home? Let's look at the differences.

Clear PVC outdoor blinds are made from a transparent, flexible material that provides a barrier against outdoor weather while allowing you to maintain visibility.

They are particularly popular for alfresco areas, patios, verandahs and pergolas where homeowners want to enjoy their surroundings without being exposed to wind and rain.

Benefits of clear PVC blinds include:

• Clear views: Enjoy your garden, pool or surrounding landscape without obstructing your outlook.

• Rain protection: PVC provides a solid barrier against rain passing through the material.

• Wind protection: Helps create a more sheltered outdoor environment.

• Year-round entertaining: Helps make outdoor spaces more comfortable during cooler months.

  
  

Mesh outdoor blinds are made from a woven sunscreen fabric designed to reduce sunlight and glare while allowing some natural airflow.

They are an excellent option for homeowners wanting to make their outdoor entertaining areas more comfortable without completely enclosing the space, as it breathes.

Benefits of mesh blinds include:

• Sun protection: Helps reduce direct sunlight and glare.

• Natural airflow: Allows air to move through the fabric.

• Daytime privacy: Can reduce visibility into your outdoor area, depending on the fabric.

• Outdoor atmosphere: Maintains natural light and a more open feeling.

  
  
  
  

1. Clear PVC vs Mesh: What's the Difference?

Feature	Clear PVC	Mesh
Visibility	Clear views	Filtered views
Rain protection	Strong barrier	Strong barrier
Wind protection	Strong barrier when suitably installed	Allows some airflow
Airflow	Limited	Good
Sun and glare	Depends on exposure	Helps reduce glare
Privacy	Limited	Some daytime privacy
Winter comfort	Helps shelter from cold air	More open and ventilated

Neither option is automatically better. The right choice depends on how you use your outdoor area and what you want your blinds to achieve.

2. Which Is Better for Australian Weather?

Australian weather can vary considerably, particularly across Melbourne, the Yarra Valley, Geelong and regional Victoria.

If your main concern is keeping wind and rain out, clear PVC is generally the better option as long as you are not facing the sun.

If you're looking to reduce afternoon sun while maintaining airflow, mesh is often more suitable.

It's also important to consider wind exposure. The Ziptrak track-guided system holds the blind within side tracks, providing stability and controlled operation. However, no outdoor blind should be assumed to withstand every wind condition.

Always follow the manufacturer's operating instructions, particularly during strong winds and severe weather.

3. Can You Combine Clear PVC and Mesh Blinds?

Absolutely. In fact, combining both materials can be a very practical solution.

Not every side of your outdoor entertaining area has the same requirements.

For example, you could install:

• Clear PVC on the side facing your garden to maintain your view and provide rain protection.

• Mesh on the western side to reduce afternoon glare.

• Another blind on the remaining side, depending on wind exposure and how you use the area.

This allows you to customise your outdoor space rather than choosing the same material for every opening.

4. How Do You Maintain Your Outdoor Blinds?

Both PVC and mesh blinds benefit from regular cleaning and correct operation.

For clear PVC blinds:

• Remove loose dust before cleaning.

• Use a soft, clean cloth or sponge.

• Avoid abrasive materials that could scratch the surface.

• Follow the manufacturer's recommended cleaning instructions.

• Allow the material to dry appropriately before rolling it up.

  
  

For mesh blinds:

• Regularly remove accumulated dust and dirt.

• Clean with a suitable soft cloth or sponge.

• Avoid harsh chemicals and abrasive cleaning products.

• Follow the fabric manufacturer's care instructions.

  
  

5. Which Ziptrak Blinds Should You Choose?

Before making your decision, consider these five questions:

1. Do you want to keep rain out? Clear PVC is generally the better choice.

2. Is airflow important? Mesh allows natural ventilation.

3. Do you want uninterrupted views? Clear PVC offers better visibility.

4. Does your outdoor area receive strong afternoon sun? Mesh can help reduce glare.

5. Do you want to use your alfresco area throughout the year? A combination of both materials may be worth considering.

If you're unsure, getting professional advice can help you choose the right solution for your property.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are clear PVC Ziptrak blinds waterproof?

PVC itself is waterproof and provides a strong barrier against rain. Overall weather protection also depends on the installation and surrounding structure.

Are mesh Ziptrak blinds waterproof?

Just about. Mesh is designed to provide shade and airflow, rather than complete rain protection. Rain will however only pass through if you put your hand on inside of blind and rain is driving at the fabric. Mostly, rain never comes through.

Can I have PVC on one side and mesh on another?

Yes. Combining the two materials is a practical way to address different weather conditions around your outdoor entertaining area.

Which is better for Melbourne homes?

Both options work well, depending on your requirements. PVC provides greater weather protection, while mesh is useful for shade and airflow.

Let KiwiFit Blinds Help You Choose

Choosing between clear PVC and mesh isn't just about selecting a fabric. It's about finding the right solution for your home, outdoor entertaining area and local weather conditions.

At KiwiFit Blinds, we have more than 30 years of experience helping homeowners find practical outdoor blind solutions.

Whether you're in Melbourne's eastern suburbs, Wonga Park, the Yarra Valley, Lake Eildon, Bonnie Doon, Geelong, Perth WA or elsewhere in our service areas, we're happy to help you explore your options.

Ready to make more of your outdoor entertaining area?

Contact KiwiFit Blinds today to arrange a free measure and quote.

Visit our Ziptrak blinds  or call us on (03) 9722 1122.